Navigate thrilling rapids and soar through mountain views with Montana Whitewater - Yellowstone. This Gardiner, Montana outfitter specializes in unforgettable river and zipline adventures along the Yellowstone River corridor.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–6 hours depending on trip
Fitness Level
Participants should have general fitness for sitting and paddling, plus reasonable balance and mobility for entering and exiting rafts or climbing zipline platforms.
Wildlife
History
The Yellowstone River was a critical route for early explorers and remains a lifeline cutting through Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872 as the USA’s first national park.
Conservation
Montana Whitewater emphasizes Leave No Trace principles and partners with local agencies to protect the fragile river ecosystems and native wildlife habitats.
Montana Whitewater - Yellowstone
Navigate thrilling rapids and soar through mountain views with Montana Whitewater - Yellowstone. This Gardiner, Montana outfitter specializes in unforgettable river and zipline adventures along the Yellowstone River corridor.
Montana Whitewater - Yellowstone operates out of Gardiner, Montana and delivers guided river and zipline adventures featured on The Adventure Collective. The company specializes in family-friendly and high-adventure outings on the Yellowstone River, including full-day rafting, half-day and express raft trips, private boat options, inflatable kayak excursions, a multi-line Yellowstone Zipline EcoTour, and scenic floats through Yankee Jim Canyon.
All guided trips depart from Gardiner and focus on safety, expert instruction, and wildlife viewing. Certified guides lead every rafting and kayak experience; some guided trips include safety certifications and complimentary safety gear. Full-day trips provide a locally sourced lunch on the river float, while private-boat options and small inflatable rafts accommodate groups and families seeking a tailored experience.
Trip offerings cover a range of difficulty from gentle scenic paddles to class I–III whitewater, and the operator advertises options for beginners, families, and experienced paddlers. Highlights include floating the Gardiner Town Stretch, navigating rolling wave rapids on the 8-mile Paradise route, and crossing four zip lines and a sky bridge on the EcoTour.
The business emphasizes responsible outdoor recreation, with routes chosen for scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities such as elk and bald eagles. Reservations are available for private and public departures during the season. For visitors in Gardiner and Yellowstone National Park, Montana Whitewater - Yellowstone provides a convenient way to add guided river rafting or zipline adventure to a park visit. Equipment is provided for most trips, and guides brief groups on safety procedures, making trips suitable for multi-generational families and first-time rafters. Seasonal schedules vary.
Location
Gardiner, MT
Gateway to Yellowstone National Park
Tours Offered
10 trips
Family and private options
Certified Guides
Certified
Guides hold safety certifications
Trip Lengths
1–Full Day
Short to full-day excursions
Book a family-friendly raft, private boat, or zipline EcoTour in Gardiner — certified guides and safety gear included on many trips.
Arrive Early for Orientation
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your trip for gear fitting and safety briefings to ensure a smooth start.
Wear Quick-Drying Clothing
Choose moisture-wicking layers and water shoes or sandals that stay secure in the raft for comfort and safety on the river.
Bring Sunscreen and a Hat
Even on cooler days, UV exposure can be high; protect your skin during both rafting and zipline tours.
Notify of Special Needs
If traveling with children or individuals requiring accommodations, contact Montana Whitewater in advance for personalized support.
Waterproof Sandals or River Shoes
Protect feet while providing traction and comfort on wet rocks and raft surfaces.
summer
Quick-Dry Clothing
Lightweight and breathable, perfect for wet and sunny conditions during rafting and ziplining.
summer
Layered Fleece or Soft Shell Jacket
Adds warmth against cool winds during shoulder seasons.
spring|fall
Sunscreen and Polarized Sunglasses
Critical for UV protection and improved visibility on the water and at elevation.