Montana Whitewater – Yellowstone Whitewater Rafting & Ziplining

Montana Whitewater – Yellowstone Whitewater Rafting & Ziplining

Montana Whitewater runs an 8-mile half-day Yellowstone River Run with Class II-III rapids and opportunities to swim and relax. The full-day covers 18 miles and includes a riverside picnic. Gear is included with the trip, and check-in is 30 minutes before departure in Gardiner, MT.

Private boat options; riverside picnic on full-day; gear included; proximity to Yellowstone's North Entrance

Quick facts

Duration
Half-Day, Full-Day
From price
$66
Group style
Standard rafts 8-12 (half-day); 6-10 (full-day); Private boats 2-6 or 4-6
Difficulty
Class II, Class III
Cancellation
48-hour cancellation for a full refund; within 48 hours charged the f…
Guide certification
CPR, First Aid; Swiftwater Rescue; Wilderness First Responder or EMT common
Meeting point
Montana Whitewater Gardiner office, 603 Scott Street, Gardiner, MT

✓ Book this if…

  • You want a guided Yellowstone-adjacent whitewater trip with gear included.
  • Families and first-timers seeking a mild-to-moderate Yellowstone-adjacent river run

× Skip it if…

  • You’re after extreme rapids or a self-guided trip.
  • Notify trip leader of medical conditions; consult a doctor if overweight or mobility issues
  • Trips run in light rain; thunderstorms may cancel; high winds postpone

Before you book

Do I need rafting experience or can a complete beginner do this trip?

No prior rafting experience required. Guides run the trip and provide a safety briefing; you just need to be able to paddle and follow instructions.

Is the price worth it compared to renting gear myself?

Gear is included (PFDs, helmets, wetsuits, booties, splash jackets, river shoes) plus instruction and shuttle; typical self-gear costs add up, so the all-in price is competitive for a guided trip.

What if I need to cancel due to weather—do I get a refund?

Yes. Full refund with 48-hour notice; weather-related cancellations are handled as full refunds.

Can my 8-year-old keep up on the half-day trip?

Minimum age is generally 6; kids 6–12 ride at child rates. Some trips allow non-paddlers in the raft middle; ensure your child is comfortable with water and following instructions.

Is the trip kid-friendly and safe for families?

Yes, with a safety briefing, certified guides, and gear designed for warmth and protection; half-day is typically a good starting point for families.

Sources: National Park Service — Yellowstone National Park fees, hours & conditions (retrieved 2026-07-05)Official activity information