Flat Creek originates in the Gros Ventre Mountains east of Jackson Hole and flows approximately 20 miles westward through the National Elk Refuge before entering the town of Jackson and eventually joining the Snake River. This spring creek-like tributary maintains consistently cold, gin-clear water due to its lake outflow origins and minimal tributary input, creating a unique fishery within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.

The creek's most distinctive paddling opportunity is the "Flat Creek Town Float," a popular intermediate-level run through Jackson that begins behind Dairy Queen on North Cache and concludes at Smith's grocery store, with alternative exits at Snow King Avenue Bridge or Garaman Park near Crabtree Lane. This urban float requires active paddling and attention as boaters navigate shallow sections, rocks, and willow-lined banks. The highlight is a man-made drop nicknamed "Serious Faces" near the end of the run, which provides excitement and occasionally flips unprepared paddlers. The float typically takes 1-2 hours depending on water levels and stopping frequency.

Paddling is best from late spring through midsummer when flows remain adequate. By late summer and early fall, water levels drop significantly, requiring paddlers to walk or drag their craft through shallow sections. Winter flows are insufficient for boating. Tubing is extremely popular among locals during warm weather, with participants often linking multiple tubes together for social floats.

The upper section of Flat Creek within the National Elk Refuge is closed to public access except for a limited fly-fishing season (August 1 to October 31), protecting critical cutthroat trout spawning habitat and minimizing disturbance to the Jackson elk herd that winters in the refuge. This 3-mile stretch offers world-class technical fly fishing but no paddling opportunities.

Flat Creek supports a healthy population of native Snake River fine-spotted cutthroat trout, some exceeding 20 inches, along with brook trout. The riparian corridor attracts moose, mule deer, bald eagles, trumpeter swans, and various waterfowl. The National Elk Refuge section provides winter range for thousands of elk from November through April.

Paddlers must respect private property boundaries along much of the lower creek, staying in their watercraft when floating through private land. The town float passes through residential areas where streamside access is limited to designated public points. All users should practice catch-and-release fishing and pack out all trash to preserve this unique urban waterway.