Yellowstone River: Scenic Float Trip for Families & Seniors

Summary

Gentle Yellowstone float trip with wildlife views and family-friendly pace

You’ll drift quietly along six miles of the Yellowstone River, surrounded by mountains and maybe even bald eagles overhead. Perfect for families with little ones or anyone who wants a peaceful ride — your guide handles everything (even water shoes). It’s slow, gentle, and easy to settle into that river rhythm.

What’s the experience like?

Hands gripping the sides of the raft, I felt the river’s chill through my borrowed water shoes — not freezing, just enough to notice. Our guide, Casey (he grew up in Gardiner), nudged us to look left just as a bald eagle swooped low over the water. I almost missed it because I was too busy watching my niece try to hold her tiny sunhat on with both hands. The current was slow, but there was something about floating past those grassy banks that made me want to whisper instead of talk.

We’d barely been on the Yellowstone River five minutes when someone pointed out elk tracks pressed deep into the mud. The air smelled faintly sweet — maybe cottonwoods? — and every so often you’d catch laughter from another raft drifting behind us. Casey told stories about growing up around here; apparently, he once saw an otter steal a fisherman’s lunch right off the shore. I believed him. The whole float lasted about two hours, but honestly it felt like less — in a good way. My dad (he uses a wheelchair) had no trouble getting settled thanks to their ramp setup, which was a relief.

I didn’t expect to feel so calm just watching sunlight flicker on the water, or to care so much about spotting one more animal before we reached the end of our 6-mile day trip on the Yellowstone River. There’s not much noise out there except for birds and oars hitting water now and then. Still think about that eagle sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Scenic float on Yellowstone River

• Begin relaxing float on Yellowstone River
• Enjoy views of highest peak in Gardiner
• Spot wildlife like Bald eagles and Elk
• Complete 6-mile scenic river trip

Top questions

Is this Yellowstone River float suitable for infants?

Yes, infants and small children can join and may sit on an adult’s lap or in a stroller.

How long is the scenic float trip?

The float covers 6 miles on the Yellowstone River and lasts about two hours.

Is this trip wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible including ramps for boarding.

Are there chances to see wildlife during the float?

Yes, you might spot bald eagles, elk, and other animals along the riverbanks.

What is included with this tour?

A professional local guide leads your group and water shoes are provided.

What’s included

Your day includes a friendly local guide who shares stories along the way and provides water shoes if you need them; everything is set up for easy access whether you’re bringing little kids or someone using a wheelchair.