Family Friendly Gallatin River Whitewater Rafting
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Family Friendly Gallatin River Whitewater Rafting

Active
(316 reviews)
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Looking for some whitewater while avoiding white-knuckle rapids? The 3 hour Upper Half Day trip is perfect for families, first-timers who are timid, or for those who aren’t strong swimmers – especially in June when we have high water. Enjoy fun rapids such as Hilarity Hole, Screaming Left, and Killer Fang. These rapids offer plenty of splashes and relatively easy navigation without the challenge of long rapids like the Mad Mile. This trip is packed with splashes and smiles!

Available options

Rafting Trip

What's included

Wetsuits, Booties, Splash Top, Helmet, Paddle

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

The Gallatin offers you the chance to view incredible scenery and paddle through some fun, challenging, and continuous whitewater.

2

The entirety of the rafting trip will be within Gallatin National Forest. Mountain vistas, dense forest, and wildlife.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8
13 reviews
5★
11
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.9
303 reviews
5★
289
4★
10
3★
1
2★
0
1★
3

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Mile Marker 64 on HWY 191

About Big Sky

Big Sky, Montana, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering year-round activities in a stunning mountain setting. Known for its world-class skiing, hiking, and breathtaking landscapes, it's a destination that combines adventure with tranquility.

Top Attractions

Big Sky Resort

Big Sky Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in the world, offering over 5,800 acres of skiable terrain, 300 days of sunshine per year, and a variety of winter and summer activities.

Adventure Full day or multiple days Expensive (lift tickets, lessons, equipment rentals)

Lone Peak

Lone Peak is the highest point in the Big Sky area, offering stunning views and challenging hiking trails.

Nature Half day to full day Free

Gallatin River

The Gallatin River is a popular spot for fishing, rafting, and kayaking, offering stunning scenery and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Nature Half day to full day Free to expensive (depending on guided tours and equipment rentals)

Ousel Falls Trail

The Ousel Falls Trail is a scenic hike leading to a beautiful waterfall, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Nature 2-3 hours Free

Moonlight Basin

Moonlight Basin is an adjacent area to Big Sky Resort, offering additional skiing, hiking, and mountain biking opportunities.

Adventure Full day or multiple days Expensive (lift tickets, lessons, equipment rentals)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bison Burger

A juicy burger made from locally sourced bison, often topped with cheese, vegetables, and special sauces.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat, can be made gluten-free

Huckleberry Pie

A delicious pie made with huckleberries, a local wild berry that grows in the mountains.

Dessert Vegetarian, contains gluten

Trout

Freshly caught trout, often grilled or fried, served with local vegetables and sides.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, can be gluten-free

Popular Activities

Skiing Snowboarding Hiking Mountain biking Whitewater rafting Spa treatments Scenic drives Fishing

Best Time to Visit

December to March, June to August

Winter is the peak time for skiing and snowboarding, while summer offers the best conditions for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. The crowds are high during these periods, but the weather is ideal for the main attractions.

-10 to 5°C (winter), 15 to 30°C (summer) 14 to 41°F (winter), 59 to 86°F (summer)

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone (MT), GMT-7 (Standard Time), GMT-6 (Daylight Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in outdoor activities

Big Sky is a safe destination with low crime rates, but outdoor activities can pose risks. Always follow safety guidelines and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in the backcountry
  • • Follow safety guidelines for outdoor activities
  • • Carry a map, compass, and emergency supplies when hiking or skiing

Getting there

By air
  • Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport • 45 miles (72 km) from Big Sky

Getting around

Public transport

Shuttle services are available for transportation between Big Sky and Bozeman Airport, as well as within the resort area.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Big Sky Resort Area Meadow Village Mountain Village

Day trips

Yellowstone National Park
50 miles (80 km) from Big Sky • Full day

Yellowstone National Park is a world-renowned national park offering stunning landscapes, geothermal features, and abundant wildlife.

Bozeman
45 miles (72 km) from Big Sky • Half day to full day

Bozeman is a charming town offering a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities.

West Yellowstone
60 miles (97 km) from Big Sky • Full day

West Yellowstone is a gateway to Yellowstone National Park, offering a variety of outdoor activities and attractions.

Festivals

Big Sky Bluegrass Festival • July Big Sky Wine Festival • August Winterfest • February

Pro tips

  • Visit in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for fewer crowds and lower prices
  • Book accommodations, lift tickets, and tours in advance, especially during peak seasons
  • Dress in layers for changing mountain weather
  • Rent a car for flexibility and easy access to outdoor activities
  • Try local specialties like bison, trout, and huckleberry desserts
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 13-99
1
Childs
Age 6-12
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 10
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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