Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Yellowstone River with Montana Whitewater. Perfect for families and friends, this private raft trip offers breathtaking scenery and lively rapids just outside Gardiner, Montana.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Average physical condition required; participants should be comfortable in water and able to paddle with guidance.
Wildlife
History
The Yellowstone River has been a vital corridor for Indigenous peoples and explorers for centuries, shaping the history of this legendary region.
Conservation
Montana Whitewater emphasizes sustainable practices, ensuring the river’s health while providing thrilling adventures for future generations.
Montana Whitewater - Yellowstone
Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Yellowstone River with Montana Whitewater. Perfect for families and friends, this private raft trip offers breathtaking scenery and lively rapids just outside Gardiner, Montana.
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.
Wear quick-drying clothing
Since you'll get wet, opt for moisture-wicking and quick-drying apparel to stay comfortable throughout the trip.
Bring sun protection
Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to shield yourself from direct sun exposure along the open river sections.
Footwear with grip
Wear sturdy shoes with good traction for when boarding and disembarking the boat.
Arrive early
Getting to the launch point early ensures you have plenty of time for safety instructions and gear fitting.
Quick-drying clothing
Keeps you comfortable and dry in the spray and splashes during the trip.
summer
Waterproof sunscreen
Protects your skin from intense UV rays at open river sections.
spring/summer
Sturdy water shoes
Provides grip and foot protection when boarding on uneven surfaces.
year-round
Hat or cap
Offers additional sun protection for your face and neck.
summer