Yellowstone River Wild & Scenic River wilderness guide
Wild & Scenic River · MT

Yellowstone River Wild & Scenic River

The Yellowstone River, famed for its untamed beauty, is a designated Wild & Scenic River offering unparalleled opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

Wild & Scenic River15,0004+ Trails

Designation

Wild & Scenic River

Total Wilderness Area

15,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Yellowstone River Wild & Scenic River

The Yellowstone River, famed for its untamed beauty, is a designated Wild & Scenic River offering unparalleled opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Yellowstone River Wild & Scenic River is renowned for being the longest undammed river in the contiguous United States, stretching over 670 miles from its source in the Rocky Mountains through Montana. The river's protected segments offer a crucial habitat for diverse species such as grizzly bears, bald eagles, and the Yellowstone cutthroat trout. Historically, the river has been a vital waterway for indigenous peoples and was later explored by Lewis and Clark in the early 19th century. Key recreation opportunities include world-class fly fishing, scenic float trips, and riverside camping. Notable landmarks along the river's course include the dramatic Yellowstone Falls and the richly biodiverse Yellowstone River State Park. The river's free-flowing nature continues to draw visitors who appreciate its pristine landscapes and abundant wildlife.

Field Guide · Wild & Scenic River
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Yellowstone River Wild & Scenic River

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The stunning vista of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone✦ Opportunities to spot rare Yellowstone cutthroat trout✦ Historic significance as part of the Lewis and Clark expedition✦ Prime location for photography of wildlife and landscapes
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Yellowstone River Wild & Scenic River

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Yellowstone River Wild & Scenic River
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Yellowstone River Wild & Scenic River
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Yellowstone River Wild & Scenic River
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Yellowstone River Wild & Scenic River
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Yellowstone River Wild & Scenic River
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Yellowstone River Wild & Scenic River
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Yellowstone River Wild & Scenic River.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No permits or fees required for river access

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Yellowstone River Wild & Scenic River

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Carbella Recreation Site

A small riverside campground popular with anglers and those on paddling excursions.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Yellowstone River Wild & Scenic River

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Chico Hot Springs, Montana
⌖ 8.87 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Chico Hot Springs, Montana

Chico Hot Springs offers a perfect blend of natural hot springs relaxation and easy access to Montana’s outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, and skiing near Yellowstone. Ideal for travelers seeking mountain serenity and wildlife views.

Late Spring through Early Fall for hiking and fishing; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Pray, Montana
⌖ 11.05 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pray, Montana

Pray, Montana offers a serene adventure hub on the Yellowstone River, perfect for fly fishing, hiking, rafting, and horseback riding amid the stunning Absaroka Mountains.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Emigrant, Montana
⌖ 11.66 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Emigrant, Montana

Emigrant, MT offers a peaceful basecamp for fly fishing, hiking, and backpacking near the Yellowstone River and Absaroka Mountains. Ideal from late spring to early fall, it’s perfect for travelers seeking natural beauty and fewer crowds.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Mammoth, Wyoming
⌖ 19.14 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mammoth, Wyoming

Mammoth, WY is your doorstep to Yellowstone's wild beauty. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and witnessing geothermal wonders. It's a perfect spot for adventure seekers looking to explore the great outdoors.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Livingston, Montana
⌖ 29.18 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Livingston, Montana

Livingston, Montana charms with its frontier spirit and access to outdoor adventures. Perfect for hiking, fly fishing, and exploring Yellowstone, it offers a unique outdoorsy getaway.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Silver Gate, Montana
⌖ 32.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Silver Gate, Montana

Silver Gate is a rustic, adventurous entryway to Yellowstone National Park. Savor outdoor tranquility with thrilling adventures like hiking, wildlife watching, and cross-country skiing amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Summer and Winter
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Yellowstone River Wild & Scenic River

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Hands-On Montana: Skillful, Short-Form Adventures at Sage Lodge
ADVEXPEDITION
Pray, Montana
HikingADV Bookable

Hands-On Montana: Skillful, Short-Form Adventures at Sage Lodge

A suite of guided, one-hour (and select two-hour) activities—everything from axe throwing to guided nature walks—run by the Sage Lodge Activity Team; this guide explains what to expect and how to book.

HikingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip