Snake River, Wyoming

You love to surf because you dig the vibe, enjoy the feel of the water, and get to play with something called Sex Wax. Well congratulations, because now you can surf just about anywhere. That’s right—you don’t even need the ocean.

We’re talking about river surfing, the latest board sport to slap the water. We actually first saw dudes tearing up a current in downtown Munich, about ten years ago. But now river surfing has become more mainstream, so to speak, and folks are ripping rivers around the U.S. Check out this video from our friends at Body Glove, shot at the Lunch Counter Rapid on the Snake River in Jackson Hole, WY.

Basically, with river surfing, instead of paddling out to the waves, you locate the safest stop to ‘drop in’ to the river, float downstream until you hit the desired current, and then quickly turn around, paddle like mad against the current, and then get up and enjoy the wave. You’ll have as long as you want, too. Unlike surfing the ocean, when you’re riding a river, you stay in the same place.

One important note: Before launching into your local rapids, check to see if there are any river surfing groups, to locate the most rideable currents. (Colorado has the Colorado River Surfing Association, for example.) You also might want to wear a helmet, too, because there are rocks under them waves. Other than that, knock yourself out. Surf until the break of dawn.

Don’t miss the video!