What to wear rafting (or floating).

What should I wear whitewater rafting (or floating)?

One of the top questions we get at Yellowstone Raft Company is, “What do I wear whitewater rafting?” It’s a great question because Southwest Montana’s weather can be unpredictable – and the right gear means you’ll stay comfortable, no matter what the day brings.

From stunning river views of Devil’s Slide rock formation to the geothermal marvels at La Duke Hot Springs, each rafting trip offers sights as unique as the Montana landscape itself. Here’s our guide to help you prepare for the adventure of a lifetime – whether you’re enjoying a scenic float, an 18-mile whitewater excursion, or diving into our Saddle and Paddle trips, which combine horseback riding and rafting for the full Montana experience.

 

Do: Layer Up for Montana’s Weather Mood Swings

image of whitewater rafting

Montana’s high-altitude weather can change in an instant, so layering is key to staying comfortable on the river or trail. Stick to quick-drying, synthetic fabrics – no cotton! Cotton holds water, making it uncomfortable, heavy, and cold once wet. With the right layers, you’ll be able to add or remove them as needed to stay comfortable throughout the day. Here’s how to layer up:

  • Base Layer: Start with moisture-wicking swimwear or athletic wear that fits close. In warmer weather, women typically prefer a swimsuit with shorts and a synthetic shirt for all-day comfort, as the shorts provide an extra layer of cushion.

  • Insulating Layer: Add a lightweight, quick-drying layer, like fleece or a synthetic sweatshirt, to keep you warm without bulk. This layer goes over your base and under our splash jackets, which we provide as an additional layer during cooler seasons.

  • Protective Layer: We provide splash jackets on cooler days to help keep you dry during rafting. If you’re joining us for one of our trips that combines horseback riding and paddling, consider bringing a waterproof, windproof jacket for the horseback portion, as the trail rides go out rain or shine!

 

Extra Note for Horseback Riding: Wear Jeans or Long Pants

image of horseback riding in MTIf you’re doing one of our Saddle & Paddle or Scenic Float & Ride adventures, long pants are required for the horseback portion. They provide essential protection and coverage for your legs on Montana’s scenic, high-elevation trails, allowing you to enjoy the ride comfortably before you transition to the river portion of the adventure. Wear pants that you’ll be comfortable in on both the trail and the river, with waterproof or windproof options being especially practical.

 

Do: Wear River-Ready Footwear

image of whitewater rafting in montana

Footwear is essential for staying steady on the river and safe on Montana’s rugged terrain. Here’s what we recommend:

  • For the River: Water shoes are our top choice, as your feet will likely get wet! They’re designed to give you traction on slippery rocks while protecting your feet. Sandals with straps or an old pair of sneakers can work, too – but no Crocs or flip-flops, as they can easily slip off in the water. If it’s cold, wool socks are a nice addition to keep your toes warm, and we provide booties when needed for extra warmth.

  • For Horseback Riding: If you’re joining one of our horseback riding and river combo adventures, sturdy, closed-toe shoes are required to protect your feet on rugged trails and keep them safe around the horses. With the right shoes, you’ll be ready to navigate Big Sky Country’s scenic trails, where you’ll ride past meandering creeks, through wildflower meadows, and along forested paths – all while staying comfortable and secure as you explore Montana’s natural beauty up close.

 

Do: Pack a Few Essentials for Before and After Your Adventure

image of yellowstone raft water bottle

Here are some items to make your day on the water or trail comfortable and enjoyable. Some of these can be kept in your car for before or after the trip, while smaller essentials, like sunblock, can be applied ahead of time or kept in a secure pocket.

  • Sunglasses with a Retainer: Protect your eyes from the intense reflection off the water, and keep your sunglasses secure with a retainer strap. Many sunglasses have been lost to the Yellowstone River without one! Retainers are available for purchase at our shop, and you can even add one to your booking in advance.

  • Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is essential in Montana’s dry climate. Start drinking water before your trip, and have a bottle ready in the car for afterward.

  • Sunblock: The sun’s rays are strong here, so apply a high SPF sunblock before heading to the river. If you have a compact, secure container for touch-ups, you can bring it along, but make sure it fits in a jacket pocket and is safely stowed.

  • Hat: If you’re someone who enjoys wearing hats, a wide-brimmed hat offers sun protection, while a thin, snug hat can add warmth on cooler days.

  • Change of Clothes & Towel: After your river adventure, you’ll appreciate having dry clothes and a towel in the car. Our changing rooms make it easy to switch out of wet gear comfortably.

  • Bag for Wet Clothes: A small bag is handy for storing wet clothes after your trip, keeping the rest of your belongings dry.

 

Gear: We’ve Got You Covered

image of yellowstone raft visitors

No need to worry about packing extra gear – we provide everything you’ll need for a safe and comfortable trip. This includes helmets, life jackets, splash jackets, booties, and wetsuits (as needed), all at no extra cost. Your guide will assess the conditions and recommend the appropriate gear for the day, so you’ll have exactly what you need and nothing you don’t.

We also sell water bottles, sunblock and an assortment of different hats if you forget one of these items for your trip.

 

What NOT to Bring on a Rafting Trip

image of whitewater rafting in Montana

To ensure your safety and a worry-free experience, leave these items in the car or keep them safely at our office:

  • Wallet
  • Car Keys (we can securely hold these at the front desk)
  • Wedding Rings and other valuables
  • Poor Footwear, like flip-flops, which can easily slip off in the water
  • Cotton Clothing – cotton absorbs water, making it heavy and uncomfortable when wet, so it’s best to stick to quick-drying fabrics like fleece.

For Phones and Cameras: We understand your phone serves as a lifeline, navigator, and camera, but even with a waterproof case, there’s always a risk it could get wet or slip into the river. If you do bring a phone, ensure it’s in an approved waterproof case attached securely to your lifejacket. For cameras, only bring ones that are waterproof and have a safety strap.

To capture the best moments, consider our professional photo package. We’ll get those splash shots and scenic memories, which you can view and purchase at our office or later online.

 

Ready to Gear Up for an Unforgettable Yellowstone Adventure?

You’re all set to dive into the beauty of Yellowstone! With the right gear and a sense of adventure, you’re prepared for an incredible journey on the river or trail. For a relaxing end to your day—or to extend your stay—consider our unique lodging options, including the Yellowstone Tipis glamping package, where you can soak in the sounds, sights, and beauty of the wild in Montana. If you haven’t already, book your rafting package and get ready for thrilling rapids, scenic floats, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Posted by Yellowstone Raft Co. Crew FAQ Floating Kayaking Rafting

July 2020: Mask Mandate

On Wednesday, Governor Steve Bullock issued a new directive, which requires face coverings be worn in certain indoor spaces and for certain organized outdoor activities in counties currently experiencing four or more active cases of COVID-19.

Gov. Bullock says the directive requires businesses, government offices, and other indoor spaces open to the public to ensure that employees, contractors, volunteers, customers, and other members of the public wear a face mask that covers their mouth and nose while remaining inside these spaces. The directive also requires face coverings at organized outdoor activities of 50 or more people, where social distancing cannot be maintained.

The governor says the CDC released a study this week, concluding that “mandating the use of face coverings” in a salon in Missouri likely mitigated the spread of COVID-19. According to the state’s coronavirus task force, in the last month the number of active COVID-19 cases in Montana has risen from 55 to more than 1,000.

The directive does not require face coverings in counties with less than four active cases or for children under 5, though face coverings are still strongly encouraged in both cases. The governor says other exceptions include children under 2, while eating or drinking at businesses that sell food or drinks, during activities that make face coverings unsafe (like strenuous physical exercise or swimming), while giving speeches or performances in front of a socially distanced audience, while receiving medical care or for people with a preexisting condition that would make wearing a face covering unsafe.

Gov. Bullock says businesses, other indoor spaces open to the public and sponsors of organized outdoor activities may deny entry, refuse service, or ask any person to leave if they refuse to wear a face covering. If necessary, the governor says they may also rely on peace officers to enforce the state’s trespassing laws if a person refuses to wear a face covering and refuses to leave the premises.

The governor’s directive goes into effect immediately.

Posted by Yellowstone Raft Co. Crew Our Trips OUTDOOR
Yellowstone Raft Company Fire

Legends Never Die

On July 14, we lost our beloved Yellowstone Raft Company office, but today we remember the wonderful memories that have been made here since 1978. Our YRC family, friends and neighbors are safe, and we appreciate all of the hard work from our first responders. We are devastated to lose such an icon, but YRC will live on!

We are still running our trips and taking bookings during this time. If you book with us, you will now check in at our sister company, @paradiseadventurecompany just around the corner. If you have any questions about your bookings, please reach out on our webchat feature on our website and we will get back to you as soon as we can!

We are absolutely devastated, but we’re so lucky that everyone is safe. Thank you for your understanding and flexibility during this difficult time. Our purpose is to provide adventure to all, and we don’t plan on stopping.

During this time, if you need to make a cancellation or need a refund, you must speak with a staff member to cancel, do not leave any messages to cancel. No shows will be charged the full price of the trip. PLEASE give us a call if you are expecting a delay or are not able to go on the day of your scheduled trip. We would be happy to reschedule your trip.

#GardinerStrong #YellowstoneRaftCompany

Yellowstone Raft Company Fire

Posted by Yellowstone Raft Co. Crew Our Trips OUTDOOR

Bear Aware: Yellowstone’s First Bear Spotting of 2020.

The first confirmed sighting of a grizzly bear in Yellowstone has been announced by The National Park Service (NPS), as male grizzlies begin to make their way out of hibernation.

The bear was spotted prowling the ground near Grand Prismatic Spring on Saturday, March 7, by biologists tracking wildlife in the park by air.

Most of the bears seen emerging are adult males, which exit their dens in early March. Females with cubs tend to wake up in April and early May. This year’s first sighting took place a day earlier than 2019’s.

“Now that bears are emerging from winter dens, visitors should be excited for the chance to view and photograph them, but they should also treat bears with respect and caution,” bear management biologist Kerry Gunther said in a statement.

 

“Many visitors think bears are ravenously hungry and more likely to attack people for food after emerging from hibernation, but almost all bear attacks result from surprise encounters when hikers startle bears at close distances and the bears react with defensive aggression.”

Yellowstone National Park officials spotted this grizzly bear during a Saturday flight, making it the first confirmed grizzly sighting of 2020.
PHOTO COURTESY KIRA CASSIDY, NATIONAL PARK SERVICE

 

Gunther advises hikers, skiers and other visitors to travel in groups of three or more people. Guests should also make sure they are carrying bear spray and to create noise, so as to alert any wandering bears to their presence.

The park says visitors should try to avoid hiking at dusk, dawn or at night, make sure they remain alert and keep food, garbage and other items that might attract attention in bear-proof storage boxes.

Anyone who does come into contact with a bear is asked not to run, keep at least 100 yards away and report any sighting to a park ranger as soon as possible.

Information by Newsweek

Posted by Yellowstone Raft Co. Crew CAMPING OUTDOOR YELLOWSTONE NP

Spring 2020 Yellowstone Road Opening Dates

Park Roads

All information from https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/parkroads.htm 

Posted by Yellowstone Raft Co. Crew CAMPING OUTDOOR YELLOWSTONE NP

Feeling Chilly? These Hot Springs Will Warm You Up!

Is there really any better way to warm up on a cold winter day in Yellowstone Country than soaking in a hot spring? We think not. If you’re visiting in the winter, make sure to visit one of the local hot springs for a fun and relaxing way to beat the cool temps!

1. THE BOILING RIVER IN YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK

You’ll find this natural wonder is just south of the 45th Parallel Bridge, located in the Mammoth area of the park. It’s right near the North Entrance to Yellowstone (just minutes from our store)! Don’t forget your suit, and don’t bring any alcohol, it’s not allowed. The boiling river closes at dark around 6:00pm. This is a can’t-miss winter activity in Yellowstone.

 

2. CHICO HOT SPRINGS

Take the plunge into Chico’s two open-air natural mineral hot springs pools. Guests soak, swim, play and relax in their chemical-free, geothermally heated pools every day of the year. Watch the sun rise over the Absaroka Mountains or gaze into the night sky while soaking in soothing waters. Not far from Gardiner, Chico is a great escape to have fun, eat, drink and be merry! Learn more here.

 

3. YELLOWSTONE HOT SPRINGS

Yellowstone Hot Springs is just up the road near Corwin Springs, located just eight miles north of the North entrance to Yellowstone Park, at the south end of beautiful Paradise Valley (24 E Gate Rd, Gardiner, MT 59030). Yellowstone Hot Springs is a soaking experience unique to this area. Settled between two mountain ranges, and nestled on the bank of the Yellowstone River, peace and serenity are the keynotes of this location. Their winter hours are:
Oct. 15: Open Friday 2:00pm – 9:30pm.
Sat. and Sun., 10:00am – 9:30pm.
Closed: Mon. – Thurs.

Posted by Yellowstone Raft Co. Crew OUTDOOR

Fall 2019 Yellowstone Closings

Yellowstone’s summer season is winding down, but there are still quite a few campgrounds and lodges open for business—not to mention all roads are still open for the season. That said, you don’t want to get your heart set on a specific campground or hotel just to find out it’s closed for the season when you arrive! If you’re planning a fall visit to the world’s first national park, keep the following closing dates in mind:

Fall Road Closing Dates

October 15: Tower Fall to Canyon (Dunraven Pass). Beartooth Highway (US 212 to Red Lodge, MT)
November 4: All roads close at 8 am except the road between the North Entrance (Gardiner, MT) and the Northeast Entrance (Cooke City, MT).

yellowstone map grand loop

Fall Campground Closing Dates

September 9: Indian Creek Campground
September 15: Grant Village Campground
September 22: Bridge Bay, Canyon Campgrounds
September 29: Norris, Tower Fall, Pebble Creek Campgrounds
October 15: Slough Creek Campground
October 20: Madison Campground
November 3: Lewis Lake Campground
Open Year Round: Mammoth Campground
Closed for the 2019 Season: Fishing Bridge RV Park

Fall Lodging Closing Dates

September 2: Roosevelt Lodge & Cabins
September 22: Lake Lodge and Cabins
September 29: Old Faithful Lodge Cabins, Grant Village Lodge
October 7: Lake Hotel and Cabins, Old Faithful Inn
October 13: Canyon Lodge, Mammoth Hot Springs Cabins
November 3: Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, Old Faithful Snow Lodge

A Few More Fall Planning Tips

For more lodging convenient to Yellowstone National Park, check out the Gardiner, Montana lodging directory. We’re just minutes from the park’s North Entrance and offer a wide variety of dining, lodging, services, and activities in the fall months.

Yellowstone’s Northern Range—which includes the road from Gardiner to Mammoth Hot Springs and on to Cooke City—is open year-round to private vehicles. There are plenty of things to do all year long on the Northern Range; click here for a guide to this lesser-traveled, wildlife-rich region of Yellowstone National Park.

Fall weather in the Rocky Mountains is usually characterized by crisp, cold mornings and cool to mild afternoons, but the weather can change quickly this time of year. Keep an eye on all park road conditions or call the Gardiner Montana Visitor Information Center at 406-848-7971.

Blog Post from Visit Gardiner MT

Posted by Yellowstone Raft Co. Crew Uncategorized

Record-Smashing, Historic September Snowstorm

At a Glance

  • A snowstorm is slamming the northern Rockies this weekend.
  • Some parts of Montana may see blizzard conditions at times with well over a foot of snow.
  • Wet snow and high winds will lead to tree damage and power outages.
  • Other lower elevations in the northern Rockies and High Plains may see their first snow of the season.
  • Record cold with dangerous wind chill temperatures is expected as well.
  • A historic September snowstorm is blasting parts of the northern Rockies with heavy, wet snow and high winds, leading to power outages and tree damage, and will be accompanied by record cold temperatures for the end of September and early October.

Happening Now

Snow continues to fall from eastern Washington across the high country of Idaho and western Wyoming, western and central Montana, and as far south as the Great Basin or eastern Nevada.

 

Several locations in northern Montana have already picked up over a foot of snow. The highest snowfall total so far is 23 inches in Browning, Montana. East Glacier Park has already measured 21 inches of snow.

Over 9 inches of snowfall was recorded by the National Weather Service in Great Falls, Montana, Saturday, alone, an all-time record daily snowfall in September, there. Their total of 14 inches since Saturday is closing in on an all-time autumn two-day snowstorm record of 16.1 inches from Nov. 26-27, 2005, according to NOAA’s ACIS database records dating to 1937 and is already the snowiest September, there, topping September 1934’s 13.2 inches of snowfall.

Tree limbs were reported downed on “most, if not all, side streets” due to the weight of 14 inches of wet snow and winds in Choteau, Montana, about 45 miles northwest of Great Falls along the Rocky Mountain Front Range, according to a report relayed to NWS-Great Falls. Two to three-foot drifts were reported in Augusta, Montana, Sunday morning.

 

View the Rest of the Article on the Weather Channel

 

 

Posted by Yellowstone Raft Co. Crew OUTDOOR

Beartooth Pass closes in Wyoming

The Beartooth Pass has closed in Wyoming for the season but remains open from Red Lodge to Montana’s border with its southern neighbor.

The Montana side of U.S. Highway 212 is expected to close sometime over the Columbus Day week, but adverse weather could lead to an earlier closure, according to the Montana Department of Transportation.

Read More

Photo by Billings Gazette

Posted by Yellowstone Raft Co. Crew OUTDOOR

The Saddle & Paddle Experience

There are countless ways to spend your time in Yellowstone, but when it comes down to it, it can be difficult to fit everything you want to do into your vacation. Luckily, we’ve got a perfect day trip for those of you who want to experience the thrill of whitewater rafting down the famous Yellowstone River, and be able to sit back relax on a horseback ride through the Absaroaka-Beartooth Wilderness… all in one day!

Paradise Adventure Company has two “Ride and Raft” trips available every day. The first is for those who are really on a time crunch. The Express Trip includes a one hour horseback ride, followed by an 8-mile whitewater trip. With Montana’s long summer days, you’ll even have time for a drive or a short hike in the Park! The second trip is the Deluxe Ride & Raft Trip. This includes a two hour horseback ride, followed by an 8-mile whitewater trip. This trip also includes a lunch voucher.

If you choose the Deluxe trip, you’ll need to arrive about an hour before your departure time at Paradise Adventure Company’s office to pick up your lunch voucher, then you will head up to the beautiful forested town of Jardine, Montana. It is about an 8-mile, 30 minute drive up a country road of switchbacks and stunning views to reach Hell’s-A-Roarin’ Ranch. Once you arrive, the friendly cowboys (and cowgirls) will assist you in hopping on a trusty steed. They will adjust your stirrups, teach you how to use the reins, and give you a saddle bag to keep your phone or other belongings in. No backpacks allowed!

Your two hour trail ride will take you through the most stunning 360 degree views of the Gallatin and Absaroka mountain ranges at almost 7,000 feet above sea level! The wranglers will help keep you on the trail and are full of fun information about the area. This is a can’t-miss trip!

“Beautiful doesn’t begin to explain this place.  We took the 2 hour tour and loved it.  The views are amazing, and saw some great wildlife. The guide and horses were fantastic.  Highly recommend!” – Tom K.

After your ride, head back down to Gardiner, grab some lunch and head to Paradise Adventure Co.’s office to meet up with the friendly staff to get suited up with all of the safety gear you will need for your rafting trip! Once geared up and ready to go, your rafting guides will take you for a short drive to the put-in to have a safety talk. You’ll learn everything you need to know to stay safe, and to have the most fun possible.

The guides at Paradise Adventure are full of interesting facts about the Yellowstone, the landscapes, and will be sure to point out any wildlife you may see along the way! They will navigate you in and out the rapids, and describe the ways in which the Yellowstone River changes every single day.

After you reach the take-out, you’ll hop in the van for a quick drive back to Gardiner where you can get changed and be on your way to take on whatever you can before the sun goes down!

Book Your Experience Here!

Posted by Yellowstone Raft Co. Crew Our Trips OUTDOOR