Is Whitewater Rafting Safe for Kids?

Can Kids Go Whitewater Rafting?

Yes! And they often love it even more than adults do! Because the Yellowstone River has sections with calm, relaxed water and others with exciting whitewater rapids, families with kids of all ages are able to choose a river trip that works for them.

Our Rafting Trip Options Popular With Families:

• Scenic Floats (all ages, including infants): 6 miles, 2 hours. Your guide rows while you relax. Choose a “dry float” for completely calm water or a “wet float” for mild splashes on hot days.
• Classic Half-Day Whitewater (40 lbs+): 8 miles, 2-3 hours. Class II–III rapids with a mix of action and calm floating sections.
• Full-Day Whitewater (40 lbs+): 18 miles, 4-5 hours. Class I–III rapids including Yankee Jim Canyon, with a picnic lunch on the river.

Is it Safe for Kids to Go Rafting?

Safety is our number one priority, which we take very seriously. We understand you’re trusting us with your kids on a moving river.

Here’s how we keep kids (and all guests) safe:

• Every child wears a Coast Guard-approved life jacketsized specifically for their weight, including infants on scenic floats
• Our guides carry rescue equipmentand train year-round in swift-water rescue
• On family trips, we slow the pace,talk through each rapid before you reach it, and keep a closer watch on younger paddlers

Our guides have taken hundreds of families with kids down the Yellowstone River. They know the difference between a child who’s genuinely scared and one who’s loving the adventure. They adjust accordingly.

If you’re unsure, call us at (406) 848-2252. We talk with families every day and can help you decide whether rafting matches your kids’ comfort level and abilities.

Is the River Too Cold for Kids?

Kids and adults love swimming in the Yellowstone. Credit: Manny K // Google Review

Early season can be cold, but by mid to late summer, water temperatures can reach the low 60s, and most families are comfortable in quick-dry clothes. The vast majority of guests who end up in the river voluntarily jump in for a swim.

We provide life jackets to all guests, plus wetsuits, water shoes, and splash jackets to anyone who wants them. Early season trips almost always include wetsuits. 

We’ve found that kids are usually less bothered by cold water than adults. To cover your bases, dress them in layers and bring a warm fleece for after the trip.

Will They Be Bored?

Not on our trips! Whitewater rafting is very exciting, and our section of the river has some of the most stunning scenery you’ll find.

Our more relaxed, scenic floats offer plenty to see: osprey, elk, eagles, deer and other animals along the cottonwood-lined banks. The Gallatin and Absaroka mountain ranges frame the views on either side. Guides point out wildlife and your family can simply relax while they do all the rowing.

Choose the right trip for your family and boredom won’t be an issue. A teenager expecting extreme adventure won’t love a mellow float. A nervous child won’t enjoy being pushed into whitewater they’re not ready for. 

Common Questions We Hear From Parents

Are there bathroom breaks?

Half-day trips don’t have bathroom stops once you’re on the river. We ask everyone to use the facilities before we leave. The full-day trip includes a lunch stop with sandwiches, chips, fruit, cookies, plus time to stretch and use the restroom.

What if my child wants to stop mid-trip?

It’s unfortunately not possible. Once you’re on the river, you’re on until we reach the take-out. Have an honest conversation with your kids beforehand so they understand it’s a real adventure, how long it will take, and when you’ll be finished.

Does my child need to know how to swim?

Kids should be comfortable in or near water, but they don’t need to be strong swimmers. For scenic floats with infants and toddlers, the calm water and life jackets keep everyone safe. Children who are scared of water will struggle no matter how safe the trip is.

Where do kids sit in the raft?

We position younger or nervous kids in the middle near the guide. Confident swimmers and older kids can take the front positions where they’ll get wet and feel more action.

What to Bring for Kids

• Secure sunglasses with a retainer strap
• Sunscreen
• Water bottle
• Small snacks like granola bars
• Waterproof camera if you want photos
• Change of warm clothes for after
• Towel

Leave these behind: phones, cotton clothing, flip-flops, and car keys (leave them in our office).

Ready to Book a Kid-Friendly Rafting Trip?

Rafting with kids is memorable because it’s real adventure in a unique environment. It’s challenging enough to feel fun, guided enough to be safe, and special enough that kids talk about it for years.

Choose the rafting trip that matches your youngest or most hesitant child’s abilities. You can always do bigger rapids next time!