easy
2–3 hours
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required.
Experience the Yellowstone River’s wild beauty with Rowdy River Guides’ Daily Scenic Float Trip near Livingston, MT. Perfect for families and nature lovers, this gentle river journey offers wildlife sightings, awe-inspiring geology, and intimate local stories.
The Yellowstone River courses through Paradise Valley near Livingston, Montana, laying out a compelling stage for waterborne adventure. Rowdy River Guides offers a Daily Scenic Float Trip that invites visitors to slow down and absorb this rugged landscape from a raft. This isn’t just a float—it's a dynamic journey along one of Montana’s most storied waterways, where geology, wildlife, and history merge.
Starting just outside Livingston, a gateway city to Yellowstone National Park, the trips glide through towering cottonwoods and open grasslands punctuated by volcanic rock formations shaped by millennia of volcanic activity. Guides like Rowdy and Austin bring decades of local knowledge, weaving stories of the valley’s evolution, Native American history, and the river’s role in regional ecology.
The experience balances relaxation with discovery. Guests frequently spot bald eagles perched high or soaring overhead, osprey diving sharp into water for fish, and deer lapping at the shore. Stops along the way allow for breaks on river islands where kids can splash and adults can stretch. The calm flow of the Yellowstone here provides a gentle introduction to river travel appropriate for all ages and skill levels.
Rowdy River Guides stands out as a cornerstone in Livingston’s outdoor scene by offering personalized service — from easy booking and shuttle logistics to tailored guidance that highlights unique sights. Photographers appreciate the perfect positioning of the raft for capturing the valley’s distinct light and expansive views.
For anyone seeking a serene yet engaging adventure on Montana’s longest free-flowing river, this float trip is a must. It complements broader Yellowstone adventures and showcases Paradise Valley’s quieter, elemental side.
These guided floats are popular, especially in summer, so secure your spot early.
Protect your equipment while capturing bald eagles and valley vistas on the river.
Temperatures can vary quickly on the water; layering helps keep comfortable.
You'll step off the raft on river islands with uneven terrain, so sturdy shoes are recommended.
Paradise Valley is part of the ancestral lands of the Crow Nation and later became a key route for settlers and explorers venturing toward Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872.
Local guides emphasize Leave No Trace principles to protect water quality and wildlife habitat along the Yellowstone River corridor.
Protects against river spray and unexpected weather changes.
spring|summer|fall specific
Critical for sun protection during extended exposure on the water.
summer|fall specific
Allows comfortable footing when stepping into shallow river areas or on rocky shores.
summer|spring|fall specific
Enhances wildlife viewing, especially for spotting eagles and osprey.