As the first National Park in the United States and the world, Yellowstone National Park is an American gem that is well-known across the globe. Spanning three states and home to an incredible number of geological wonders, this national park attracts visitors by the millions each year. There are Airbnb vacation rentals in Yellowstone National Park as well. If you prefer a more unique experience, you can also choose to stay in a yurt nearby. Hiking, biking, camping, fishing, horseback riding, boating, bird-watching, sightseeing, and rafting are some of the amazing activities that can be enjoyed in the area. With several rivers passing through the lands of the park, including the mighty Yellowstone River, white-water rafting is a very enjoyable activity here. Class II, III, and IV rapids can be experienced on Yellowstone River, whereas several smaller rapids and kayaking in Yellowstone National Park are also available for less adventurous visitors. Half-day, full-day, and even overnight trips are available. Simply scroll down to learn more about the top rafting experiences in Yellowstone National Park, USA.
1. Scenic rafting cruise on Yellowstone River
Enjoy a relaxed Yellowstone River rafting experience in this two-hour tour. The slower pace will help you appreciate the beauty of the surroundings as you slowly cruise down the river. An expert guide will make sure that you avoid major rapids and ensure that you’re gently floating down and hitting mild rapids once in a while so you can get splashed. You might even be able to dive in for a refreshing swim.
Make sure to bring your waterproof camera to take pictures of the wildlife if you’re lucky enough to spot them.
Book Tours : From Gardiner: Yellowstone River Scenic Float
2. Adrenaline-packed rafting adventure on Yellowstone River
Experience an adrenaline rush as you go white-water rafting in Yellowstone National Park with Class II and III rapids under the watch of your expert guide. Take breaks between the rapids to marvel at the amazing scenery of the surrounding Gallatin National Forest and learn about various historic landmarks along the way. You will also get a chance to jump into the river for a short swim. After your exhilarating two-hour rafting adventure, head back to the starting point at Gardiner to purchase pictures and other souvenirs.
Book Tours : 2 Hour Rafting on the Yellowstone River
3. Scenic raft-floating experience in Yellowstone National Park
For those looking for an alternative and milder adventure to white-water rafting on Yellowstone River, a scenic float is an ideal option. Suitable for families with young children, this serene rafting experience takes you through two hours of gentle floating on the water past mesmerising scenery of the Gallatin and Absaroka mountains whilst listening to the informative commentary of your expert guide. There is a good chance of spotting native wildlife like Osprey birds, geese, deer or an eagle. You could also choose to go for a swim in the calmer areas of the river in this experience.
Book Tours : Scenic Float on the Yellowstone River
4. Full-day white-water rafting adventure on Yellowstone River
Embark on a full-day rafting adventure on the majestic Yellowstone River that will have you talking about it for years to come! After you suit up and arrive at the river, you’ll begin with 18 miles (28 km) of white-water rafting through Class II, III or IV rapids of the river interspersed with gentle floating past breathtaking views of Gallatin National Forest. Enjoy a swim and then a homemade picnic lunch halfway through. Finish off your day with an expedition through Yankee Jim Canyon.
Book Tours : Full Day Rafting on the Yellowstone River
5. Exhilarating rafting adventure through Yankee Jim Canyon
For white-water rafting enthusiasts, an adventurous rafting experience shooting rapids through Yankee Jim Canyon is a must-do activity in Yellowstone National Park. After a briefing session on the shore of Yellowstone River, you will set off on an exciting session lasting two to three hours, where you will navigate through Class III and IV rapids under the instructions of your guide. Scenic views abound along the way, and an amazing experience is guaranteed on this rafting trip.
6. Fun-filled overnight rafting trip in Yellowstone National Park
Experience Yellowstone River in all its glory with an overnight rafting trip in Yellowstone National Park. Begin your trip with a scenic float on the river and take in the mesmerising views of the surrounding Montana scenery. Hit several Class III rapids and build up an appetite for a hearty lunch on the banks of the river under the shade of tall cottonwood trees. Thereafter, hit the rapids again on the narrow Yankee Jim Canyon and then gently meander on to Montana ranchland, where an inviting campsite awaits you. Have a grilled dinner and enjoy stargazing, stories, campfire and roasting marshmallows at the camp. End your trip with a good night’s sleep in comfortable tents.
7. Half-day white-water rafting experience
Spend a few hours rafting on Yellowstone River and get a taste of all that this river has to offer. Start off by navigating white-water rapids with cheeky names like Pumphouse, Maneater and Wake Up. Along the way, during flat stretches of water, take in the unspoiled views of Yellowstone National Park’s beauty in its mountains, wildlife and other natural scenery. During the trip, you will also see the terraced La Duke Hot Springs, Devil’s Slide and many other geological wonders of the area. You have the option to purchase pictures of your adventure at the end of the trip.
Book Tours : Half Day Whitewater Rafting Outside of Yellowstone
8. Thrilling Gallatin River rafting adventure
Plough through the adventurous rapids of Gallatin River as you embark on a white-water rafting trip through Gallatin River Canyon near Yellowstone National Park. Providing easy access from the Old Faithful geyser and West Yellowstone area, this river-rafting experience takes you through adrenaline-packed rapids like Mad Mile, Screaming Left, etc. All rafting gear, including wetsuits and booties, are provided by the trip operator, and you will be able to navigate the rapids with the aid of a skilled guide. Scenic views on the way are a bonus feature of this trip.
Book Tours : Gallatin River Scenic Float Rafting
9. Family-friendly rafting trip on Yellowstone River
On this fun-filled half-day river-rafting trip, everyone can experience the joys of rafting, including beginners and families with small children. During the two to three hours of this guided rafting trip, you get to experience white-water rapids with interesting names like Boonie’s Revenge, Man-Eater Hole, Sleeping Giant, etc. There are plenty of amazing views of the surrounding natural Montana landscapes to be admired along the way. In between the rapids, you also get a chance to spot local wildlife, take a dip in the river or simply relax in the raft.
Rafting adventures in Yellowstone National Park
Enjoy the natural beauty of Yellowstone to the fullest, and maybe even stay in one of its best camping spots, for a fun vacation. Besides its surreal natural beauty and diverse wildlife, rafting and zipline in Yellowstone are also very popular. And with our list of the best rafting options in the park, you are sure to have an exhilarating experience that will give you lifetime memories.
Frequently asked questions about the rafting experience in Yellowstone National Park, USA
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