O.A.R.S. West, Inc. • PO Box 67, Angels Camp, CA 95222 • www.oars.com • 1 (855) 541-4793 MEETING PLACE: Signal Mountain Public Boat Ramp—Grand Teton National Park MEETING TIME: 11:00 AM (Monday or Friday start) RETURN TIME: Approximately 4:00 PM – Deadman’s Bar AREA COVERED: Kayaking: Southern end of Jackson Lake Rafting: Snake River (Pacific Creek to Deadman’s Bar – 10.5 river miles) RIVER RATING: Class II AGE LIMIT: Minimum age is 4 TRIP LENGTH: 3 Days / 2 Nights BOAT TYPES: 2-person touring kayak, oar raft Grand Teton National Park and Jackson Hole are popular vacation destinations for good reason: there’s plenty to do, and Yellowstone National Park lies just an hour to the north. It’s no wonder that thousands come here each year to revel in nature’s majesty! Join us for an excursion that is off the beaten path, to places where the call of the wild is clearest. We are the only outfitter permitted to run overnight kayaking trips on the pristine Jackson Lake, ensuring a distinct, peaceful experience far away from the everyday crowds but in full view of the magnificent Tetons. Paddle your kayak through morning mist with the sun rising behind you, spot wildlife in grassy meadows and forest glens, camp at secluded sites on the lake - where we’re more likely to see a bald eagle or a moose than another human being - and hike to scenic overlooks and rushing creeks. This trip thoroughly captures the wilderness splendor of Wyoming’s pristine backcountry, making it an ideal trip for families with children of all ages. Guiding Life’s Greatest Adventures since 1969 O.A.R.S. has been in business for over 45 years, and that is no accident. Friendly and professional guides, active expeditions and some of the most incredible landscapes on earth are the framework for our success. With a genuine belief that river trips and other nature-based adventures are exceedingly worthwhile life experiences, we have committed ourselves over the years to providing the best trips available, always with an eye on improvement.
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O.A.R.S. West, Inc. • PO Box 67, Angels Camp, CA 95222 • www.oars.com • 1 (855) 541-4793
MEETING PLACE: Signal Mountain Public Boat Ramp—Grand Teton National ParkMEETING TIME: 11:00 AM (Monday or Friday start)RETURN TIME: Approximately 4:00 PM – Deadman’s BarAREA COVERED: Kayaking: Southern end of Jackson Lake
Rafting: Snake River (Pacific Creek to Deadman’s Bar – 10.5 river miles)RIVER RATING: Class IIAGE LIMIT: Minimum age is 4TRIP LENGTH: 3 Days / 2 NightsBOAT TYPES: 2-person touring kayak, oar raft
Grand Teton National Park and Jackson Hole are popular vacation destinations for good reason: there’s plentyto do, and Yellowstone National Park lies just an hour to the north. It’s no wonder that thousands come hereeach year to revel in nature’s majesty! Join us for an excursion that is off the beaten path, to places where thecall of the wild is clearest. We are the only outfitter permitted to run overnight kayaking trips on the pristineJackson Lake, ensuring a distinct, peaceful experience far away from the everyday crowds but in full view of themagnificent Tetons. Paddle your kayak through morning mist with the sun rising behind you, spot wildlife ingrassy meadows and forest glens, camp at secluded sites on the lake - where we’re more likely to see a baldeagle or a moose than another human being - and hike to scenic overlooks and rushing creeks. This tripthoroughly captures the wilderness splendor of Wyoming’s pristine backcountry, making it an ideal trip forfamilies with children of all ages.
Guiding Life’s Greatest Adventures since 1969O.A.R.S. has been in business for over 45 years, and that is no accident. Friendly and professional guides, activeexpeditions and some of the most incredible landscapes on earth are the framework for our success. With agenuine belief that river trips and other nature-based adventures are exceedingly worthwhile life experiences,we have committed ourselves over the years to providing the best trips available, always with an eye onimprovement.
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Please use this document as a resource for generalinformation on your Jackson Lake / Snake RiverCombo adventure. The information enclosed coversmost everything you’ll need to know before yourtrip. Of course, if you have questions that are notanswered in this packet, we are happy to help! Justcall 1-800-346-6277 in the USA or Canada or 1-209-736-4677 if outside the USA or Canada to speakwith an adventure consultant, or e-mail us [email protected].
SAMPLE ITINERARYWe pride ourselves in running a relaxed and flexible schedule. Every trip is different depending upon the group,other trips on the water and sometimes the weather. The following is a sample of what your trip might be like:
Days 1 – 2
On the morning of your trip we’ll gather at the Signal Mountain Public Boat Ramp, located inside GrandTeton National Park. Here you meet your guides and the others on your trip—all sharing in excitedexpectation of what’s to come. You will also be given your waterproof bags for you to pack your gear.
After your guide presents a thorough demonstration on kayaking techniques and safety procedures,we’ll be on our way. Our personal gear will be safely stowed in a motorized snout rig which will act as asupport boat - supplying lunch and carrying our gear and equipment. Depending on water and weatherconditions, we will board sleek one- or two-person touring kayaks en route to our base camp. As wemove across the lake we stop periodically to relax, have a bite to eat and revel beneath the toweringpeaks of the Teton Range. It is seven miles to our secluded campsite on Grassy Island or to Spalding Bay,a perfect jumping off point for the adventures ahead.
Spend the afternoon however you choose; finish your novel, paint a sunset or pull in a cutthroat troutworthy of tall tales. A guide will lead short paddles on the lake and perhaps to the Moran Canyon areaon shore. Here we may hike up a rushing creek to scenic overlooks of the lake, all in the shadow ofmajestic Mt. Moran.
You’ll probably find that paddling can inspire quite an appetite - and dinnertime comes none too soon.Your tastes may be less discriminating when eating in a wilderness setting, but ours are not. The menuswe serve will surprise you with their diversity, quality and presentation.
Our evenings in camp are as magical as our days, and after dinner we might enjoy a moonlight paddle orperhaps a bright and cheery campfire where we’ll gather for conversation, stories and laughter. Fallasleep under the stars of the wide Wyoming sky, content in the knowledge that it’s a rest well earned.
We’re sure you’ll agree that the more time you spend on Jackson Lake, the more comprehensive yourexperience will be. Three days will give you time to sample all the activities that this tranquil and richwilderness area has to offer. Countless miles of shoreline beg to be explored; perhaps we’ll encounter amoose drinking from the shallows, an eagle perched in a nearby aspen, or a family of deer quietlyforaging in the woods as we glide past the shore in our silent kayaks. There are hiking trails to explore,and the beautiful lake constantly beckons us to swim or fish in its sapphire waters.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Travel Arrangements 4
Meeting Place & Time 4
Trip Description 6
Weather 9
Getting Ready 9
Packing for Your Trip 10
Suggested Packing List 11
Helpful Links 13
Terms and Conditions 14
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Day 3
After a scrumptious breakfast, we’ll load up early for our return trip to Signal Mountain. Leaving ourkayaks and Jackson Lake behind, we’ll drive 20-minutes around the dam to access the river portionof our journey. We put in at Pacific Creek aboard sturdy rafts, expertly maneuvered through themaze of the Snake River’s braided channels.
Wildlife is abundant and the sightings are many as we meander across the valley floor. Look for wildtrout as we float along, but fishing is not allowed. Bear and bison, moose and muskrat, beaver andbald eagle all frequent this area with amazing regularity.
Stunning views of the Tetons, the jagged range in the Rocky Mountains, develop and change as wefollow the twists and turns of the river’s passage - each bend a new excuse to snap a few photos.
We stop for lunch on the river bank, relaxing in the most picturesque of settings: the river ramblespast, the Tetons loom majestically in a bright blue sky, cottonwoods, aspen stands and lodge polepines burst in all shades of green.
All told, we will have covered 10.5 river miles, ending our journey at Deadman’s Bar near thesouthern end of the park. Your car will be waiting for you here, having been shuttled from PacificCreek.
Included in Your Trip Cost• Skilled professional guide service• All meals from lunch on day 1 through lunch on the last day• 2 nights catered camping• 1 waterproof bag to hold your gear for the trip (approximate sealed size: 33” diameter x 29” tall). Your
sleeping bag and personal gear must fit into this one bag. Tents and sleeping pads will be storedseparately. Please note: If you rent our gear it will come already packed in your issued waterproof bag.Your remaining gear, therefore, must also fit in that one bag.
• One small waterproof bag for camera and other small items you'll want during the day (approximatesealed size: 17” tall x 9” diameter)
• Two-person tents on a shared basis (there is a $15 charge for a private tent)• Personal flotation device (PFD) which must be worn at all times on the water in compliance with safety
regulations• Camp chairs• Eating utensils, cups and plates• Highest quality kayaks and related equipment• Car shuttle from Pacific Creek to Deadman’s Bar on Day 3
Not Included in Your Trip Cost
Transportation to and from Grand Teton National Park
Pre- and post-trip accommodations and meals
Grand Teton National Park entrance fee
Sleeping bags, pads and private tents (these items may be rented from O.A.R.S.)
Insurance of any kind, including travel insurance
Alcoholic beverages
Items of a personal nature (see included equipment list)
Gratuities
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Available For RentPlease indicate on your guest registration form whether you want to rent a sleep kit or if you prefer to bringyour own.
• Sleep Kit: Can be rented for $25 per person. Sleep kits consist of a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, groundtarp, sheet, pillow and pillowcase.
• Sleeping Pad Only: The pad only may be rented for $10• 2-Person Tent: We provide 2 person tents. It is assumed you will share this tent with another person.
You can (if you prefer) have a tent to yourself for an additional charge of $15 per tent.
TRIP PREPARATION CHECK LIST
□ Purchase Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend you protect yourself, your belongings, and yourvacation with the purchase of a short-term traveler’s policy. A trip cancellation policy covers your non-refundable payments, in most cases, should you have to cancel your trip at the last minute due to illness orinjury. As with most major travel arrangements, there are cancellation fees that will apply regardless of whyor when you might need to cancel. Insurance options are available at www.travelinsure.com/cobrand/OARS
□ Trip Forms (online): Each participant will need to complete the required trip forms within two weeks ofmaking a booking. Refer to your confirmation e-mail for the link to the online forms. If you prefer to fill outpaper forms, please let us know right away. If you are reserving within 60 days of departure, your formsmust be completed immediately to ensure we can properly plan for your trip.
□ Reserve flights, shuttles and lodging: Confirm travel arrangements to and from your departure and returncities. Verify with your adventure consultant that your trip has met minimum numbers prior to bookingflights. Reserve overnight lodging for the night before and after your trip, if applicable.
□ Whitewater Orientation: To increase your safety, we expect everyone to watch our 23-minute WhitewaterOrientation video before joining us. Check out the 5-minute animated CROA Safety Video on the samewebpage. Watch at http://www.oars.com/videos/oars-whitewater-orientation or call 800-346-6277 torequest a free DVD. Please don’t leave home without watching.
□ Physical Requirements: Your outdoor adventure will be an active participatory trip. Please inform us of anyphysical limitation you may have as soon as possible. Make sure you are exercising frequently in the monthsleading up to your trip.
□ Payments: Final payment is due in our office 60 days prior to your trip (refer to your invoice for finalpayment date). Please let us know if you would like us to automatically charge your credit card on file whenfinal payment is due.
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS
Meeting Place & TimeWe will meet at 11:00 AM at the Signal Mountain Public Boat Ramp in Grand Teton National Park, 5 miles westof the Moran Junction entrance. Please note: you must pay a $20 fee per vehicle to enter the park. The permit isgood for 7 days entitling you to entrance to both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Your guides willdistribute your waterproof bags so that you can pack your gear.
Most people fly or drive to Jackson and stay in town the night prior to the trip, then drive to the meeting placethe morning the trip begins. Driving time from downtown Jackson to the meeting place is approximately 45minutes to one hour.
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Getting to Jackson, WyomingBy CarFive major highways lead into the Jackson Hole area: US 26, 89, 189, 191 and 287.
Mileage and Driving Times• Jackson to the meeting point 45 min-1 hr 38 miles• Idaho Falls, ID to Jackson 2 ½ hours 91 miles• Cody, WY to Jackson 4 ½ hours 177 miles• Bozeman, MT to Jackson 4 ½ hours 215 miles• Salt Lake City, UT to Jackson 5 ½ hours 300 miles
By AirThe closest airport is the Jackson Hole Airport (JAC). American, Delta, United and Frontier airlines all serviceJackson. There are many taxi companies, shuttle services and rental car agencies available on site at the airport.A complete list can be found on the Jackson Hole Airport’s website: www.jacksonholeairport.com.
Alltrans (800) 443-6133 / www.jacksonholealltrans.com will meet incoming flights and provide round-trip andone-way shuttle service to area properties. Advance reservations are required.
By Shuttle from Salt Lake CityMountain States Express (Alltrans) (800) 652-9510 / www.jacksonholealltrans.com provides a daily shuttleservice to Jackson from Salt Lake City.
Salt Lake Express (800) 356-9796 / www.saltlakeexpress.com/ also offers daily shuttle options between Jacksonand multiple gateway cities. Please visit their website for details.
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After Your TripIn the afternoon on Day 3 of your adventure, your trip will finish around 4:00 PM at Deadman’s Bar take-out onthe Snake River. Please note: Following the kayaking portion of your trip (ending at 9:30 AM at Signal MountainBoat Ramp), you will drive your car from the boat launch to the Pacific Creek put-in for the Snake River. Whileyou are on the river, your car will be shuttled from Pacific Creek to the take-out at Deadman’s Bar and will bewaiting for you when you get off the river.
Pre- and Post-Trip AccommodationsWe recommend that you make reservations well in advance in order to guarantee lodging. (Pre- and post-trip
lodging is not included in the trip cost)
In Grand Teton National Park Area
Signal Mountain Lodge 307-543-2831 www.signalmountainlodge.com
Jackson Lake Lodge 307-543-3100 www.gtlc.com/lodging
Snake River Lodge & Spa 855 -342-4712 www.snakeriverlodge.com
Grand Teton National Park, general www.nps.gov/grte
In Jackson
The Lexington at Jackson Hole 307-733-2648 www.lexingtonatjacksonhole.comPlease mention you are an O.A.R.S. guest for 10% discount.The Lexington does allow extended parking for guests.
Rustic Inn and Spa 800-323-9279 www.rusticinnatjh.com
Wyoming Inn 800-844-0035 www.wyominginn.com
Anglers Inn 800-867-4667 www.anglersinn.net
Central Reservations 800-329-9205 www.jacksonhole.net
In Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park, general www.nps.gov/yell
Yellowstone National Park, lodging www.yellowstonenationalparklodges.com
TRIP DESCRIPTION
Camp LifeAfter an active day on the water, we pull ashore to camp for the night. Upon arrival, our first task is to unloadthe boat using a fire line of crew and passengers to expedite the process. Individuals then collect theirwaterproof bags and locate an area on the beach to camp for the night. A crew member will give ademonstration on setting up a tent, which you’ll see is quick and easy. The guides will set up the kitchen andcentral dining/seating area with camp chairs. They will also locate a secluded area away from camp to set up theportable toilet, where privacy is assured.
As dinner is being prepared by the guides, hors d’oeuvres will be served and you will have an opportunity torelax, enjoy a drink if you wish, and reflect on the day with your fellow traveling companions.
In the morning, the first wake-up call will let you know that coffee, hot water for tea or cocoa, juice, fresh fruitand cold cereal are ready on the hors d'oeuvres table. You can fill your mug and grab a bite, then begin to packup your personal belongings and sleep gear as the guides prepare breakfast. After breakfast is served, the entirecamp will be broken down and packing will be completed. The gear will then be loaded onto the boat and we’llhead out to see what new adventures await us.
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MealsThe meals we serve are hearty and delicious, complete with fresh ingredients and a variety of foods. A typicalmorning on a multi-day trip might start with French toast, bacon, fruit, orange juice, and coffee or tea. Lunchmight be a delicious spread of cold cuts and cheeses with several types of bread, or pitas stuffed with veggiesand hummus. There are always cookies and a cooling drink to top it off. At dinner, our guides' cooking skillstruly shine—sizzling steaks or salmon, chicken enchiladas, and delicious pasta dishes are all part of theirrepertoire. Dinner generally includes a salad, and desserts are frequent. Hors d'oeuvres are a pleasant surprisebefore many meals.
Dietary RestrictionsWe need to know as soon as possible about any dietary restrictions we should consider in planning your trip. Ifyou have additional food allergies or necessary restrictions, we will do our best to accommodate your needs.However, there may be an additional supplemental menu fee ranging from $5-20 per person per day to coverour increased costs.
Beyond our standard menu, we can provide options for vegetarian, vegan and many allergy-restricted dietswithout applying a fee. However, we cannot always provide the same diversity or sophistication for restricteddiets as we do for our regular menu.
Due to the constraints of cooking for a large group, availability of ingredients in remote locations and limitedpacking space, we are often unable to cater to dietary preferences (likes or dislikes).
Beverages / AlcoholWe provide two sodas per person per day, water and lemonade in cans. Commercial outfitters in Grand TetonNational Park may not provide any type of alcohol for their guests. You are welcome to bring your own favoritebeverages, alcoholic or non-alcoholic, in non-glass containers. If you choose to bring additional drinks oralcoholic beverages, please let us know in advance. For your safety and the safety of others, the consumption ofalcoholic beverages is limited to camp.
Drinking WaterWe carry sufficient drinking water along with us to provide for your needs throughout the trip. Water jugs areaccessible in camp, at lunch time and before hikes for filling personal water bottles.
Boat Type (see photos at www.oars.com/our_adventures/river_ratings.html)
Sea Kayak— The ultimate flat water explorer—at home in open seas or inches from shore. Stealthy,quiet and quick, sea kayaks are the premier platform for wildlife viewing. From alpine lakes inWyoming to island hopping in Baja or Galapagos, sea kayaks are a low-impact way to get out on thewater. Generally two-person kayaks are provided; single kayaks may be available upon request.
Children as young as 4 may accompany the trip. Due to kayak design and the pace of our trips wemust restrict requests for single kayaks to those with a height of 4'11" or taller, and 14 years orolder. Previous paddling experience is also suggested. Smaller children must be in a double kayakwith an adult or older sibling.
A motorized snout-rig raft is used as a support boat on the lake.
Oar Raft- The O.A.R.S. flagship, oar rafts are the most stable of whitewater craft. They are inflatablerafts that your guide pilots with long oars from a center-mounted aluminum frame. Ample deckspace allows for lounging in calm stretches. (Three to five passengers)
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HikingEach day varies, but on an average you'll spend 4-6 hours a day in the kayaks. The rest of the time will be spenthiking and exploring, eating, or just relaxing in camp. While we generally plan at least one guided hike on eachtrip, we try to provide ample opportunity for the curious to explore the area at length. Because these trips are inbear country, we limit the amount of exploration clients can do on their own. Please let your trip leader know ifyou are an avid hiker, and plan to bring extra water bottles and good shoes. Remember, however, that all hikesare optional and you can choose to lie on the beach and take in a few tanning rays or read a book instead.
FishingThe fish of Grand Teton National Park are plentiful and include brown, cutthroat, Mackinaw and rainbow trout.A Wyoming fishing license is required to cast your line in the abundant streams, creeks, rivers and lakes.However, fishing is limited to camp (by the terms of our permit). You can purchase a non-resident Wyomingfishing license in Jackson or at the Signal Mountain Lodge store for approximately $14 per day. Children under14 years of age and accompanied by a person possessing a valid Wyoming license may fish free (and their fishare included in the accompanying adult's creel limit). You’ll need to provide your own fishing gear. For localfishing information call Orvis Jackson Hole (307-733-5407), Jack Dennis Outdoor Shop (307-733-3270) or SnakeRiver Anglers (307-733-3699).
The Portable ToiletWhile the idea of a river trip is appealing to most people, many are inhibited or reluctant because of modesty oruncertainty. To minimize our impacts, we carry out all solid human waste and use a portable toilet system thatis set up each day at camp in a secluded location a discrete distance from tent sites. It is essentially a toiletwithout plumbing and is available from the time you pull into camp each afternoon until you leave camp thenext day. Toilet paper and a convenient hand-washing station are provided.
We also carry a small container called the “day tripper” that can be easily accessed during the day should theneed arise. It is a personal disposable toilet, which includes an odor-proof transport bag, chemical solidifier andodor eliminator, toilet paper and oversized hand wipe.
Urination is done away from water sources on rocky or sandy areas, or on pine duff. We encourage you to carrywater with you to dilute your urine to avoid concentrating urine odors, which can attract animals.
BathingBathing is not allowed in the lake or in any of the side streams that feed into the rivers. You may want to bring asolar shower or you can borrow a bailing bucket from one of the rafts to rinse off after soaping up. Both are tobe used at least 200 feet away from the water source in an area that will absorb the runoff. We recommendusing a liquid biodegradable soap such as Campsuds or Dr. Bronner’s www.drbronner.com which can bepurchased in most stores that have a camping section and can also be used to wash clothes. You may also find agood selection at your local health food store. Disposable anti-bacterial towelettes (Coleman Swash Cloths, babywipes, etc.) can also be purchased and are especially convenient for spring and fall trips.
For Women OnlyEven if you aren’t anticipating your menstrual period, come prepared for it. You can use sandwich-sized Ziplocbaggies during the day to store feminine products while you are on the river or hiking, and you can thendiscretely dispose of the baggies when you reach camp. When possible, we recommend o.b.® tampons, whichare 1/3 the size of regular tampons, tuck discreetly into pockets and have less paper wrapping. If you use pads,be sure to bring extras. Many women suggest bringing a small supply of baby wipes. We provide some feminineproducts on most trips for emergencies.
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CamerasWe provide a small waterproof bag (17” tall x 9” diameter—approximate sealed size) to hold your camera andother items you might need during the day. While these bags are designed to be waterproof, you may wish toplace your camera in a zip-lock plastic bag or waterproof casing for additional protection. We also stronglyrecommend you take out a rider on your homeowner's policy to cover your camera—especially if it's fineequipment. Make sure to bring additional memory cards, batteries and any other extras you will need.Disposable waterproof and panorama cameras are also a fun option.
We are not able to provide a power source for recharging camera batteries. A small solar charger is a goodoption if you think you’ll need to recharge your camera battery during your trip.
Electronics & TechnologyThe use of electronic devices, especially music players, on your trip may represent an intrusion into thewilderness experience of your fellow guests. We ask that you please be mindful of the impacts to others andrespect the wilderness nature of the trip. Please bring headphones if you intend to listen to music during thetrip.
Many of our guests travel with their smartphone even though there is no cell service. On a trip like this, there isalways the risk of water damage to smartphones and other electronic devices, even when they are stowed in adry bag. If you intend to take your phone with you on the river, consider investing in a small, waterproofcontainer just for your phone.
CommunicationOnce you are on the river there is limited communication with the “outside world.” Cell phone service is notavailable. Our guides carry satellite phones which are strictly used to call out in case of an emergency situationon the river. They can call out, but we cannot call them. Periodically the trip leader will check in with our office.If you have someone that needs to contact you about an emergency at home, they should call our office (800-346-6277). If possible, we will relay the message to you. For your family at home you should define for themwhat you consider an emergency and provide them with instructions to call our office in the event one occursduring your vacation.
WeatherYou may want to check one week prior to your trip for an up-to-date weather forecast. We recommend thefollowing website: www.wunderground.com for weather in Grand Teton National Park, WY.
Average Air Temperatures & PrecipitationAir (Day) °F Air (Night) °F Precipitation Water Temperature (Day) °F
Physical RequirementsOur primary goal is for you to have an enjoyable experience. The nature of the trip is such that it involves somephysical exertion and potential exposure to the elements, including cold water, heat, sun, wind and rain. Wehave experience accommodating people with a wide range of physical disabilities and/or health conditions.However, individuals who are overweight or lack conditioning can endanger themselves, other guests and the
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guides. Please consult your doctor if you have medical or health conditions that could impact your ability toparticipate in this outdoor adventure. In general, trip participants must be able to:
Wear a Type III Coast Guard approved personal floatation device (maximum chest size of 56 inches)
Climb in and out of the kayaks multiple times each day
Navigate uneven terrain in camp and on hikes
Carry your own dry bags (20 – 30 lbs) from the boats to your camping location and back
Self-rescue by swimming to a boat or to shore in the event of an involuntary swim
Self-rescue by climbing into a boat with the help of another person in the event of an involuntary swim
Physical PreparationDue to the physical nature of this trip, we highly recommend that you engage in regular exercise for at leastthree months prior to departure to ensure preparedness. No gym membership required! Simple exercises likepush-ups, sit-ups and squats go a long way to improving core fitness. Start with these exercises and do threesets of ten repetitions each, three to four times per week. Aerobic training is also easy to accomplish withoutexpensive equipment. Take 30–40 minutes two to three times a week and go for a brisk walk, easy jog or bikeride around town. If you have access to a pool, lake or the ocean, swimming is obviously an ideal choice foraerobic exercise. It provides a full-body work-out and is training that may come in handy in the event of aninvoluntary swim in a whitewater rapid. It is important to push yourself in the months leading up to your trip byincreasing your strength training repetitions and the pace of your aerobic training. Getting in shape willcertainly add to your enjoyment of the trip.
PACKING FOR YOUR TRIP
ClothingDuring the day—Start with a swimsuit and/or swim trunks and synthetic or merino wool shirt as a base layer.Additional layers, like long underwear, fleece and rain gear, can be added and subtracted depending on theweather and temperature.
In camp— When the weather is warm, lightweight cotton pants/skirt or shorts and shirt make great camp-wear.Those so inclined may enjoy wearing a cotton skirt or sarong on summer evenings. Temperatures aroundJackson Lake are much cooler than the rest of the country, even during the middle of summer and can be quitecool in the early mornings and late evenings. A dry set of synthetic long underwear is the perfect base layerunder long pants and a fleece sweater.
FootwearDuring the day— Your feet will get wet as you get in and out of the kayaks. We recommend wearing shoes thatyou don’t mind getting wet or sport sandals with an ankle strap. For cold weather trips, wool or neoprene socks,or wetsuit booties will help keep your feet warm.
In camp—We recommend wearing shoes in camp due to risk of kicking a rock buried in the sand, or stepping ona sharp stick. The athletic shoes or light hikers you bring for hiking can double as your camp shoes. It’s nice toput on dry socks and shoes after a day on the water. Flip flops or “Crocs” are OK for wearing in camp only.Please note: If you buy new shoes or sandals for the trip, make sure you break them in first!
HeadwearDuring the day—Wide-brimmed hats are a good choice for sun protection.
In camp—When the weather is cool or cold, you’ll want a beanie-style hat to wear in camp. They are theperfect remedy for bed-head as you rise from your sleeping bag to secure your morning cup of coffee or tea, or
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for retaining warmth in the evening hours after the sun sets.
Hot Weather TripsDuring peak summer months, conditions may be hot and sunny. These trips require less gear than spring or falltrips, but thoughtful packing is still required. Protection from the sun and heat will be critical to your enjoymentand health while on the lake or the river and during side hikes. To protect yourself from the sun’s rays, considerbringing long-sleeved shirts and pants. Lightweight, nylon ‘safari’ shirts are readily available and of-ten comewith a UPF rating for reflecting harmful ultraviolet rays. These shirts pack small, light, are quick drying and oftenoffer ventilation to help keep cool. Another way to keep cool is with long-sleeved cotton shirts. They can besoaked in the water and worn in the raft or carried on a hike for later use. This method of evaporative cooling isvery effective. Bandanas are another useful item that can be used in this manner.
Summertime camp-wear should be made of cotton and be loose fitting. A combination of shorts/skirts and alightweight top are ideal for staying cool on hot afternoons.
To Avoid Being Cold (It is generally always cold at night.)Synthetic or merino wool long underwear is a must-have on river trips. It can be worn under shorts, rain gear, T-shirts, etc., then stripped off when the chill of the morning has worn off. It keeps you warm even if it’s wet(which can happen easily), dries quickly, and it’s compact enough to be stuffed into your small waterproof bagor daypack after you take it off. It can be layered under your waterproof rain jacket and pants. In cooler weathera rain jacket and pants work better than a wetsuit, because the jacket and pants can be put on when it’s cold, orwhen you’re going through whitewater, then easily taken off when the sun comes out and it’s hot. Some folksfind that wetsuits don’t work as well as they are tedious to put on and take off. During early season or high-water trips we do provide wetsuits for paddlers. Be aware that cotton items, once wet, do not insulate; onlysynthetic and wool materials will keep you warm during cool, wet weather.
Something warm for your top & bottom: You need to be prepared for inclement weather. Bring a good fleeceor wool top and bottom, along with a warm hat and gloves. You’ll want to double up on your synthetic layers sothat you’ll have a set to wear in the kayak and a set of warm, dry clothes for camp.
Rain GearRain gear protects you from rain, wind and the splash while paddling. It is one of the essential items that allpassengers should have no matter what time of year you are traveling. Look for jacket and pants that are 100%waterproof, not just water resistant. A hooded jacket is recommended as well as good secure closures aroundyour head, neck, wrists and ankles. Do not bring a rain poncho as it cannot be worn under your PFD.
Sun ProtectionProtecting yourself from the sun should be taken very seriously. A hat, sunscreen, lip balm and sunglasses are amust. In many cases, a long-sleeve shirt is the best method for preventing sunburn on your upper body. Light-weight long pants may also be appropriate to protect your legs. Be sure to bring a good hat that offers fullcoverage, such as a wide-brimmed hat.
Bugs & MosquitoesBugs and mosquitoes can be very heavy at certain times of the year in Grand Teton National Park. Please comeprepared with insect repellent. Long sleeved shirts and pants may also be desirable.
Sleeping GearYou can either bring your own sleeping bag, pad and ground tarp, or you can rent our sleep kit. If you arepurchasing your own bag for the trip, keep in mind that a synthetic-fill bag rated to 20°F (the normal range foran all-around, "three-season" bag) is recommended.
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SUGGESTED PACKING LIST
Equipment and Personal Items:□ Sleeping bag, pad, sheet liner, small pillow, 5x7-foot tarp. Sleep kits including these items may be rented
for $25. We suggest a synthetic-fill bag rated to 20 degrees Fahrenheit.□ Backpack: It should be large enough to carry water, lunch and camera, as well as a warm layer of
clothing (750–2000 cu. in)□ Water bottle: 1 heavy-duty and minimum 1-liter capacity with a carabiner to attach it to the boat□ Headlamp or flashlight□ Plastic bags: 1 large trash bag and assorted zip-loc bags□ Sunglasses (preferably polarized) with securing strap and a spare□ Small, quick-drying towel□ Toiletries, including biodegradable soap (such as Campsuds or Dr. Bronner’s)□ Sunscreen and lip protection: waterproof & SPF 30 or higher□ Moisturizing lotion or cream□ Insect repellent□ Personal first aid kit (Band-aids, antibiotic ointment, ibuprofen, moleskin, eye drops, etc.)□ Spare pair of glasses and/or contacts□ Cash for gratuities
Footwear:□ River shoes or sandals□ Athletic shoes or light hikers□ Hiking socks : 1 pair for every 2 days
Clothing:□ Long-sleeved shirt: lightweight and light color for sun protection□ Long pants: lightweight and light color for sun protection□ Shade hat or visor with securing strap and a spare□ Rain jacket & pants: waterproof (not water resistant). A hooded jacket with secure closures is
recommended□ Swimsuit / Trunks: 2-piece suits recommended for women. Tankinis are a great option□ Underwear: quick-drying□ Quick-dry shorts: 1 pair□ Quick-dry T-shirts/tops: 1-2□ Synthetic long underwear top & bottom: 1 set light to mid-weight (optional for July and August trips)□ Camp clothes: comfortable and appropriate for season. Cotton recommended for hot weather trips
Additional Essentials for cold weather in Wyoming:□ Extra pair of dry footwear for camp□ Wetsuit booties and/or neoprene socks□ Fleece top & bottom□ Warm hat and gloves: synthetic or wool□ Extra set of synthetic or merino wool long underwear top and bottom
Optional Items:□ Sarong: useful for sun protection/changing clothes□ Day pack/Hydration pack□ Bathing wipes: pre-moistened disposable towels□ Ear plugs
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□ Binoculars□ Camera and accessories□ Splash jacket and pants□ Lightweight cord and clothespins for drying clothes□ Sketchbook, notebook and pen, paperback book□ Bandana□ Feminine Urinary Device (for women only)
Packing Your GearAt the pre-trip meeting each person will be given one large waterproof bags (approximate sealed size: 33”diameter x 29” tall). This bag will be your “checked luggage” and will only be accessible in camp. Tents and sleeppads are stowed separately. Please note: If you rent our gear it will come already packed in your issuedwaterproof bag. Your remaining gear, therefore, must also fit into that one bag. We also provide a smallwaterproof bag for day use where you can keep items such as raingear, camera, sunscreen, lip balm, etc.(approximate sealed size: 17” tall x 9” diameter). The bags are cylindrical in shape and pack from the top. Pleasepack light, and keep in mind that river attire is casual: comfort, convenience and boat space take precedenceover style. However, staying warm and dry is also important, so do not skimp on warm layers.
Extra LuggageIf you have extra luggage it should be locked in your car or stored at your hotel.
ValuablesWe recommend that you leave your valuables at home. For personal items like wallets, purses and cell phones,we recommend putting them in a zip-lock bag at the bottom of your waterproof bag with your clothing.
GratuitiesIf you feel your guides have provided a very special trip for you, you may leave a gratuity with the trip leader tobe shared among the crew. This tip is entirely at your discretion, though we recommend a general tippingguideline of anything between 5% and 10% of trip cost. If you plan to tip, remember to bring a personal checkor cash—ATMs are hard to find in the backcountry!
Something VoluntaryIn reviewing your statement, you’ll note a $1/person/day donation to Waterkeeper Alliance, a non-profitconservation organization dedicated to preserving and protecting fishable, swimmable and drinkable waterwaysworldwide. One-hundred percent of these funds go directly to worldwide watershed protection and yourcontribution is tax-deductible. Please notify our office if you would prefer to delete the donation from yourbalance.
If you enjoyed your trip, consider donating to the O.A.R.S. Foundation. This organization is a not-for-profit 501(c) 3 organization with the express goal of providing opportunities for young people to experience the magic ofthe outdoors. Visit www.oarsfoundation.org to learn more about how a tax-deductible donation can changeyoung lives for the better.
HELPFUL LINKSShop for the latest in top-quality gear for your trip www.oars.com/OARStoreRecommended reading list reading.longitudebooks.com/O89012O.A.R.S. practices Leave No Trace outdoor ethics www.lnt.org
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TERMS & CONDITIONS
Reservations and Deposits
A $125/person deposit is required at the time of reservation. The balance is due 60 days prior to departure.
Cancellations and Refunds
If you find it necessary to cancel your trip, please notify us as soon as possible. The cancellation fee after you’ve made yourdeposit can range up to the entire trip cost, based upon the number of days prior to your trip that we receive your cancellationnotice. We regret we cannot make exceptions for personal emergencies. For this reason, we strongly urge you to investigatetrip insurance (see Insurance).
Cancellations 60 days or more prior to your trip earn a full refund less a $100/person fee. Cancellations 59 days or less prior toyour trip are not refundable.
If you transfer from one trip to another within the same season, there is a $50/person charge up until 60 days before the trip.Transfers made after this time will be treated as cancellations.
Medical
Under most circumstances, if you are of an adventurous spirit and in reasonably good health, you should have no problemenjoying an O.A.R.S. West, Inc. trip. People with medical conditions, including pregnancy, should have a physician’s approvalbefore taking an adventure travel trip.
Insurance
We strongly recommend that you protect yourself, your belongings and your vacation through the purchase of a travelinsurance plan. They cover your non-refundable payments in most cases, should you have to cancel your trip due to illness orinjury—yours or that of an extended family member—even at the last minute. No one wants an expensive helicopter tobecome necessary, but if you need to be evacuated or if an immediate family member dies and the local management agency isrequested to notify you by helicopter, the helicopter expenses will be your responsibility. You can protect yourself throughTravel Insurance Services or with alternative insurance. Call Travel Insurance Services at 800-937-1387 or visit their website atwww.travelinsure.com/cobrand/OARS. Evacuations can be prolonged, difficult, and expensive. Personal belongings andcameras are carried entirely at the owner’s risk, and O.A.R.S. West, Inc. accepts no responsibility for lost, damaged, delayed orstolen property.
Acknowledgement of Risk
Everyone is required to sign a standard liability release (or Acknowledgement of Risk) form before the trip, acknowledgingawareness that there are inherent risks associated with the trip. Due to the nature of the activities, a condition of yourparticipation is that you will sign this form and return it to our office before the trip begins. Anyone who refuses to sign theform will not be allowed to participate, and consistent with O.A.R.S. West, Inc. cancellation policy, there will be no refund of thetrip fees at that time.
Responsibility – An Important Notice
O.A.R.S. West, Inc. and cooperating agencies act only in the capacity of agent for the participants in all matters relating totransportation and/or all other related travel services, and assume no responsibility however caused for injury, loss or damageto person or property in connection with any service, including but not limited to that resulting directly or indirectly from actsof God, detention, annoyance, delays and expenses arising from quarantine, strikes, theft, pilferage, force majeure, failure ofany means of conveyance to arrive or depart as scheduled, civil disturbances, government restrictions or regulations, anddiscrepancies or change in transit over which it has no control. Reasonable changes in itinerary may be made where deemedadvisable for the comfort and well being of the participants, including cancellation due to water fluctuation, insufficientbookings (this trip requires a minimum of 4 guests), and other factors. There is risk in whitewater rafting, particularly duringhigh-water conditions. Rafts, dories and kayaks do capsize. You could be swept overboard. Your guide will make every attemptto assist, but you must be strong and agile enough to “self-help” and “float-it-out” without further endangering yourself orothers. We reserve the right not to accept passengers weighing more than 260 pounds or with a waist/chest size exceeding 56inches. We may decide, at any time, to exclude any person or group for any reason we feel is related to the safety of our trips.We are experienced at accommodating people with various disabilities. Please give us an opportunity to make you feelwelcome. We need to discuss any special requirements ahead of time. On advancement of deposit the depositor agrees to bebound by the above recited terms and conditions. Prices subject to change without notice.
