White Water Rafting Near Yellowstone
From gentle floats to heart-pounding rapids — find the perfect river adventure for your group, right at Yellowstone's doorstep.
The Rivers Are Calling
Yellowstone's surrounding rivers offer some of the most spectacular rafting in the American West. Whether you're looking for a mellow morning float with the kids or a full-day Class IV expedition that leaves your arms shaking, we've partnered with the region's best outfitters to bring you handpicked experiences. Every trip listed below is available to La Résidence guests — just let our concierge team know which one catches your eye, and we'll handle the booking.
Half-Day Trips
Short on time but big on adventure? These 3–4 hour trips fit perfectly into a packed Yellowstone itinerary.
Scenic Float — Easy / Family-Friendly
A relaxed 3-hour drift through calm stretches of the Yellowstone River. Perfect for families with young children, first-timers, or anyone who wants to soak in the canyon views without getting soaked themselves. Class I–II rapids.
Half-Day Classic — Moderate
The most popular trip for a reason. Four hours on the Gallatin River with a mix of calm pools and splashy Class II–III rapids. No experience necessary — just a willingness to paddle and laugh.
Half-Day Whitewater Rush — Challenging
A fast-paced 3.5-hour run through the Gallatin Canyon's tightest sections. Class III–IV rapids, cold spray, and non-stop action. Prior rafting experience recommended. Minimum age 12.
Scenic Float — Easy / Family-Friendly
A relaxed 3-hour drift through calm stretches of the Yellowstone River. Perfect for families with young children, first-timers, or anyone who wants to soak in the canyon views without getting soaked themselves. Class I–II rapids.
Half-Day Classic — Moderate
The most popular trip for a reason. Four hours on the Gallatin River with a mix of calm pools and splashy Class II–III rapids. No experience necessary — just a willingness to paddle and laugh.
Half-Day Whitewater Rush — Challenging
A fast-paced 3.5-hour run through the Gallatin Canyon's tightest sections. Class III–IV rapids, cold spray, and non-stop action. Prior rafting experience recommended. Minimum age 12.
Go all in. Book a full-day expedition.
Spend 6–8 hours on the water, break for a riverside lunch, and cover miles of Montana's most beautiful canyons.
Full-Day Adventures
For those who want the complete river experience — longer runs, bigger rapids, and a hot riverside lunch included.
Full-Day Explorer — Moderate
A 6-hour journey down the Yellowstone River combining scenic floats with Class II–III whitewater. Includes a catered lunch on the riverbank. Great for groups with mixed comfort levels — something for everyone.
Full-Day Gallatin Gorge — Advanced
Eight hours of serious paddling through the Gallatin Canyon's most demanding sections. Class III–IV rapids, technical maneuvers, and remote stretches most visitors never see. Lunch and gear included. Ages 14+.
Full-Day Explorer — Moderate
A 6-hour journey down the Yellowstone River combining scenic floats with Class II–III whitewater. Includes a catered lunch on the riverbank. Great for groups with mixed comfort levels — something for everyone.
Full-Day Gallatin Gorge — Advanced
Eight hours of serious paddling through the Gallatin Canyon's most demanding sections. Class III–IV rapids, technical maneuvers, and remote stretches most visitors never see. Lunch and gear included. Ages 14+.
What's Included With Every Trip
All outfitters we partner with meet the same high standards — so you can focus on the river, not the logistics.
PFDs, helmets, and wetsuits provided
Certified guides on every raft
Action photos available after your trip
Shuttle service to and from put-in points
Compare Your Options
Which trip is right for you?
Not sure where to start? Here's a quick comparison to help you decide.
Gallery
On the Water
A taste of what's waiting for you just minutes from your La Résidence home.
Gallatin Canyon
Towering walls and turquoise water
Paddle Through the Spray
Class III rapids on a sunny afternoon
Riverside Lunch
Full-day trips include a catered break
Yellowstone River Sunset
The reward after a long day on the water
Common Questions About Rafting Near Yellowstone
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