How it works.

ALL of our river rafting trips are privately chartered. That means you get to play with the people you want to, and we work with you to arrange the date, time, and place. Raft trips are wonderful for simple daytime outings…they’re also great for birthdays, weddings, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and more!

Most floats are 2 - 2 1/2 hours, depending on the season. We'll meet you at Emigrant Outpost, launch the raft(s), and your car(s) will be shuttled to the take-out spot.

We book all of our rafting trips one-on-one, so just contact us to start planning yours...All trips are customizable! Full-day floats are available on request.


Fine Print

  • We regularly accommodate groups of 1-10 people. Please contact us for inquiries about groups larger than 10.

  • All trips are subject to change depending on weather, availability, and customer needs.

  • Reservations can be made year-round for raft trips from April through October, weather permitting.

  • Standard "take-off" times are 9:00am and 1:30pm for daytime floats, and 6:00pm for “Sunset Floats.”

  • All guests need to arrive 20 minutes early to complete paperwork and be fitted for life jackets.

  • We meet at Emigrant Outpost in Pray, MT at 70 Murphy Lane.

  • Customers must provide a reliable mobile phone number for us to call or text with confirmed location and time.

  • We provide life jackets. Please plan accordingly for for weather with clothing and other needs.


Montana Conservation License

NEW - All members of your party, age 12 and over, must purchase a Montana Conservation License online BEFORE your scenic float trip with Rowdy River Guides. This license can be stored on your phone or printed, but must be available upon request of MT FWP law enforcement.

This state mandate was put into effect on July 1, 2023 and is a requirement of Montana’s Fish, Wildlife, and Parks. The Conservation License is required to access most state lands including fishing access sites (FAS), wildlife management areas (WMA), and wildlife habitat protection areas (WHPA).  Click on the link above or go directly to https://fwp.mt.gov/buyandapply/conservation-license to purchase your license. You can also download the Montana MyFWP app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Please call 406-444-2950 or email MT FWP at fwplic@mt.gov for more information.


Rates

Pricing for standard trips are as follows:

  • 1-3 people - $350

  • 4-6 people - $425

  • 7-10 people - $550

For larger groups, full-day floats, or other custom trips, please contact us to get a rate estimate for your group.


Cancellations

We require a 48 hour cancellation notice to fully refund the price of your trip, otherwise you will be charged the full price. “No shows” will be charged the full price of the trip. To cancel, you must speak with a staff member directly.



 

View some video footage of a typical raft trip!

Smithsonian Magazine - “The 15 Best Small Towns to Visit in 2022”

 

 

Where it is.

Yellowstone River

The Yellowstone River originates in Yellowstone National Park and flows nearly 700 miles north and northeast through Montana until it meets the Missouri River in North Dakota. Flowing through the broad heart of Paradise Valley, the River offers scenic floats that are great for all ages. Relax and enjoy the grandeur of the mountain landscapes and stunning skies, along with glimpses of birds and other wildlife. 

Paradise Valley

Paradise Valley stretches between the southern outskirts of Livingston, MT and Yankee Jim Canyon, just north of Yellowstone National Park. The Valley is nestled between the Absaroka Range to the east and the Gallatin Range to the west, and is one of the most picturesque spots in Montana. The long, broad nature of Paradise Valley provides never-ending scenic views and sweeping panoramas. The Valley is also known for world-class fly fishing and is home to several natural hot springs.

 

Who's Rowdy?

Rowdy Nelson, river guide

"I started guiding raft trips in the early 1990s and fell in love with the River. Being born and raised on a ranch in beautiful Paradise Valley, I am Montana through and through. I started 'Rowdy River Guides' to fulfill a lifelong dream. It gives me great joy to share this passion with locals and visitors alike.

This river is part of who I am and I know it well. Safety is my utmost concern but, after that, I specialize in customizing the trip to your wishes. Want to get splashed and go through rapids? No problem! Want to stop for a break and take in the scenery? We can do that. Want a romantic evening float? Sure! The point is that, being a small company means that the focus is on you.  -Thanks, Rowdy"