Where are you located?
We have two locations to better serve our customers, one in the town of Gardiner, Montana and one at Chico Hot Springs Resort.
Chico Hot Springs Resort in Paradise Valley
Located half hour north of Yellowstone National Park and a half hour south of Livingston. You will find our office between the gift shop and horse barn at Chico. Physical address for GPS is: 1 Chico Rd. Pray, MT 59065
Gardiner, Montana – north entrance of Yellowstone Park
Located at 232 Park Street in Gardiner, Montana. Our office overlooks Yellowstone National Park. Physical address for GPS is: 232 Park Street Gardiner, MT 59030
The nearest airport is Gallatin Field (BZN) in Bozeman, Montana (about 80 miles from Gardiner).
What time do we need to arrive before our trip?
Check in is a half hour before the trip departure (ex: if your trip time is 3:00, please check in at 2:30). If you are running late please call us as soon as possible.
Do I need experience?
No, the Yellowstone River is a fun river for the whole family but it is not technical. Anyone who is physically able will paddle and anyone who is too young or unable to paddle can sit in the middle or towards the back.
Age Limits?
Whitewater: Adults (of all ages) and Children 6 years old or 40lbs.
Scenic: ALL ages are welcome. This is a “dry” trip (no whitewater) and there is no paddling required, let us do the work.
What gear should I bring?
Whitewater: All gear is included, lifejacket, booties, splash jacket and wet suit (if needed). A towel and change of clothes is recommended for your comfort if you are not staying at Chico Hot Springs Resort or near by.
Scenic trips: Do not require any gear but we encourage a jacket or sweatshirt if it is cooler out.
Horseback rides: We require closed toe shoes and recommend long pants.
What else can I bring?
Whitewater: Be sure to apply sunscreen before your trip and a change of clothes and a towel if you are not staying at Chico Hot Springs Resort or near by. You are welcome to bring your water bottle, sunglasses and a waterproof camera (at your own risk) we encourage disposable cameras.
Scenic: Trips are “dry” (no whitewater). You are welcome to bring refreshments, snacks, cameras (of all types), sunglasses and wear your regular clothes. As for all trips, horseback riding, whitewater and scenic we encourage sunscreen!
What do I need to know about horseback riding?
Chico Horse Barn offers many different trips from 1 hour to Half Day rides with lunch, Moonlight Rides, Full Day Rides in Yellowstone and even pony rides for your Little Buckaroos in training.
The age limit is 6 years old and up. Weight requirement is 225 and under. We recommend long pants and require closed toe shoes for your safety. You are welcome to bring water and your camera (at your own risk).
The Chico Horse Barn takes payment in cash, credit cards and room charge. You may tip your guide at the end of the ride.
May I bring my dog?
Yes, we are dog lovers too, so in order to serve you and to be courteous to other guests we will charge a private boat fee. This is only available on the Scenic Float but ensures you to be carefree on your own boat and enjoy the river with the four legged members of your family.
Please call or email for information.
Will there be photos of our trip?
Yes, we will have a photographer for the Whitewater Adventure. Pictures will be available for viewing and to order after your trip.
Scenic guests may bring their own camera.
Cancellation Policy?
We do require a 48-hour cancellation! Any cancellation that is not 48 hours before your scheduled departure will be charged the total cost of the trip. No shows will be charged the full price of the trip!
PLEASE give us a call if you are expecting a delay or are not able to go on the day of your scheduled trip. We would be happy to reschedule our trip. Phone 406-PAC-6505
