FAQ

The weather in Montana can change dramatically in a very short time, so we always suggest bringing layers. We provide Pendleton blankets, but additional clothing is never a bad idea. Footwear is flexible as the boat is completely dry inside, however, getting in and out of the boat can sometimes result in wet feet. If we need to make a stop along the river, the terrain can be uneven and rocky, so be sure to wear something sturdy.

Typically, April through October, but weather-dependent early and late season. Our guides are experts on the Yellowstone River, so if you are considering a trip during the shoulder season, reach out to us to discuss water levels.

Scenic trips typically travel from the Point of Rocks Fishing Access Site to the Emigrant Fishing Access Site, however, custom floats may venture to a different stretch of river. Your guide will meet you at the Point of Rocks Fishing Access Site. Because the river flow fluctuates, your trip may take a little more or a little less than 3-4 hours. If you have time constraints, please let your guide know upfront. There are no bathrooms on the river, so it’s a good idea to show up a little early to use the facilities at the launch site and get situated.

This tour will cover about 7 miles of the longest undammed river in the lower 48 states, the Yellowstone River. Montana boasts a wide variety of wildlife, and there is no better place for wildlife viewing than Paradise Valley just outside Livingston, Montana. Guests have seen moose, bears, otters, porcupines, beavers, and lots and lots of eagles and other raptors. Along with stunning views of both the Gallatin National Forest and the Absaroka Mountain Range, Paradise Valley is home to some of Montana’s most spectacular scenery.

Our guides are very flexible, but it’s a safe bet to plan for a 3- to 4-hour tour. That timeframe is from the time you arrive at the boat launch until you arrive at the takeout and retrieve your vehicle. Things like wind and water flow can speed up or slow down a trip. Our guides are expert oarsmen and are prepared for any weather, however, sometimes float time is out of our control due to the elements. If you have any time constraints, please let your guide know during the planning process. If you are interested in a specific stretch of river or float time, you should consider the “Custom Float” option.

Each boat can hold 6 people. There are 2 boats available, so we could accommodate a party of 12.

Yes! Please note that all children 12 and under are required by Montana law to wear life jackets for the entirety of the trip. No exceptions, and we’ll provide the life jackets.

We’ve compiled a great group of guides and spent time training them. These are all long-time river guides, and their tips are greatly appreciated. We recommend at least 15% per boat or $150 per guide if you’re happy with your experience. Feedback is greatly appreciated, as we are always looking to improve the experience.

We are incredibly flexible and would love to work with you on engagements, bridal parties, bachelor parties, birthdays, corporate events, anniversaries, and much more. Please contact us with specifics, and we’ll be happy to arrange the details.

While this trip is very much about relaxing and letting our guides do the work, there is a bit of physical fitness needed.

You must be able to walk on uneven ground to board and debark the boat. A small step stool is available and, in some places, necessary, so you need to be able to lift your leg and step down from a stool safely. There are no weight restrictions, but the guide may ask you to sit in a specific place in the boat for weight distribution.

There are bathrooms available at the boat launch and the takeout, but there are no bathrooms available on the river, so if we need to make a pit stop, you will need to be comfortable walking through varying terrain.

We work with local caterers and can accommodate most allergies.

Yellowstone Wood Boat Tours provides a shuttle service for 1 vehicle per boat. If both boats are being utilized, YWBT will accommodate 3 shuttled vehicles. Additional vehicles can be shuttled for a small fee. Please discuss this with a guide during planning.

Your car will be shuttled while you are on the river, so it will be waiting for you upon the conclusion of the tour.

*YBWT guides will not shuttle any persons

We’ve been hosting river trips for over 30 years, so please let us know your question, and we’ll likely already have a solution for you.