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Float 18 miles of the Yellowstone River from Gardiner to Yankee Jim Canyon with a guide-served lunch. Expect splashy Class I–III rapids, scenic canyon walls, wildlife sightings, and a five-hour full-day run suitable for families and moderately fit paddlers.
Float 18 miles of the Yellowstone River from Gardiner to Yankee Jim Canyon with a guide-served lunch. Expect splashy Class I–III rapids, scenic canyon walls, wildlife sightings, and a five-hour full-day run suitable for families and moderately fit paddlers.
The river opens before you like a long, moving map — wide, high-volume water slicing through the low hills below Mammoth Hot Springs. Paddles dip in unison as the raft answers the current, and the Gardiner Town Stretch gives way to the splashy gates of Yankee Jim Canyon. Waves roll and peel; sunlight cuts bright bands across the canyon walls.
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Operated by Montana Whitewater Rafting and Yellowstone ZipLine · Gardiner, Montana
The river opens before you like a long, moving map — wide, high-volume water slicing through the low hills below Mammoth Hot Springs. Paddles dip in unison as the raft answers the current, and the Gardiner Town Stretch gives way to the splashy gates of Yankee Jim Canyon. Waves roll and peel; sunlight cuts bright bands across the canyon walls.
This full-day float runs roughly 18 miles along one of the most accessible reaches of the Yellowstone River. Geologically, the river has carved through volcanic and sedimentary layers left by ancient eruptions and glacial sculpting, exposing rust-colored benches and basalt outcrops. Culturally, Gardiner has long been the gateway to Yellowstone, a small town shaped by park traffic, ranching history, and decades of outfitting for floaters and anglers.
Expect a varied river: Class I–III rapids that are splashy but forgiving, followed by calmer pools ideal for quick swims. Guides will stop mid-route for a locally sourced lunch — a practical pause that also gives time to scan cottonwoods and rocky bars for otters and bald eagles.
Practical notes: plan to be on the water about five hours; bring layered quick-dry clothing, secure river shoes, and sun protection. The operator supplies wetsuits, booties, helmets, paddles, PFDs and a splash top. This trip suits families with children 8+ and travelers with moderate fitness. Arrive prepared for changing weather and carry a small dry bag for phone and essentials. On the Yellowstone, currents move with intent — respect the river and follow your guide’s commands.
moderate.
5 hours.
Moderate — able to sit and paddle for several hours, handle occasional powerful rapids and short swims
Children 8 years and older can participate when accompanied by an adult; guides will assess each group’s comfort with rapids.
The outfitter supplies wetsuits, booties, helmets, paddles, PFDs and a splash top, plus a boxed lunch from a local café.
The run features Class I–III rapids; bursts of paddling are required but it’s suitable for those with moderate fitness and no serious health restrictions.
The tour operates year-round in appropriate seasons and does not automatically cancel for bad weather; decisions are made by guides for safety and you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours prior.
Gardiner developed as the North Entrance to Yellowstone in the late 19th century; its history is tied to early park access, railroads, and guiding services that supported park tourism.
River sections are managed to protect riparian habitat and native fish; visitors are asked to pack out all trash and avoid disturbing wildlife or riverbanks.
Montana Whitewater Rafting and Yellowstone ZipLine operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
The river opens before you like a long, moving map — wide, high-volume water slicing through the low hills below Mammoth Hot Springs. Paddles dip in unison as the raft answers the current, and the Gardiner Town Stretch gives way to the splashy gates of Yankee Jim Canyon. Waves roll and peel; sunlight cuts bright bands across the canyon walls.
The river opens before you like a long, moving map — wide, high-volume water slicing through the low hills below Mammoth Hot Springs. Paddles dip in unison as the raft answers the current, and the Gardiner Town Stretch gives way to the splashy gates of Yankee Jim Canyon. Waves roll and peel; sunlight cuts bright bands across the canyon walls.
This full-day float runs roughly 18 miles along one of the most accessible reaches of the Yellowstone River. Geologically, the river has carved through volcanic and sedimentary layers left by ancient eruptions and glacial sculpting, exposing rust-colored benches and basalt outcrops. Culturally, Gardiner has long been the gateway to Yellowstone, a small town shaped by park traffic, ranching history, and decades of outfitting for floaters and anglers.
Expect a varied river: Class I–III rapids that are splashy but forgiving, followed by calmer pools ideal for quick swims. Guides will stop mid-route for a locally sourced lunch — a practical pause that also gives time to scan cottonwoods and rocky bars for otters and bald eagles.
Practical notes: plan to be on the water about five hours; bring layered quick-dry clothing, secure river shoes, and sun protection. The operator supplies wetsuits, booties, helmets, paddles, PFDs and a splash top. This trip suits families with children 8+ and travelers with moderate fitness. Arrive prepared for changing weather and carry a small dry bag for phone and essentials. On the Yellowstone, currents move with intent — respect the river and follow your guide’s commands.