Things to do / Travel Guide
With views that can't be seen from car or road, canoeing or kayaking down a sparkling stretch of water is both an active option for touring the region and a great way to catch the scenery and wildlife. You'll actually be paddling down some of the same waters that hosted explorers Lewis and Clark, whose famous 1804 expedition in the region was done primarily by boat. And luckily, the Yellowstone area has plenty of places for you to perfect your paddling.
Canoeing and Kayaking in Yellowstone National Park
The high mountain lakes of Yellowstone provide some of the most scenic and diverse grounds for sea kayaking and canoeing in the country. Mountains, forests, meadows, and wildlife provide soothing sightseeing from the waters of Yellowstone, Lewis or Shoshone Lake. Canoes and Kayaks can be rented at one of the lake's marinas. Private boat owners can hit the clear waters independently but are required to obtain a permit from an area marina or visitors' center beforehand. There are also several companies outside Yellowstone that offer half-day or multi-day trips that include kayaking or canoeing on Yellowstone Lake. From Shoshone lake, one of the most popular canoeing and kayaking destinations, visitors can access the remote Shoshone Geyser Basin.
Canoeing and Kayaking, including Jackson Lake in Grand Teton National Park
Arguably one of the most beautiful water bodies in the region, the 15-mile-long Jackson Lake in Grand Teton National Park is a great location for water activities of all kinds. Visitors will be awestruck by views of the towering Tetons all around, particularly beautiful as they reflect on the water, and will enjoy exploring several islands. Other great spots for canoeists include the Snake River Oxbow Bend, String Lake, and Leigh Lake; all great for families with kids. Canoes and kayaks are available for rent at the Colter Bay Marina and Signal Mountain Lodge, as well as in nearby Jackson.
Canoeing and Kayaking on the Snake River, from Jackson Hole, Wyoming
One of the most popular summer time activities in the Jackson Hole area is canoeing and kayaking on Wyoming's largest river, the Snake. The calmer upper sections of the river see several thousand visitors on a busy day, while rafters will find plenty of wild rapids downriver in Snake River Canyon to suit their style. Several Jackson-based kayaking schools offer classes in river kayaking, sea kayaking and canoeing, in addition to rentals and guided trips. “Rubber Ducky” inflatable kayaks are even available for those just getting their start on the water. You'll be treated to stunning views of the Tetons, and likely catch a glimpse of some riverside eagles, beavers, moose, or other wildlife.
Canoeing and Kayaking in Wyoming and Montana
Several rafting companies run half-day and day-long trips down the Gallatin River near Big Sky, about 50 miles north of West Yellowstone. While rafting is their specialty, these companies also offer sit-on-top kayaks for those who like to paddle themselves. There are also trips available on the challenging Madison River northwest of West Yellowstone.
One of the most popular summer activities in Cody involves floating down the class I and II rapids of the Shoshone River. Several rafting companies offer inflatable kayak trips for those who want to control their run down the rapids.
The 19,000-acre Boysen Reservoir, located between Riverton and Thermopolis, is another great lake with lots of available services – a recreation Mecca. Buffalo Bill Reservoir in Buffalo Bill State Park is also a top pick, as is beautiful Spring Meadow Lake near Helena.
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