How to Raft Near Yellowstone Park
- 1). Choose a base. River trips depart west and north of Yellowstone National Park from Gardiner, Montana, and run the Gallatin, Madison and Yellowstone rivers. South of the park, tours are based out of Jackson, Wyoming, and run the Snake River.
- 2). Choose a river. On the Snake River, you'll paddle through 16 miles of the pristine Snake River Canyon with rapids up to class III difficulty. The Yellowstone River, the longest free-flowing river in the continental United States, offers class II to IV rapids, as well as scenic float trips. For the most challenging stretch of river in the region, run the Gallatin's Mad Mile. Looking for something truly wild? Head to the Madison River, which winds through the pristine Beartrap Canyon Wilderness Area. Only a few outfitters have permits here, so solitude is ensured on these class IV rapids.
- 3). Choose an outfitter. Guided trips provide transportation, all equipment, and in some cases, wetsuits and meals. Some take along inflatable kayaks, known as "duckies," which are a fun way to paddle on your own for a while. Choose from half-day, full-day and multi-day tours.
