Yellowstone River: 2-Hour Whitewater Rafting Trip for Families

Summary

Whitewater splashes and laughter on the Yellowstone River

You’ll feel every splash as you paddle down the Yellowstone River with certified guides leading your raft through gentle whitewater rapids. Expect laughter, cool water on your skin, and stories from locals along the way. With wetsuits and splash jackets provided plus changing facilities at basecamp, you’ll end your trip both tired and happy—maybe even still laughing.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to laugh that much, honestly. The first cold splash hit me right in the face — not gentle at all — and suddenly I was wide awake, clutching my paddle while our guide, Mike, yelled “Forward!” over the rush of water. We’d barely left the bank near Gardiner when a bald eagle swooped overhead. I remember thinking, is this normal here? Mike just grinned like it happened every day.

The river moves quick but not scary-fast, which was good since there were a couple of little kids up front (one kept squealing every time we hit a wave). The water smelled sharp and clean, almost metallic in the early summer sun. My wetsuit felt weird at first — kind of rubbery and tight — but after the second rapid I stopped noticing. Mike pointed out some rock formations with names I forgot immediately (something about “Sleeping Giant”?) and told stories about winter ice jams and elk crossings. He had this way of making everyone relax, even when we spun sideways for a second. I think he liked making us nervous just to see who’d shriek.

We pulled over once so people could jump in if they wanted — I didn’t, but my friend did and came up gasping from the cold, hair plastered flat. There was this smell of wet cottonwood trees along the banks that reminded me of camping trips as a kid. Someone lost a shoe (they fished it out), and there was this moment where everyone just floated quietly for a minute before paddling again. It’s funny how loud silence can feel after all that yelling.

I still think about that last stretch where you can see the mountains opening up ahead — something about the light on the water made everything look bigger than it really is. Not sure if it’s always like that or if we just got lucky with the weather. Either way, by the time we hit shore again I was soaked through and grinning like an idiot. So yeah, two hours goes fast on the Yellowstone River.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — 2-hour whitewater rafting on Yellowstone River

• Meet certified rafting guides
• Begin 2-hour rafting trip
• Enjoy splashes and river fun
• Complete rafting adventure

Top questions

How long is the Yellowstone River rafting trip?

The rafting trip lasts approximately 2 hours on the river.

Is this whitewater rafting tour suitable for kids?

Yes, families and kids of all ages can join as long as children are accompanied by an adult.

What equipment is included in this rafting trip?

Your booking includes wetsuits, water shoes, splash jacket, and access to changing facilities.

Are guides certified on this Yellowstone rafting tour?

Yes, all trips are led by certified guides experienced with local river conditions.

Do I need previous rafting experience?

No prior experience is needed; guides provide instructions before starting.

Where does the rafting trip start?

The tour departs from near Gardiner on the Yellowstone River; check-in is required 30 minutes before departure.

Is lunch included in this tour?

No meals are included; only equipment and guide services are provided.

Are there health restrictions for participants?

This activity isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your day includes certified river guides leading your raft down the Yellowstone River for two hours of whitewater fun. Wetsuits, water shoes, splash jackets are provided so you stay comfortable no matter how many waves hit you—and there’s a changing facility to dry off after your trip ends.