Gardiner: Full Day Raft Trip on the Yellowstone River+Lunch

Taking a full-day rafting trip on the Yellowstone River offers a perfect mix of adventure, scenery, and relaxation. This 5-hour guided tour departs from Gardiner, Wyoming, starting at the National Park boundary and covers 18 miles of river. It features class II-III rapids, a scenic lunch stop sourced from a local café, and an exhilarating paddle through the famous Yankee Jim Canyon. The trip is ideal for those seeking an active outdoor experience amid Montana’s rugged wilderness, with the safety and comfort of provided gear and professional guides.

While the trip length and group size (typically 8-12 people) provide a manageable and engaging experience, it is important to note that children under 8 years and pregnant women are not suited for this adventure. The tour is praised for its excellent guides, stunning scenery, and great value, making it a popular choice for outdoor lovers.

Key Points

• Full-day adventure covering 18 miles of the Yellowstone River, lasting about 5 hours.
• Guided trip with professional guides ensuring safety and fun.
• All necessary rafting gear—wetsuits, splash tops, and booties—are provided free of charge.
• Includes a riverside lunch sourced from a local café, served midway through the trip.
• Scenic stops in Paradise Valley and the Yankee Jim Canyon section offer stunning views and rapid paddling.
• Suitable for ages 8 and up, but not for pregnant women.

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Starting at Gardiner’s Riverfront and Transport Logistics

The adventure begins at the riverfront office on Main Street in Gardiner, where check-in occurs. After outfitting everyone with gear, a short shuttle takes guests across town to the water’s edge. The office staff provides a safety briefing to prepare everyone for the river conditions, emphasizing dos and don’ts for a safe and enjoyable trip.

The coordination between the check-in, gear fitting, and shuttle ensures a smooth start. The meeting point at coordinates 45.0343, -110.7095 is centrally located, making it easy for visitors already in Gardiner to access the tour.

What’s Included in the Rafting Gear and Preparation

All participants receive wetsuits, splash tops, and booties at no extra cost, helping everyone stay comfortable during the splashy rapids. The tour recommends arriving in a bathing suit or quick-drying synthetic layers to wear under the gear.

Guests can store dry clothes and valuables securely in cubbies and bins at the office. The staff also manages car key storage, making it simple to transition from land to water without worry. The gear preparation and safety instructions contribute significantly to the positive, relaxed atmosphere on the water.

The Scenic Route: From Gardiner Town to Paradise Valley

The trip starts near the boundary of the Yellowstone National Park, providing an immediate sense of immersion in nature. The morning paddling takes place on the Gardiner Town Stretch, gradually floating into the beautiful Paradise Valley.

This section combines gentle float with splashy Class I-III rapids, offering moments of excitement amidst breathtaking scenery. The river’s flow reveals swimming holes perfect for a quick dip or relaxing break, adding to the overall enjoyment of the trip.

Midway Lunch: Local Flavors on the Riverside

A highlight of this tour is the lunch stop around the halfway point. The guides serve lunch sourced from a locally owned café, offering options like PB&J, ham, turkey, or veggie sandwiches.

This meal provides a relaxed break, allowing paddlers to refuel while enjoying the scenic riverside surroundings. The casual picnic setting enhances the sense of connection both with the landscape and fellow adventurers, making it more than just a meal but a part of the experience.

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Yankee Jim Canyon: The Most Scenic and Exciting Part

The afternoon unfolds with a paddle through the Yankee Jim Canyon, often described as the most stunning and fun section of the Yellowstone River. This stretch features class II-III rapids and spectacular canyon walls, offering plenty of opportunities for exciting paddling and taking in the dramatic scenery.

This part of the trip is frequently praised for its beauty and thrill, with the fast-moving rapids providing an adrenaline rush. The canyon’s scenic grandeur makes it a favorite among paddlers, and the guides excel at making the experience both safe and exhilarating.

Duration, Pacing, and Group Size

The 18-mile trip spans approximately 6 hours door-to-door, including check-in, gear fitting, transportation, and the water portion itself. The group size usually falls between 8 and 12 participants, balancing social interaction with individual attention from guides.

The pacing of the trip is leisurely enough for enjoying scenery and wildlife spotting, yet energetic during the rapids. The water levels influence timing slightly, but the overall experience remains well-paced and manageable for most fitness levels.

Photography and Souvenirs: Capturing the Moment

Professional photographers are on hand during the trip to capture action shots and scenic views. These photos are available for purchase at the end of the tour, providing an easy way to remember the adventure.

Plus, guests can browse apparel and souvenirs at the office afterward, making it simple to take home a piece of the experience. This service adds value to the trip by letting participants relive the highlights and share their stories.

Booking, Cancellation, and Payment Flexibility

The trip offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving travelers flexibility to adjust plans. Booking is straightforward, with the option to reserve now and pay later, ensuring convenience and peace of mind.

This approach makes it accessible for spontaneous plans or uncertain schedules, and the live English-speaking guides ensure clear communication throughout the day.

Suitability and Recommendations

This full-day Yellowstone River rafting is best suited for adventurers aged 8 and above who are comfortable in water. It is not recommended for pregnant women due to the physical nature of the rapids.

Participants should be prepared for physical activity and variable water conditions, but the gear, guides, and safety instructions make it accessible and enjoyable. The experience combines adventure, scenery, and relaxation, appealing to those looking for an active, scenic day outside.

Final Thoughts on the Gardiner Full Day Raft Trip

This tour delivers a balanced mix of adrenaline and tranquility, with stunning views of Yellowstone’s wilderness and expert guides to ensure safety and fun. The lunch and photography options add extra value, making it a complete day of outdoor enjoyment.

While the length and physical demands may not suit very young children or pregnant women, most outdoor enthusiasts will find this trip a rewarding way to experience Yellowstone’s natural beauty from the river.

This tour offers excellent value, with professional guidance, beautiful scenery, and memorable moments that make it worth considering for a Yellowstone adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be at least 8 years old to participate.

Are wetsuits provided?
Yes, wetsuits, splash tops, and booties are included free of charge.

How long is the entire trip?
The door-to-door duration is approximately 6 hours, with 5 hours on the water.

Do I need to bring anything?
Guests should wear a bathing suit or quick-drying layers under the provided gear and can store valuables in the office.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included in the price but is sourced locally and served midway in the trip.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

What is the group size?
Typically, 8-12 participants per trip.

Is this trip suitable for pregnant women?
No, it is not recommended for pregnant women.

Do guides speak other languages?
The tour is conducted in English.

How do I see the photos?
Professional photographers capture moments during the trip, and photos are available for purchase after the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby