Lunch Counter/Kahuna Overlook
The Lunch Counter/Kahuna Overlook day use area provides parking for those who wish to watch and photograph river floaters going through the famous Lunch Counter and Big Kahuna rapids, as well as direct river access for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. It is located in the Snake River Canyon, off of Highway 89 south of Hoback Junction. Three trails leave from the parking area.
- The first provides direct river access just above the Kahuna rapid.
- The second is a paved, wheel chair accessible trail that winds down to an overlook of the rapid, a great place to watch surfers and rafters, as well as a great view of the river and canyon.
- The third and longest trail winds down to just above the Lunch Counter rapids, and is a beautiful place to enjoy the river.
Facilities include one bathroom and several kiosks with area information. No potable water is available on site. This is a day use area only but dispersed and fee campgrounds are available nearby. NO trailers are allowed at this site due to confined parking. Cellular service is not available.
At a Glance
Operational Hours: | Day use only - no camping allowed. |
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Usage: | Medium-Heavy |
Closest Towns: | Jackson, Wyoming |
Water: | No potable water available. |
Restroom: | One (1) Vault Toilet |
General Information
Parking:Parking is very limited and is restricted to vehicles without trailers only. Vehicle and trailer combinations cannot turn around once in the parking area, blocking other visitors from using the area. This rule is strictly enforced so please plan accordingly.
Activities
Viewing Scenery
Great place to watch and photograph river floaters going through the famous Lunch Counter and Big Kahuna rapids.
General Info:
DirectionsStarting from the Town of Jackson, Wyoming, head southwest on United States Highway 189 (US-189) for about 13 miles. At the roundabout in Hoback Junction, take the first exit to proceed on US-26 East (US-89 South) for 17 miles, where you will see the pullout for Lunch Counter/Kahuna Overlook on the left.
Approximate travel details from the Town of Jackson, Wyoming: 30 miles, 39 minutes. Driving time from Jackson is approximately 40 minutes.
Interpretive Areas
This site has several kiosks with area information.
Boating - Non-Motorized
Whitewater kayakers and experienced paddleboarders often use this area to surf and play in the waves of this stretch, providing excellent entertainment to those observing.
General Info:
DirectionsDriving time from Jackson is approximately 40 minutes.