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Experience the Yellowstone River aboard handcrafted wooden boats with Old Montana Boat Company. Discover wildlife, local history, and a peaceful flow tailored for all ages near Livingston, Montana.
Experience the Yellowstone River aboard handcrafted wooden boats with Old Montana Boat Company. Discover wildlife, local history, and a peaceful flow tailored for all ages near Livingston, Montana.
Situated along the serene flow of the Yellowstone River near Livingston, Montana, Old Montana Boat Company delivers an unmatched river experience that blends handcrafted boat craftsmanship with attentive, knowledgeable guides. The company offers luxury float trips on the longest free-flowing river in North America, providing guests with an engaging way to absorb the region’s natural and cultural layers.
What sets Old Montana Boat Company apart is its authentic approach: wooden boats, handmade by the owner, glide quietly through scenic stretches of the Yellowstone River. These boats offer stability and comfort, allowing visitors to relax fully and soak in views of steep basalt cliffs, cottonwood-lined banks, and clear, rippling waters. The guides—seasoned locals with deep ties to the area—enrich the journey with insights about local ecosystems, wildlife, and river history. Guests frequently recount spotting bald eagles, deer, and otters, while kids delight in identifying birds and learning about native plants.
Trips are designed for all ages and skill levels, making the experience inviting for families or solo travelers. The pace strikes a balance between peaceful drifting and invigorating rowing, with opportunities to hop out for wading and rock skipping. The quietude and open air create a perfect setting for reflection and connection to Montana’s wilderness heritage.
Located within Paradise Valley, a gateway to Yellowstone National Park, the company’s excursions complement broader regional adventures, from hiking nearby trails to fishing or horseback riding. With consistently glowing reviews emphasizing friendly guides like Jason, Hannah, and Sophie, Old Montana Boat Company embodies a deeply personal and unpretentious way to experience Montana’s rivers.
Whether you’re seeking a relaxing float, wildlife viewing, or an educational outing on the Yellowstone River, Old Montana Boat Company offers a thoughtfully curated escape from the bustle, placing you squarely in the heart of Montana’s outdoor spirit.
Trips fill quickly, especially in summer, so reserve your float ahead to secure your spot.
essential PriorityRiver temperatures can be cool, especially in the morning; layering keeps you comfortable.
info PriorityEnhance bald eagle and other wildlife spotting by packing a small pair of binoculars.
info PriorityConsider waterproof bags or dry sacks for cameras and electronics to protect from splashes.
info PriorityRegulate your temperature with breathable, moisture-wicking layers.
Protect your valuables and electronics from splashes and river spray.
Bring sunblock, hat, and sunglasses to shield from Montana’s strong sun.
Enhance your wildlife viewing, especially for bald eagles and river otters.
Spring offers brisk, fresh air and fewer crowds, but pack warm layers as mornings can be chilly and river currents stronger.
Summer brings warmer weather and stable river conditions, perfect for relaxed floats and spotting bald eagles soaring overhead.
Fall floats showcase golden cottonwoods and quieter waters; pack layers to stay warm as temperatures dip, especially in the early morning.
Winter offers dramatic river scenes framed by snow, but floats are generally not available due to cold and safety concerns.
Yes, trips accommodate all ages, and guides tailor the pace and information to families, making it a rewarding experience for kids as young as six months.
No experience is necessary; guides handle navigation and rowing, though guests can participate if they want.
Common sightings include bald eagles, deer, otters, and various bird species native to the Yellowstone River corridor.
Trips range from about two to four hours depending on the specific trip booked and river conditions.
Trips operate only in safe weather conditions; guides monitor river levels and weather closely to ensure safety.
Swimming is generally not part of the trip due to water temperatures and current, though wading and stopping on shore is possible.
Wooden boats on waterBald eagles in flightThe Yellowstone River landscape
Livingston, MT
easy
2–4 hours
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal exertion required though some rowing helps enhance the experience.
The Yellowstone River, running free since before the area’s designation as the first national park in 1872, has long supported local indigenous communities and early settlers alike.
Experience Needed: This natural landmark is recommended for those with some outdoor experience.