From Gardiner: Yellowstone River Whitewater Rafting & Lunch

Seeking an exhilarating outdoor adventure near Yellowstone National Park? Look no further than the Yellowstone River’s Yankee Jim Canyon. This guided whitewater rafting trip from Gardiner offers the perfect blend of excitement and scenic beauty. Experienced guides navigate class II and III rapids as you take in the stunning surroundings, from towering canyon walls to glimpses of local wildlife. And the crowning touch? A delicious picnic lunch on a secluded island. Intrigued? Let’s dive deeper into what this unforgettable experience entails.

This experience made our article of 5 Best Lunch Experiences In Gardiner Montana.

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Key Points

Guided 4.5-hour whitewater rafting adventure down the Yellowstone River from Gardiner, featuring class II and III rapids in Yankee Jim Canyon.
Small group experience limited to 8 participants, with opportunities to spot wildlife like deer, elk, osprey, and bald eagles.
Picnic lunch served on a secluded island, with swimming options during calmer stretches of the river.
Experienced and certified guides lead the trips, equipped with first aid and rescue gear for a safe and confident navigation of the rapids.
Reasonable level of physical fitness recommended, with a 4.8/5 rating based on traveler reviews highlighting friendly guides and delicious lunch.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

Participants embark on a guided journey down the Yellowstone River, where they’ll experience a full day of class II and III rapids through the scenic Yankee Jim Canyon.

A guided journey down the Yellowstone River, navigating class II and III rapids through the scenic Yankee Jim Canyon.

The activity lasts 4.5 hours and is limited to small groups of 8 participants. Adventurers can expect to see wildlife like deer, elk, osprey, and bald eagles during the excursion.

After navigating the river’s rushing waters, you will enjoy a picnic lunch on an island.

The tour provides essential equipment, including wetsuits, splash jackets, and life jackets, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience.

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Pricing and Booking

The Yellowstone River whitewater rafting experience is priced at £123.65 per person. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This guided journey along the Yellowstone River offers a full day of class II and III rapids, as well as the opportunity to explore Yankee Jim Canyon.

The small group is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

With the convenience of a reserve now, pay later option and flexible cancellation policy, booking this thrilling outdoor adventure is hassle-free.

Experience Highlights

Although the rapids can be thrilling, the whitewater rafting experience also offers opportunities to spot wildlife. Guests can look for:

Deer and elk roaming the riverbanks
Ospreys and bald eagles soaring overhead
Picturesque views of Yankee Jim Canyon
A delicious picnic lunch served on a secluded island

The class II and III rapids provide an adrenaline-filled ride, with opportunities to swim during calmer stretches.

Experienced guides ensure safety, providing all necessary equipment like wetsuits, splash jackets, and life jackets.

With a small group size limited to 8 participants, this adventure offers an intimate and memorable excursion on the Yellowstone River.

Safety and Guide Information

Experienced and certified guides lead all Yellowstone River whitewater rafting trips. Guides hold First Aid, CPR, and Swift Water Rescue certifications, ensuring your safety on the river.

Before departure, they provide a thorough safety briefing, covering proper equipment usage and safety protocols. All trips are equipped with a first aid kit and rescue gear, allowing guides to respond quickly to any emergencies.

With their expertise and safety-focused approach, you can confidently navigate the class II and III rapids while enjoying the stunning Yellowstone scenery.

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Participant Information and Reviews

Not all participants may find the Yellowstone River whitewater rafting experience suitable. This activity isn’t recommended for children under 5 years old or pregnant women.

The meeting point is located at 129 US Hwy 89 S. Gardiner, MT 59030. Based on 16 traveler reviews, the experience has an overall rating of 4.8/5.

The meeting point is located at 129 US Hwy 89 S. Gardiner, MT 59030. The experience has an overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 16 traveler reviews.

Positive feedback highlights the friendly guides, delicious picnic lunch, and enjoyable nature of the rapids.

Participants must be able to navigate uneven terrain and get in/out of the raft.

No prior rafting experience is required, but a reasonable level of physical fitness is recommended.

Safety equipment and instructions are provided, but participants should follow all guide directives.

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Explore Yankee Jim Canyon

What makes Yankee Jim Canyon a highlight of the Yellowstone River whitewater rafting experience? The steep, rocky canyon walls provide an exhilarating backdrop as rafters navigate the class II and III rapids.

Guides expertly maneuver through the turbulent waters, showcasing the canyon’s natural beauty. Participants can spot wildlife like deer, elk, and birds of prey amidst the stunning scenery.

The river’s twists and turns create an adrenaline-filled adventure, leaving rafters with a true sense of accomplishment. This unique section of the Yellowstone River offers an unparalleled whitewater experience that’s not to be missed.

Enjoy the Class II and III Rapids

As rafters embark on their Yellowstone River adventure, they’ll eagerly anticipate navigating the class II and III rapids. These thrilling sections of whitewater provide an adrenaline-fueled experience as the raft surges through waves and churning currents.

The guided journey offers:

Opportunities to safely swim in the rapids
Stunning views of the surrounding canyon walls
An experienced guide to expertly navigate the technical stretches
The chance to spot wildlife like deer, elk, osprey, and bald eagles along the river’s edge.

Indulge in a Picnic Lunch on an Island

After an exhilarating journey through the rapids, rafters can look forward to a well-deserved picnic lunch on a secluded island.

The guides will lead the group to a peaceful spot, where they’ll set up a delicious spread. Enjoy fresh sandwiches, salads, and seasonal fruit while surrounded by Yellowstone’s stunning natural beauty.

It’s the perfect way to refuel and reflect on the morning’s adventure. With ample time to savor the meal and take in the tranquil setting, rafters can recharge before the return journey downstream.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Trip?

Yes, guests can bring their own snacks and drinks for the trip. However, the provided picnic lunch is included in the tour price and covers the main meal.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility to reschedule the trip if needed without penalty.

Are There Any Photography Opportunities Along the River?

Yes, there are ample photography opportunities along the river. Guests can capture stunning shots of the class II and III rapids, wildlife sightings, and the beautiful Yankee Jim Canyon scenery during the guided journey.

Can I Opt-Out of the Swimming Portion of the Rapids?

Participants can opt-out of the swimming portion of the rapids. The guides will accommodate those who prefer to remain in the raft during the class II and III rapids. Safety gear is still required for those choosing to opt-out.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Rafting Experience?

The minimum age requirement for this rafting experience is 5 years old. Children under 5 years are not permitted to participate, and pregnant women are also advised against taking part in this activity.

The Sum Up

Embark on an unforgettable whitewater adventure on the Yellowstone River. Brave the class II and III rapids of Yankee Jim Canyon, taking in the stunning scenery and spotting local wildlife. Refuel with a delicious picnic lunch on a secluded island. With experienced guides ensuring safety and enjoyment, it’s the perfect outdoor excursion for those seeking excitement in Gardiner.