Gentle Rapids, Big Sky: A 2‑Hour Wet-or‑Dry Float on the Yellowstone from Gardiner

GARDINER WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE

Gentle Rapids, Big Sky: A 2‑Hour Wet-or‑Dry Float on the Yellowstone from Gardiner

A family-friendly, two-hour float down the Yellowstone River with options to stay dry or jump in for water play, photographed by a professional.

Gentle Rapids, Big Sky: A 2‑Hour Wet-or‑Dry Float on the Yellowstone from Gardiner.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Gardiner
Operator
Wild West Rafting
Category
Water Activities
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Surround yourself in nature’s beauty as you gently meander down the Yellowstone River on Wild West Rafting’s Wet or Dry Scenic Float Trip. This family-friendly outing lets groups choose a calm, seated float or hop into swimsuits for water play, and a professional photographer will document the experience.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE RIVER

A Calm Yellowstone Float

A roughly two-hour guided float on the Yellowstone River offers a relaxed pace ideal for taking in riverside scenery and enjoying easy water play rather than whitewater thrills.

THE FAMILY FIT

Designed for All Ages

Marketed as an option perfectly suited for families and guests who are too young for whitewater trips, this scenic float is presented as ideal for all ages.

THE MEMORIES

On-Trip Photography

A professional photographer accompanies the trip to capture moments on the river, so you leave with curated images of your outing.

What the day feels like

What the Two-Hour Float Feels Like

The trip is a leisurely, approximately two-hour float down the Yellowstone: guests meet at the Gardiner office, board rafts for a scenic downstream passage, and can choose to stay on the boat for a gentle cruise or jump into the river for swims and water play while a photographer records the outing.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this trip suits—and who should consider alternatives.

1
Multi‑generation FamiliesPresented as ideal for all ages, this trip accommodates parents, kids, and grandparents who want a scenic, low‑intensity river experience.
2
Families with Young ChildrenRecommended as a perfect option for families with children who are too young for whitewater rafting, offering a gentle, age‑appropriate river outing.
3
Infants & ToddlersInfants (ages 0–2) are accommodated and listed as free, making the trip accessible for very young children when families choose the wet-or-dry format.
4
Casual Outdoor GroupsGroups seeking a scenic, low‑commitment water activity rather than technical rafting will find this two‑hour float well suited to their expectations.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Duration & Daily Times

The trip is approximately 2 hours long with departures at 9:30 am, 1:00 pm, and 4:00 pm.

Meeting Point & Check-In

Arrive at Wild West Rafting’s Gardiner office (129 US Hwy 89 S, Gardiner, MT 59030) 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.

What to Bring

Bring a swimsuit if you plan to swim or participate in water play; plan to be on or near the water during the outing.

Rates & Pricing

Adult (ages 13+) $79; Children (ages 3–12) $69; Infants (ages 0–2) ride free.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Wet or Dry Scenic Float Trip?

The trip is approximately 2 hours long.

What are the scheduled departure times?

Daily trip times are 9:30 am, 1:00 pm, and 4:00 pm.

Where do I meet for the trip and when should I arrive?

Meet at Wild West Rafting’s Gardiner office at 129 US Hwy 89 S, Gardiner, MT; arrive 30 minutes before your trip time to check in.

How much does the trip cost?

Adults (ages 13+) are $79, children (ages 3–12) are $69, and infants (ages 0–2) are free.

Is this trip suitable for young children or guests who don’t want whitewater?

Yes — the Wet or Dry Scenic Float is presented as perfect for all ages and is specifically noted as an ideal option for families with members too young for whitewater trips.

Will there be photography during the trip?

Yes; a professional photographer accompanies the trip to capture images of your experience on the river.