Kayak / Canoe
Whether it is escaping into a calm cove on a mirrored lake, or negotiating a river's rapids, kayaking in Yellowstone provides one of the best ways to enjoy the scenic splendor of the Park.
- You are required to have a boating permit to kayak inside the Park.
- General safety rules apply to all levels of paddlers.
- A guide’s knowledge, confidence and helpful manner will make your experience more enjoyable.
Overview:
One of the best ways to enjoy the Yellowstone region is to canoe or kayak a beautiful stretch of water. This is a simple way to enjoy stuffing vistas not able to be seen from a car or the road. You can drift along while enjoying sights of elk, moose, badgers, deer, coyotes and eagles.
Sea kayaks are some of the most versatile and efficient watercraft ever designed. Both kayaks and canoes provide safe travel, are easily handled by both novice, and experienced paddlers.
Inside Yellowstone National Park, you will need a boating permit. You an obtain permits at the Lewis Lake Ranger Station, Grant Village Visitor Center, Bridge Bay Marina and the Lake Ranger Station.
For paddlers looking to camp overnight, a backcountry permit is required. Stop in at a ranger station for information on obtaining a permit to camp.
Where to go kayaking/canoeing:
The following are only a couple of recommendations:
Lewis River Channel to Shoshone Lake. Put in and take out at the Lewis Lake boat dock. Do not attempt to cross the open water of Lewis Lake, as there are often sudden storms.
- Skill: beginner/intermediate
- Distance: 9 miles
- Average Time: 4-6 hours
Yellowstone Lake. With over 135 square mile, this pristine high mountain lake offers some of the best inland paddling in the world.
- Skill: beginner/intermediate
- Distance: As far or near as you are willing to paddle
- Average Time: From several hours to several days
Rentals & Fees:
Canoes can be rented at Bay Bridge Marina inside the Park. All of the gateway communities, including Jackson, West Yellowstone, Bozeman, and Cooke City offer canoes and kayak for rent as well as instruction and tours. Fees vary dependent on equipment rented and services provided.
Hire a Guide:
It is easy to arrange private tours and/or lessons. It is always fun to join a friendly expert guide as you explore the area. No experience necessary!
Guides can help you both with your paddling technique and with finding those hidden, special places not seen via any other mode of travel. A guide will be able to match your experience to your interest and level of ability making it a thoroughly enjoyable experience. A guide’s knowledge, confidence and helpful manner will make you comfortable and proficient paddler in no time.
Why do it alone when it can be a much more rewarding experience with a guide!
Safety Precautions:
General safety rules apply to every level of paddlers.
- Since kayaking is an outdoor water sport, wearing a well-fitted wetsuit, life jacket and helmet is imperative.
- Do not skip a pair of UV-Protected sunglasses and waterproof Sun Block.
- Remember that kayaking requires continuous paddling. You can exhaust yourself very soon, if you are not physically fit.
- Thoroughly inspect your equipments before commencing on a kayaking trip.
- Carry a waterproof bag that would help you to store necessities like a fully charged mobile phone, LED torch, First-Aid kit, whistle, compass, drinking water, food etc.
- Learn basic swimming strokes.
- Follow the local rules and regulations of the kayaking areas.
- Understand the International Distress Signals to help you during emergencies.
View the local providers:
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