Yellowstone National Park offers breathtaking landscapes and diverse waterways for kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts. While the park itself doesn’t provide rentals, several outfitters in nearby areas offer guided tours and equipment. These outfitters, including Shurr Adventures and Yellowstone Hiking Guides, provide high-quality gear, expert guides, and unique experiences on Yellowstone Lake and surrounding waters. This guide explores the top kayaking and canoeing options near Yellowstone, detailing tour packages, rental information, and essential tips for a memorable paddling adventure.
What Are the Top Kayaking and Canoeing Outfitters Near Yellowstone National Park?
Shurr Adventures
Shurr Adventures stands out as a premier kayaking outfitter near Yellowstone National Park. Here’s what you need to know:
- Location: Based near Yellowstone Lake
- Contact: Website
- Trip Advisor Ranking: #1
What Does Shurr Adventures Offer?
- Guided kayak tours on Yellowstone Lake
- Morning and sunset tour options
- Kayak/hiking combo tours
- Small group sizes for personalized experiences
What Are the Prices for Shurr Adventures Tours?
- Morning adventure: $125 per adult, $105 for children under 12
- Sunset adventure: $115 per adult, $100 for children under 12
Yellowstone Hiking Guides
Another excellent option for kayaking near Yellowstone is Yellowstone Hiking Guides. Let’s explore their offerings:
- Location: Tours launch from Grant Village Marina
- Contact: Website
What Packages Does Yellowstone Hiking Guides Provide?
- Guided kayak tours on Yellowstone Lake
- Morning tours to West Thumb Geyser Basin
- All-inclusive packages with gear and meals
How Much Do Yellowstone Hiking Guides Tours Cost?
- $127 per person, including all paddle gear, safety devices, morning snack, and picnic lunch
Jackson Hole Outfitters
For those looking to explore areas near Yellowstone, Jackson Hole offers several outfitters:
- Location: Various locations in Jackson Hole
- Contact: Jackson Hole Wy
What Types of Trips Do Jackson Hole Outfitters Offer?
- Full, half-day, and overnight excursions
- Guided trips on Snake River, Jenny Lake, Slide Lake, and Gros Ventre River
- Customizable tours for different skill levels
What Are the Most Popular Kayaking Trips Near Yellowstone?
Lewis River Channel to Shoshone Lake
- Start Point: Lewis Lake boat dock
- Distance: Approximately 9 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Caution: Potential for sudden storms on Lewis Lake
Yellowstone Lake
- Start Points: Various, including Grant Village Marina
- Distance: Varies, with options for multi-day paddles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Weather Considerations: High winds and choppy waters possible
Snake River
- Route: Jackson Lake Dam to Palisades Reservoir
- Difficulty: Varies from relaxing to technical (Class II and III rapids in Snake River Canyon)
- Best Section for Canoeing: Oxbow Bend stretch in Grand Teton National Park
What Amenities Do Kayaking and Canoeing Outfitters Provide?
| Outfitter | Parking | Restrooms | Equipment | Safety Measures | Other Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shurr Adventures | Available near meeting points | Primitive, pack-out waste | High-end kayaks | ACA certified guides, bear spray, satellite phones | Morning snack, hot drink, double kayaks with rudders |
| Yellowstone Hiking Guides | Available on Grant Marina Road | Primitive on trail | High-quality paddle gear | ACA certified guides, WFA, bear spray, rescue kits | Morning snack, hot drink, picnic lunch |
What Should You Know About Guided Canoeing Tours in Yellowstone?
Shurr Adventures Tours
- Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours of paddling time
- Group Size: Smallest on the lake
- Unique Features:
- Paddle past West Thumb and Potts Geyser basins
- Learn about lake wildlife and geology from naturalist guides
- Morning and sunset options to avoid high winds and thunderstorms
Yellowstone Hiking Guides Tours
- Duration: 5-6 miles, ending around noon
- Group Size: 1:6 guide to guest ratio, maximum 24 paddlers in two groups
- Unique Features:
- Early launch for wildlife spotting
- ACA certified guides with safety gear
- Launch from Grant Village Marina to West Thumb Geyser Basin
What Are the Seasonal Considerations for Kayaking Near Yellowstone?
- Lewis Lake: Avoid crossing open water due to storm risks
- Yellowstone Lake: Weather can change suddenly; morning and sunset tours recommended
- Snake River: Best canoeing in Oxbow Bend stretch during summer months
How Can You Ensure Safety While Kayaking Near Yellowstone?
- Choose reputable outfitters with certified guides
- Always wear provided safety gear
- Be aware of weather conditions and forecasts
- Follow guide instructions and park regulations
- Bring appropriate clothing and sun protection
- Stay hydrated and bring snacks
- Inform someone of your trip plans if going solo
By following these guidelines and choosing a reliable outfitter, you can enjoy a safe and memorable kayaking or canoeing experience near Yellowstone National Park. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, the diverse waterways and stunning scenery offer something for everyone.
References:
1. Yellowstone Park Net – Kayak, Canoe & SUP
2. Shurr Adventures – Yellowstone Kayaking and Hiking Tours
3. Jackson Hole Wy – Canoeing & Kayaking in Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks
4. Yellowstone Hiking Guides – Sea Kayak Yellowstone Lake