Kayaking · Montana
Kayaking in Montana
14 operators across Montana.
Montana paddling
Montana presents an expansive and diverse landscape for paddlers, from the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the vast plains of the east. The state's renowned rivers, like the Flathead, Yellowstone, and Missouri, offer a spectrum of experiences ranging from challenging whitewater rapids to serene flatwater journeys. Kayak and canoe liveries are plentiful near major waterways, providing access to scenic floats through national forests and alongside wildlife refuges. For those seeking instruction or guided excursions, numerous outfitters operate across the state, ensuring both novice and experienced paddlers can safely explore Montana's aquatic treasures.
The northwestern region, dominated by the majestic Glacier National Park and the immense Flathead Lake, is a prime destination for flatwater kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Rivers like the Middle Fork of the Flathead, which borders Glacier National Park, offer exhilarating whitewater rafting opportunities with Class III-IV rapids, drawing adventurers to towns like West Glacier. Further south, the Yellowstone River near Livingston and Gardiner provides a mix of scenic floats and moderate whitewater, making it popular for guided raft trips and personal canoe expeditions. These areas are well-served by local outfitters offering rentals, shuttles, and guided trips for various skill levels.
About kayaking
Recreational flatwater kayaking: lakes, calm rivers, and bays for paddlers of every level.
Quick facts
- Best season
- June through October
Operators
Kayaking operators
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Resources
More to explore in Kayaking
Hand-picked videos and free guides from the community to help you plan your next trip.
Videos worth watching
Hand-picked clips, sorted by what you do.
Kayaking | How to Paddle a Kayak || REI
REI
Kayaking | How to Get in Your Kayak || REI
REI
Kayaking on Lakes – Everything You Need to Know
PaddleTV
Kayaking on Rivers | Paddling for Beginners
PaddleTV
Top 10 Kayaking Tips to Level Up Your Paddling
PaddleTV
How to Train for Kayaking || REI
REI
Guides worth reading
Trip briefs, prep checklists, and how-tos. Free to read.
Free tools
Your free outdoor toolkit
Everything Map
Listings, trails, spots, clubs and public land on a single full-screen map. Switch layers on and off, then tap any point for the details.
Open Everything MapRiver Explorer
Explore named rivers from the USGS hydrography dataset. Filter by water type or whitewater class.
Open River ExplorerRoute Planner
Drop stops on a map and watch distance and drive time add up. Export a GPX or share the link.
Open Route PlannerPaddling Clubs
Browse local clubs with meeting info and how to join, or start your own for free.
Open Paddling ClubsPhoto ID
Point your camera at whatever you found and get a structured identification. No signup.
Open Photo IDGear Checklists
Printable, save-as-you-go packing lists. Tick items off and pull them up on your phone.
Open Gear Checklists
