Yellowstone Horseback Ride & Raft Trip

Saddle & Paddle: Express

Answer the call of adventure — all day long!

 9 AM Trip Itinerary:

  • 8:30 am: Check-in at the Corrals
  • 9:00 am: Horseback ride into the Absaroka Mountains
  • 12:00 pm: Check-in at Yellowstone Raft Company
  • 12:30 pm: Whitewater rafting trip down the Yellowstone River

Please allow 30 minutes to reach the Corral from the town of Gardiner and arrive 30 minutes prior to horse departure times to adjust your stirrups!  You may want to bring a snack to keep your energy levels up.

Available May - August

  • Please arrive 30 minutes prior to trip time to fill out paperwork and get geared up.
  • Plan for 5 hours round-trip.  All of our adventures take place outdoors; therefore, we cannot guarantee the trip length or size of rapids due to water flow.
  • Transportation to and from the river is provided.
  • The weather in Southwest Montana is ever-changing and often unpredictable. Please dress accordingly, water shoes and fleece are strongly recommended.
  • Long pants and closed-toed shoes are required for horseback.
  • Helmets and life jackets are always provided as well as wetsuits, splash jackets, and booties when needed!

Saddle and Paddle FAQ's

Dress according to the weather. We can provide cool-weather gear, but we recommend fleece, Under Armour, or a synthetic material – not cotton – for under your rafting gear. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet, especially on a hot day. We provide all whitewater gear including helmets, life jackets, and water shoes (if needed). You may want to bring a change of clothes for afterward and change in our changing rooms. Sunglasses and sunblock are recommended. the ranch does not provide rain gear.

**All of our adventures take place outdoors; therefore, we cannot guarantee trip length or size of rapids due to water flow. The weather in Southwest Montana is ever-changing and often unpredictable. Please dress accordingly.  
Saddle & Paddle Deluxe - Whitewater Rafting & Horseback Riding

Saddle and Paddle: Deluxe

 

Answer the call of adventure — all day long!

Trip Itinerary:

  • 10:30 am: Check-in at the Corrales
  • 11:00 am: Horseback ride into the Absaroka Mountains
  • Lunch Break (1:30 pm): Break to allow you time for lunch in Gardiner, explore suggestions here and be sure to call ahead for ETA's (LUNCH NOT INCLUDED).
  • 2:30 pm: Check-in at Yellowstone Raft Company
  • 3:00 pm: 8-mile Whitewater rafting trip down the Yellowstone River

 

  • Please arrive 30 minutes prior to trip time to fill out paperwork and get geared up.
  • Plan for 8 hours round-trip.  All of our adventures take place outdoors; therefore, we cannot guarantee the trip length or size of rapids due to water flow.
  • Transportation to and from the river is provided.
  • The weather in Southwest Montana is ever-changing and often unpredictable. Please dress accordingly, water shoes and fleece are strongly recommended.
  • Helmets and life jackets are always provided as well as wetsuits, splash jackets, and booties when needed!

Saddle and Paddle FAQ's

Dress according to the weather. We can provide cool-weather gear, but we recommend fleece, Under Armour, or a synthetic material – not cotton – for under your rafting gear. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet, especially on a hot day. We provide all whitewater gear including helmets, life jackets, and water shoes (if needed). You may want to bring a change of clothes for afterward and change in our changing rooms. Sunglasses and sunblock are recommended. the ranch does not provide rain gear.

**All of our adventures take place outdoors; therefore, we cannot guarantee trip length or size of rapids due to water flow. The weather in Southwest Montana is ever-changing and often unpredictable. Please dress accordingly.  
image of lady kayaking in gardiner mt

Full Day Kayaking

PRICING:

Adults $169

Ages 13 & Up

AMP UP YOUR PLAYTIME WITH CLASS II & III RAPIDS!

  • Paddle sit-on-top kayaks designed for safety — even if you're inexperienced.
  • Learn how to kayak a river with basic instruction on equipment, safety, stroke styles, movement in and out of the current, and whitewater technique from the safety of the shore or a quiet eddy.
  • Read the rapids and chart your own course for an experience 100 percent unique to you and your capabilities.
  • Glide with nimbleness over the water to reach all the river features you want to hit and easily maneuver through any obstacles.
  • Paddle fun, safe rapids without being intimidated
  • Fun for all ages, the Yellowstone River is a perfect introduction to whitewater kayaking with Class II and Class III rapids. Eddies and kayak-friendly wave-trains make a natural playground for solo boats.
  • Please arrive 30 minutes prior to trip time to fill out paperwork and get geared up.
  • Plan for 5 hours round-trip.  All of our adventures take place outdoors; therefore, we cannot guarantee the trip length or size of rapids due to water flow.
  • Transportation to and from the river is provided.
  • The weather in Southwest Montana is ever-changing and often unpredictable. Please dress accordingly, water shoes, athletic wear (no cotton), and fleece are strongly recommended.
  • Helmets and life jackets are always provided as well as wetsuits, splash jackets, and booties when needed!


Testimonials

Kayaking the Yellowstone River - Half-Day Kayaking Trip in Gardiner, MT

Half Day Kayaking

PRICING:

Adults $99

Ages 13 & Up

PERFECT FOR THE FIRST TIME KAYAKER!

  • Paddle fun, safe rapids without being intimidated
  • Fun for all ages, the Yellowstone River is a perfect introduction to whitewater kayaking with Class II and Class III rapids. Eddies and kayak-friendly wave-trains make a natural playground for solo boats.
  • Paddle sit-on-top kayaks designed for safety — even if you're inexperienced.
  • Learn how to kayak a river with basic instruction on equipment, safety, stroke styles, movement in and out of the current, and whitewater technique from the safety of the shore or a quiet eddy.
  • Read the rapids and chart your own course for an experience 100 percent unique to you and your capabilities.
  • Glide with nimbleness over the water to reach all the river features you want to hit and easily maneuver through any obstacles.
  • Please arrive 30 minutes prior to trip time to fill out paperwork and get geared up.
  • Plan for 2.5 hours round-trip.  All of our adventures take place outdoors; therefore, we cannot guarantee the trip length or size of rapids due to water flow.
  • Transportation to and from the river is provided.
  • The weather in Southwest Montana is ever-changing and often unpredictable. Please dress accordingly, water shoes, athletic wear (no cotton), and fleece are strongly recommended.
  • Helmets and life jackets are always provided as well as wetsuits, splash jackets, and booties when needed!


Testimonials

image of Montana Whitewater Rafting Trips

Canyon Run

PRICES:

Adults (Ages 16+) $89

*Photos on Canyon Run are not guaranteed!

Private Trip $650

4 guest minimum. Includes up to 6, additional $89 per person after 6 people.

Requirements

Minimum Age: 2
Minimum Number of Participants: 4
Each trip requires at least 4 people to participate. If this requirement isn’t met, we’ll notify you to reschedule.

About Our Canyon Run Trip

Skip the calmer waters and navigate the iconic Yankee Jim Canyon rapids of the Yellowstone River on our Canyon Run trip. Known as the most iconic 6-mile stretch of Class II–III rapids in Montana, Yankee Jim Canyon delivers non-stop excitement and fun, making it one of the most sought-after experiences in the region. Led by our experienced guides, you'll take on heart-pumping drops and splashes as you navigate rapids like "Yankee Jim's Revenge," "Big Rock," "The Pinch," and "Boxcar."

This high-energy adventure is only available from June to mid-July, when snowmelt feeds the river, creating the biggest flows of the season.

Know Before You Go

Check-in

Please arrive at our office 30 minutes in advance to fill out paperwork and get your rafting gear.

Transportation

Provided to and from the river.

What to Wear

We recommend river sandals, athletic clothing, fleece, and synthetic/wool socks (Avoid denim and cotton). Water shoes and fleece are strongly recommended. Helmets and life jackets are always provided, as well as wetsuits, splash jackets, and booties when needed.

Trip Length

Plan for 2.5 hours round-trip.

Who Can Ride?

This trip is open to guests ages 16 and up.

Canyon Run FAQs

These trips are suitable for those 16 years of age and up due to the canyon’s physically demanding nature and advanced rapids. Safety instructions will be provided before departure, and you are welcome to ask questions at any time. We want you to feel safe and comfortable.
Yes, an expert guide is strongly recommended when rafting Yankee Jim Canyon due to the powerful Class III and IV rapids. This section of the river demands skill and experience to navigate safely. Self-guided trips should only be attempted by those with extensive whitewater experience and proper equipment.
Rapids can vary from Class III to Class IV. Expect big waves and strong currents with strong boat-flipping potential at the notoriously dangerous "Boxcar" rapid.
Please check in 30 minutes before your trip at the main office located at: 212 W Park St (inside Paradise Adventure Company building), Gardiner, MT 59030 Here, you will sign waivers, receive gear, and meet your guide.
We highly recommend bringing water shoes and fleece. We also suggest bringing a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, waterproof camera, and water bottle.
May to June is the best time to raft the Canyon when the river has the highest water levels, as snowmelt feeds the river. Our Canyon Run trips are available from June to mid-July.
Whitewater Rafting in Montana
image of rafting trip with yellowstone raft

8 Mile Whitewater

PRICES:

Adults $79

Ages 13 & Up

Children $69

Ages 6-12

Early Bird Special $65

Starts at 9 a.m., $65 for adults, $55 for children

Private Trip $600

Includes up to 6, additional $74 per person after 6 people.

Requirements

Minimum Age: 6
Minimum Number of Participants: 4
Each trip requires at least 4 people to participate. If this requirement isn’t met, we’ll notify you to reschedule.

About Our 8 Mile Whitewater Trips

Experience the best rafting in Yellowstone on our half-day, 8-mile whitewater trip, perfect for first-time rafters and seasoned adventurers. Paddle along the Yellowstone River, just outside Gardiner, MT, through legendary rapids like Maneater and California Curler. Along the way, take in Yellowstone’s breathtaking mountain scenery, spot local wildlife, and marvel at natural wonders like the terraced La Duke Hot Springs and the Devil’s Slide. Our expert guides make this rafting trip safe, fun, and educational for all skill levels.

This unforgettable Gardiner, MT, rafting adventure delivers two hours of thrilling rapids and extraordinary views on one of the West’s most iconic rivers.

Know Before You Go

Check-in

Please arrive at our office 30 minutes in advance to fill out paperwork and get your rafting gear.

Transportation

Provided to and from the river.

What to Wear

All necessary whitewater rafting gear is included, like helmets, life jackets, booties, splash jackets, and wetsuits. We recommend wearing river sandals, athletic clothing, fleece, and synthetic/wool socks (Avoid denim and cotton).

Trip Length

Plan for 2 hours round-trip.

Who Can Ride

This trip is open to guests ages 6 and up (or 40lbs.).

Whitewater Rafting FAQs

The half-day 8-mile trips last 2-3 hours, covering 8 miles of thrilling rafting through Class II-III rapids. This is perfect for first-timers and families looking for a quick adrenaline-packed adventure. The full-day 18-mile trips last 5 hours, covering 18 miles of Class I, II, and III rapids. It is more physically demanding, making it perfect for those wanting a more immersive and adventurous experience.
With rapids like "Maneater," "California Curler," and "Sleeping Giant," you’ll experience stretches of Class II–III rapids that are exciting but beginner-friendly. Class II rapids can reach up to 3 feet high while Class III rapids can reach from 3–5 feet high.
Yes, reservations are required to guarantee a spot on a specific date or time—walk-ins are only accepted if there’s availability. We recommend booking as early as possible—either online or by calling us directly.
Please check in 30 minutes before your trip at the main office located at: 212 W Park St (inside Paradise Adventure Company building), Gardiner, MT 59030 Here, you will sign waivers, receive gear, and meet your guide.
From May to June, plan for the water to be around 45–50°F, with warmer temperatures when summer progresses.
image of yellowstone rafting tour

18 Mile Whitewater

PRICES:

Adults $159

Ages 13 & Up

Children $139

Ages 6-12, Age restrictions may apply during spring run off, call for details.

Private Trip $1,100

Includes up to 6, additional $150 per person after 6 people.

Requirements

Minimum Age: 6
Minimum Number of Participants: 4
Each trip requires at least 4 people to participate. If this requirement isn’t met, we’ll notify you to reschedule.

 

 

About Our 18 Mile Whitewater Trips

Experience our 18-mile whitewater rafting trip for a full day of Yellowstone River thrills, views of Montana's beauty, and the best of rafting in Yellowstone National Park. You’ll conquer a mix of Class I, II, and III rapids, pause at the iconic Lunch Island for a riverside picnic with epic mountain views, and raft into the legendary Yankee Jim Canyon to navigate rapids like Yankee Jim’s Revenge, Big Rock, The Pinch, and Boxcar.

At the end of your Yellowstone River adventure, sign the raft bus roof and check out your trip photos to relive one of the most exciting rafting trips in Yellowstone National Park.

 

 

Know Before You Go

Check-in

Please arrive at our office 30 minutes in advance to fill out paperwork and get your rafting gear.

Transportation

Provided to and from the river.

What to Wear

All necessary whitewater rafting gear is included, like helmets, life jackets, booties, splash jackets, and wetsuits. We recommend wearing river sandals, athletic clothing, fleece, and synthetic/wool socks (Avoid denim and cotton).

Trip Length

Plan for a 5-hour round-trip.

Who Can Ride

This trip is open to guests ages 6 and up (or 40lbs.).

Whitewater Rafting FAQs

A regular whitewater rafting trip is a shared experience among different guests that includes expert guides, necessary gear, and the same scenic thrills through Class II-III rapids. The schedules are set and follow a typical group size dynamic. A private whitewater rafting trip includes only your group, who are exclusive to the raft with no other guests invited. It offers a more flexible pace, start time, and route decisions, and includes expert guides, necessary gear, and scenic thrills.
With rapids like "Maneater," "California Curler," and "Sleeping Giant," you’ll experience stretches of Class II–III rapids that are exciting but beginner-friendly. Class II rapids can reach up to 3 feet high while Class III rapids can reach from 3–5 feet high.
Yes, reservations are required to guarantee a spot on a specific date or time—walk-ins are only accepted if there’s availability. We recommend booking as early as possible—either online or by calling us directly.
Please check in 30 minutes before your trip at the main office located at: 212 W Park St (inside Paradise Adventure Company building), Gardiner, MT 59030 Here, you will sign waivers, receive gear, and meet your guide.
From May to June, plan for the water to be around 45–50°F, with warmer temperatures when summer progresses