The Snake River Is An Iconic Part of Wyoming’s Remarkable Landscape

If you've ever traveled through western Wyoming, you've seen the Snake River. Did you know, though, that it's one of the longest rivers in the country? Only a dozen other streams are bigger, and it's the 10th largest watershed in the country, too. While the Snake winds through several states and its watershed covers Washington, Oregon, Utah, Nevada, and Idaho, this wild and scenic river is forever associated with Wyoming.

There is perhaps no more iconic image of Wyoming landscape than the sight of the Snake River as it winds its way through the Teton Range in Western Wyoming.

This sight was first brought to American attention by none other than Ansel Adams, the photographer of the west whose work helped millions of people see the beauty of Grand Teton National Park and Wyoming.

While the Snake River Overlook may be the most popular view, the landscape surrounding the Snake River offers plenty of incredible overlooks.

Oxbow Bend, also in Grand Teton National Park, showcases a panoramic view of the wild and scenic Wyoming river.

Mount Moran gazes over the bend, setting a backdrop for photographs that define the Cowboy State.

Even if you visit in the middle of the night, you'll be treated to a remarkable show of stars reflecting on the water.

Humans aren't the only ones who appreciate this stunning body of water! It's a top spot to find elk, moose, bears, and beavers.

In fact, if you head to Schwabacher's Landing early in the morning, it's pretty likely you'll find a moose in the flats!

The wild water makes for a world-class rafting destination, and paddlers from all around the globe come to conquer the canyons, drops, rapids, and turns of this beautiful water.

Outside of the park, the Snake river winds down through Hoback and southwest Wyoming before turning toward Idaho and continuing its journey, where it finally ends in the Columbia River

Next time you find yourself in western Wyoming, take a minute to appreciate the Snake River overlooks in Grand Teton National Park and through the Hoback area and you'll come to appreciate our landscape more than ever.

To learn more about planning a rafting trip down the Snake River, read This All-Day Float Trip Will Make Your Wyoming Summer Complete.