Montana Whitewater offers trips on what we believe are the three best rivers near Yellowstone National Park for commercial Rafting. Let us help you choose the best trip for your group!

Deciding Factors:

Location/Convenience – Are you closer to one or another?
Remember, there is no rafting available within the boundaries of Yellowstone Park. All raft trips occur just outside the park.
Yellowstone River office is in Gardiner- right at the North Entrance of Yellowstone.
Gallatin River Office is 60 miles north of the West Entrance of Yellowstone -  near Big Sky, MT.
Madison is near Ennis,MT but also meets at the Gallatin office.

Level of Challenge – What is your groups comfort zone?
The Yellowstone is fun but not extremely challenging. Great for kids, first timers, school groups and many others. You can paddle or ride along. If you are staying closer to the Yellowstone, but want more challenge, don't forget about our small boat or inflatable kayak trips.
The Gallatin has options for less challenging or more challenging. The more challenging "Lower" includes the Mad mile - a legendary stretch of rapids – the longest in the area. You are expected to paddle. The less challenging stretch is known as the “Upper." It includes fun, short class III rapids that offer a thrill for all ages.
The Madison has some challenging rapids and some flat water. The Kitchen Sink is a solid class IV. You can paddle or ride along.  People who are uncomfortable traveling on the class IV rapid can walk a nice trail around and watch the boats go through.

Scenery – What will I see around me?
The Yellowstone runs through a wide, high desert valley with grand mountain views all around. This generally means lots of warm sun, wave rapids, and the potential to view wildlife from the river. The road is nearby, but not apparent during most of the trip.
The Gallatin winds through a rocky, narrow canyon. It has dramatic scenery with rock outcroppings and thick pine forested mountains rising directly from the shore. The road is nearby this premier stretch of whitewater.
The Madison is the most remote and scenic as it is a wilderness run with no roads next to the river. It runs through a narrow, rocky canyon full of wildlife and beautiful views to take in. The lunch stop is a great place to sit back and enjoy the wilderness setting.

Price – What is your "fun budget" for this trip?
The Yellowstone is least expensive, the Gallatin a little more and the Madison is the premier trip. There are no hidden charges for wetsuits or taxes. Kids 12 and under receive a discounted price on most all our trips so the whole family can enjoy the river.

Our Gallatin Paddle and Saddle trip includes a top notch trail ride up Hellroaring Trail in the Gallatin National Forest and an unforgettable raft ride down the Gallatin River. The Trail ride is not suitable for children under 10 or people who are scared of riding. Beginners are welcome but must be adventurous!