Get prepared for your whitewater rafting adventure!
What you need to know when preparing for your whitewater rafting trip on the Yellowstone, Gallatin and Madison River of Montana. If you have never rafted before, we have all the details you need to feel prepared and ready to rock and roll down some of the most beautiful waters in Montana.
Choose an appropriate rafting trip.
Consider your groups ages, abilities, and comfort levels when booking. River classifications can help you determine how rigorous the waters.
Class 1 EASY, moving water with small waves.
Class 2 NOVICE, Straightforward rapids with clear channels.
Class 3 INTERMEDIATE, bigger waves, requiring specific maneuvers.
Class 4 ADVANCED, intense and powerful but predictable rapids requiring skills.
Class 5 EXPERT, long obstructed or violent rapids with unavoidable hazards.
If your group is a mix of ages and abilities it is best to book a more appropriate class 1-3 trip for an enjoyable experience. If your group is full of adrenaline junkies then you might consider a class 3-4 trip for more rapids. Keep in mind that our Montana rivers run off snow melt, so water levels will vary throughout the season. High water is early season (May-June) when the mountain snow is melting.
With low water season in the later summer months (August-September). Of course, things like rainfall can fluctuate the water levels at any time. Age restrictions may be put in place depending upon water levels.
Which river is right for you…The Yellowstone, The Gallatin, or The Madison River?
We encourage guests to book a whitewater rafting trip closest to your accommodations. Figure out where you are staying and book accordingly. Check how far our offices are from your location so you can prepare for the drive time.
Our Yellowstone River trips are located in Gardiner, Montana just outside the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park. The Yellowstone River is a wide deep high volume river with splashy rapids ranging from Class 1-3. This is a great family friendly, first-timer option.
Our Gallatin River trips are located in Gallatin Gateway, Montana about half way between Big Sky and Bozeman. The Gallatin River is a narrow rocky river with breathtaking canyon views. We raft various stretches of river – Least Challenging Trip, Class 1-2, Less Challenging, Class 2-3, and More Challenging, Class 2-4. See all our Gallatin River trip options here.
Our Madison River Beartrap Canyon trip is a specialty trip (not offered everyday). Located just outside of Bozeman near Ennis, Montana. This is a small group experience and a full day trip including a riverside lunch. Our guides will row you down a 10-mile stretch of the Madison River through peaceful waters and exciting class 4 rapids.
Gear up appropriately for the river.
All rafters are required to wear our helmets and PFDs (personal floatation device, life jacket). This is not optional and for safety. We do provide additional gear to our guests, free of charge. We have farmer john style wetsuits, river booties, and splash jackets available for all rafters. All gear is cleaned and sanitized after every use. What do you need to bring? We recommend rafting in your bathing suit or quick dry athletic style clothing. The weather in Montana can be unpredictable. Definitely bring some extra layers such as fleece jacket, long sleeve (non-cotton) if needed. Being too cold or not having enough clothing can put a damper on your overall experience. Also, a change of dry clothes for after your trip can be handy!
Listen to your raft guide.
The trip leader guide will give a safety talk at the put-in. Listen and listen carefully, especially if it is your first time. The rivers can be unpredictable but your guide is there to help you navigate the waters. Follow the raft guide’s instructions on the river and listen to the commands. These commands will help you stay in the boat! Communicate with your guide. If you have questions or are unsure about something, just ask. Your guide will give you a lot of helpful information. Or click here for more FAQs about your rafting trip.
Paddle and stay in the boat.
Secure yourself in the boat with proper foot holds. The waters can be bumpy. Practice proper paddle holds, grips, and strokes. Paddling a boat through rapids definitely requires teamwork! Know the basics of what to do if you fall out of the boat. Again, the safety talk at the put-in will cover what to do in the event you fall out of the boat. The raft guide will get to you and pull you back into the raft. Keep calm and point your legs downstream.
Enjoy the Montana river adventure!
Whitewater rafting is fun but, be prepared for a workout. Unless you are on a scenic flat water trip you will be paddling through waters and navigating obstacles. Prepare mentally and physically to get your adrenaline pumping. Whether you are taking a ride down the Yellowstone, Gallatin, or Madison River embrace the thrill and make memories!
