South Bates (Nickerson Bridge) offers a boat ramp and restrooms, making it an accessible put-in for paddleboarders and kayakers on the Teton River's calm, slow-moving section. The 3.

5-mile float to Bates Bridge takes approximately 2 hours and is ideal for beginners and families, with a small parking lot that experiences moderate to heavy use on weekends and mornings.

From this southern access point, paddlers can enjoy wide views of the Big Hole Mountains and Snake River Range while watching for wildlife including moose, otters, and birds of prey.