Whitewater and Horseback Adventures with Yellowstone Raft Company

Gardiner, Montana, serves as a gateway to Yellowstone National Park’s rugged, untamed landscapes. Here, the Yellowstone Raft Company crafts authentic outdoor experiences combining powerful whitewater rafting with scenic floats and horseback rides. Situated along the Yellowstone River, this operation navigates some of the most thrilling and accessible rapids on the fringes of one of America’s oldest national parks.

The company's range of trips includes everything from adrenaline-charged 18-mile whitewater journeys to gentle 2-hour scenic floats, perfect for families with children. These options offer visitors a chance to feel the pulse of the river as it rushes past towering basalt cliffs and thick stands of lodgepole pine, while also soaking up views of distant peaks etched against endless Montana sky. For those who want to extend their experience beyond the river, Yellowstone Raft Company offers horseback rides that traverse nearby trails through open meadows and cottonwood groves. Their horseback packages even combine paddling and riding into deluxe combo days, blending perspectives of the Yellowstone ecosystem from both water and land.

Many visitors praise guides like Ryan and Buddy, known for their expertise, storytelling, and willingness to engage guests of all ages. Whether it’s sharing life stories or explaining local history, these guides create an atmosphere that goes beyond a typical excursion.

Yellowstone Raft Company’s commitment to quality and safety, paired with their reasonable prices compared to inside-park options, makes them a standout for travelers seeking genuine, accessible adventure. Their private raft tours and cowboy cookout dinners add layers of appeal, offering personalized experiences that connect guests deeply with Montana’s wild core. For anyone visiting Gardiner, these trips provide a dynamic way to engage with Yellowstone’s diverse waterways and landscapes.