Montana weather can change quickly, so layers are always a good idea regardless of the forecast. The boat is completely dry, so waterproof footwear is not required, but getting in and out of the boat can sometimes result in wet feet. If we stop along the river, the terrain can be uneven and rocky, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

FAQ

Q: Is the Yellowstone River calm? Will I get wet inside the boat?

Yes, the stretch of river we float is calm and suitable for all ages and experience levels. The wooden boats are designed to keep you completely dry during the float, and there are no rapids on this section of the Yellowstone River.

Q: What are the qualifications of your guides?

Our guides are long-time river professionals and local experts with deep knowledge of the Yellowstone River, Paradise Valley, and the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Guide backgrounds include environmental biology, forest ecology, Montana history, and decades of experience on the river. Every guide is trained in interpretive naturalist communication and river safety.

Q: How close are your tours to Yellowstone National Park?

Our tours operate on the Yellowstone River in Paradise Valley, just outside Livingston, Montana, which sits at the northern gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Many of our guests combine a float with a visit to the park, as the two are a natural fit and only about an hour apart by car.

Q: How do I book a trip?

All trips are booked through direct inquiry. You can reach us by phone at 406-223-0914, by email at bookit@yellowstonewoodboattours.com, or through the contact form on our website. We personally plan each trip with you to make sure the timing, group size, and experience are exactly right.

Q: How far in advance should I book?

For peak summer dates in June, July, and August, we recommend booking several weeks to a couple of months in advance, especially for groups and special events. Shoulder-season trips in May, September, and October can sometimes be arranged on shorter notice, but contacting us early is always the better option.

Q: What is included in the price?

All trips include your expert interpretive guide, the wooden boat, gourmet food specific to your trip type, bottled water, soft drinks, tonics, binoculars, bird-watching guides, and plant and wildlife identification books. Shuttle service for one vehicle per boat is also included. Gratuity for your guide is not included but is warmly appreciated.

Q: What is your cancellation or weather policy?

Please contact us directly when booking so we can walk you through our current cancellation terms and what to expect if weather or river conditions require a change. Our guides monitor conditions closely and will be in touch if anything affects your trip.

Q: Are gift certificates available?

Please contact us directly at 406-223-0914 or bookit@yellowstonewoodboattours.com to ask about gifting options. A wooden boat float on the Yellowstone River makes a memorable gift for anniversaries, birthdays, holidays, and any occasion worth celebrating.

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What You Need to Know

Welcome to our FAQ page, where we aim to answer all your questions about our unique and unforgettable boat tours. Our expertly crafted wooden boats, knowledgeable guides, and stunning natural surroundings ensure that your experience with us will be nothing short of extraordinary. Read on to discover everything you need to know before embarking on your adventure with us.

Relaxing and Beautiful

Julie was an amazing tour guide with so much charisma and knowledge on the area. We spotted many Bald Eagles, some deer, and even a couple of raccoons which was funny. The tour was smooth sailing down the glistening Yellowstone River which was such a relaxing and beautiful start to our morning. I would recommend this wooden boat tour, and Julie specifically, to absolutely everyone who wants to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views that the river has to offer.

– Emily B., Google

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a wooden boat tour different from a standard float trip?

Our custom-built 20-foot wooden boats are handcrafted one-of-a-kind vessels designed for comfort, stability, and style. Unlike rubber raft trips, you stay completely dry, float at a relaxed pace with picnic-style seating, and enjoy gourmet food and expert interpretive guiding throughout the trip. It is a scenic, immersive experience rather than a whitewater adventure.

What will I see on the trip?

You will float approximately 7 miles of the Yellowstone River through Paradise Valley, with views of the Gallatin National Forest and the Absaroka Mountain Range. Guests commonly see Bald Eagles and other raptors, a wide variety of other bird life, whitetail & mule deer, and frequently see otters, moose, elk and occasionally beavers & black bears. Your guide will provide expert interpretation on wildlife, geology, natural history, and local ecology throughout the trip.

FAQ

What You Need to Know

Relaxing and Beautiful

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a wooden boat tour different from a standard float trip?

What will I see on the trip?

Is the Yellowstone River calm? Will I get wet inside the boat?

What are the qualifications of your guides?

How close are your tours to Yellowstone National Park?

How do I book a trip?

How far in advance should I book?

What is included in the price?

What is your cancellation or weather policy?

Are gift certificates available?

Where do I meet my guide?

How long is a typical trip?

What should I wear?

What should I bring on the day of my trip?

How does the vehicle shuttle work?

Can I bring my own wine, beer, or spirits?

What if I have food allergies or dietary restrictions?

How many guests can you accommodate?

Do you accommodate children?

What are the physical requirements for the trip?

Should I tip my guide?

Still have questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a wooden boat tour different from a standard float trip?

What will I see on the trip?

Is the Yellowstone River calm? Will I get wet inside the boat?

What are the qualifications of your guides?

How close are your tours to Yellowstone National Park?

How do I book a trip?

How far in advance should I book?

What is included in the price?

What is your cancellation or weather policy?

Are gift certificates available?

Where do I meet my guide?

How long is a typical trip?

What should I wear?

What should I bring on the day of my trip?

How does the vehicle shuttle work?

Can I bring my own wine, beer, or spirits?

What if I have food allergies or dietary restrictions?

How many guests can you accommodate?

Do you accommodate children?

What are the physical requirements for the trip?

Should I tip my guide?

Still have questions?

Contact Us