Up for family fun and excitement? Saddle up partner! We have the top 7 family FUN activities in Gardiner, Montana for you!
Historic Gardiner, Montana is located at the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park alongside the Yellowstone River. A quaint town surrounded by beautiful landscape and abundant wildlife. If you are planning a family trip to YNP be sure to check out this little western gem. With no big box stores in sight, Gardiner is full of locally owned and operated businesses who are ready to serve you and your family. Check out our top seven Gardiner, Montana family friendly adventures! Let’s GO!
1. Whitewater Rafting
Family splash down the Yellowstone River
When you are in Gardiner, you really can’t miss the almighty Yellowstone River. It is the longest free flowing river in the lower 48 states. A wide, high volume river full of rolling rapids – making it a family friendly whitewater rafting experience. If you are staying in or traveling through Gardiner, be sure to book your raft trip with us at Montana Whitewater. Providing family fun since 1992, our knowledgeable guides will show you western hospitality and a heck of a good time! Rapids will vary depending upon water levels. Our most popular family friendly trips include the 8-mile Paradise Raft Trip and our Yellowstone River Full Day raft excursion which includes a riverside lunch. Fill your day with splashy fun, lots of laughter, and memories for a lifetime.
2. Guided Zipline Tour
Fun soaring through the mountains near Yellowstone
Take the family adventures to the air with the Yellowstone Eco Zipline Tour. We are the closest zipline to Yellowstone National Park. Our EcoTour takes place over the historic Stermitz Ranch located in Cinnabar Basin surrounded by mountains and bordering YNP. Get ready to soar down the mountainsides from ridge to ridge all while learning about the Greater Yellowstone Eco System. Trips meet at our office in downtown Gardiner and we shuttle you to the ranch and back. So, be ready to soak in the breathtaking vistas and wildlife while soaring like a bird!
3. Wildlife Family Adventure Tour
Discover Wildlife in Yellowstone National Park
Take your family on a walk to the wild side with Yellowstone Wild Tours. They offer a variety of tours – from the Summer Family Adventure Tour to photography, hiking, backpacking, and geyser excursions – all with an expert local guide. Their vision is to guide guests – “through exploration, play, observation, and discovery – to find their passion for Yellowstone and all the wild places.” Their team of knowledgeable and passionate guides provides an immersive experience for you and your family. Bring your family for a fun-filled day of adventure and learning. Embark on a journey in search of bison, pronghorn, birds of prey and more through Lamar Valley. The tour includes breakfast, snacks, and lunch as well as hands on activities such as games, nature walks, drawings and paintings.
4. Horseback Trail Ride
Ride through a Historic Gardiner, Montana Ranch
Get in the western spirit on a horseback trail ride through a Montana paradise. Wilderness Connection offers 1 hour, 2 hour, half day and full day rides through their historic Stermitz Ranch property located on the edge of Yellowstone National Park. Founded in 1900, this family owned property is filled with rich history, wildlife, and breathtaking mountain vistas.
5. E-Bike Family Adventure
See the Gardiner, Montana area from two wheels
See the north Yellowstone area with a guided tour from the seat of an electric bike. Big Sky E-bike Tours and Rentals offers so many options for your family and are conveniently located on Scott Street in downtown Gardiner. Whether you are ready to take off on your own adventure or have a guide to take you down the road less traveled, they have the ride for you! Hop on two wheels and ride down the scenic Old Yellowstone Trail into Yankee Jim Canyon. Or head up the steep terrain of Bunsen Peak to view wildlife.
6. Family Hiking Day Trip
Explore Yellowstone National Park with a local guide
Experience the vast beauty of Yellowstone with local naturalists from Yellowstone Hiking Guides. The size of the park can not only be overwhelming, but also the fear of getting lost is real. Their guides know the lay of the land and have mountains of experience to share with your family all while keeping you safe. From day trips to overnight backpacking adventures throughout Yellowstone National Park you can experience rivers, valleys, canyons, safaris and more. Whether you are looking for easy, moderate, or a strenuous hike – they offer a variety of trips to suit your family adventure.
7. Yellowstone Hot Springs Soak
Family outdoor relaxation in Gardiner, Montana
There is nothing like a little rest and relaxation after family outdoor adventuring. Kick up your feet and soak in the natural mineral rich pools at Yellowstone Hot Springs. Set between two mountain ranges and nestled on the banks of the Yellowstone River, it is the most breathtaking setting for relaxing and recharging. In addition to reasonable entrance fees, they are also an alcohol and tobacco free site making Yellowstone Hot Springs a great family friendly stop in Gardiner, Montana.
