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Wild West Rafting’s Float & Soak pairs Class II & III rapids on the Yellowstone River with a relaxing dip in Yellowstone Hot Springs. Perfect for families wanting both adventure and calm in Montana’s rugged Greater Yellowstone area.
Wild West Rafting’s Float & Soak pairs Class II & III rapids on the Yellowstone River with a relaxing dip in Yellowstone Hot Springs. Perfect for families wanting both adventure and calm in Montana’s rugged Greater Yellowstone area.
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Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Wild West Rafting · Gardiner, Montana
Flowing through Montana’s iconic Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, the Yellowstone River offers a rare combination of natural intensity and scenic calm. Wild West Rafting’s Float & Soak trip invites adventurers of all ages to tackle Class II and III whitewater rapids along this celebrated river, then unwind in the mineral-rich Yellowstone Hot Springs. This half-day journey, launching from Gardiner, MT, blends adrenaline-pumping river currents with the restorative quiet of warm geothermal pools — a balanced showcase of the region’s diverse outdoor offerings.
Gardiner, the gateway to Yellowstone National Park since the park's founding in 1872, serves as the perfect staging ground for this experience. The river itself threads through rugged basalt cliffs and open valleys alive with abundant wildlife including bald eagles and mule deer, providing an immersive backdrop for those navigating its twists and waves. Wild West Rafting’s expert guides, certified in swift water rescue and first aid, lead participants safely through both thrilling rapids and tranquil sections, ensuring a dynamic yet family-friendly outing.
After about nine river miles, the float concludes at Yellowstone Hot Springs, cradled between mountain ranges along the river’s edge. Here, changing facilities allow a quick transition from wetsuits to bathing suits before guests sink into warm pools rich with therapeutic minerals. This dual-activity format offers a unique way to experience the Yellowstone region: raw river power followed by soothing geothermal waters.
This offering stands out in the local adventure scene for its accessibility and variety, appealing especially to families looking for both excitement and relaxation. The combination of river and springs showcases Montana’s geological richness and the timeless allure of the Yellowstone landscape, making Wild West Rafting’s Float & Soak a must-book for outdoor enthusiasts seeking diverse experiences within one seamless day.
moderate.
4–5 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels including families with children 40 lbs and up; basic stamina needed for paddling and soaking.
Yes, children over 40 lbs can participate, making this a wonderful family-friendly adventure.
Bring a swimsuit, towel, dry clothes, and sunscreen; wetsuits, splash jackets, water shoes, and life jackets are provided.
Meals are not included; the trip ends early enough for guests to enjoy dining in Gardiner afterward.
The trip features Class II and III rapids, offering exciting but manageable challenges suitable for beginners and families.
Yes, but we recommend waterproof or secure cases to protect your devices from splashes.
Guides monitor weather conditions closely; safety is a priority, so trips may be adjusted or rescheduled as needed.
Gardiner has been the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park since its establishment in 1872, a key gateway for over a century of visitors.
Wild West Rafting follows strict leave-no-trace practices and supports local conservation efforts to protect Yellowstone’s fragile river ecosystem.
Wild West Rafting operates in Gardiner, Montana, offering guided river and horseback experiences on and near the Yellowstone River. The company runs a range of trips including full-day and half-day drift boat floats, half-day and full-day walk‑wade fishing adventures, family-friendly scenic floats, guided one- and two-hour horseback rides, and a combined whitewater rafting and hot springs "Float & Soak" excursion. Many trips include a shore lunch, and several fishing trips provide rods, tackle, and refreshments so anglers arrive ready to fish. Horseback rides are led by experienced wranglers with horses suitable for varied rider abilities. Guides and wranglers support safety, route selection, and local knowledge of river conditions and fishing access. Wild West Rafting’s excursions serve families, anglers at different skill levels, and visitors seeking scenic floats or moderate whitewater. Trips range from short 1–2 hour rides and scenic floats to full-day outings that include multiple river miles and extended time on the water. Operating from Gardiner provides direct access to the Yellowstone River corridor and proximity to the northern entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Booking information, trip lengths, and what to bring are available through the company’s reservation process. Wild West Rafting focuses on delivering guided outdoor experiences that combine fishing, rafting, horseback riding, and relaxation while using local guides familiar with the Gardiner and Yellowstone river area. Some trips offer optional photography to capture river scenery and wildlife. Safety briefings and basic instruction are part of guided outings to ensure guests comfortably understand equipment and river conditions before departure.
Book with Wild West Rafting