River cruises through Yellowstone National Park are not directly available within the park boundaries. However, nearby river cruise options combined with land tours offer a unique way to experience Yellowstone’s natural wonders. These cruises typically navigate the Columbia and Snake Rivers, incorporating land excursions to Yellowstone and other national parks. While not cruising through Yellowstone itself, these packages provide a comprehensive exploration of the region’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.
What Are the Options for River Cruises Near Yellowstone National Park?

The primary option for river cruises near Yellowstone National Park is the “National Parks & Legendary Rivers” cruise and land package. This comprehensive tour combines river cruising with land-based exploration:
- Duration: 15 or 16 days
- Start Point: Portland, Oregon
- End Point: Jackson, Wyoming
- River Cruise Portion: Columbia and Snake Rivers
- Land Tour: Includes visits to Glacier National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and Grand Teton National Park
Itinerary Breakdown:
- River cruise along Columbia and Snake Rivers (Days 1-7)
- Land tour to Glacier National Park (Days 8-11)
- Exploration of Yellowstone National Park (Days 12-14)
- Visit to Grand Teton National Park (Day 15)
How Can Visitors Experience Yellowstone’s Waterways?

While river cruises don’t operate within Yellowstone, visitors can still enjoy water-based experiences in the park:
Yellowstone Lake Scenic Cruise
- Operator: Yellowstone National Park Lodges
- Vessel: Lake Queen II
- Duration: 1 hour
- Pricing:
- Adult: $23.60
- Child (3-11): $13.95
- Under 3: Free
What Can You See on the Yellowstone Lake Cruise?
- Lake Area Historical District
- Remains of the SS E.C. Waters
- Wildlife such as eagles, shorebirds, elk, and bison
Note: As of summer 2025, these cruises are temporarily unavailable due to marina upgrades.
What Wildlife Viewing Opportunities Exist on Water-Based Tours?
While river cruises through Yellowstone National Park aren’t available, water-based tours offer unique wildlife viewing opportunities:
Lake Cruises:
- Wildlife: Eagles, shorebirds, elk, bison
- Best Viewing Times: Daytime hours
Land Tours (including river areas):
- Wildlife: Bison, elk, wolves, bears, various bird species
- Prime Viewing Times: Early morning and late afternoon
Wildlife Viewing Guidelines:
- Maintain a safe distance from animals
- Follow guide instructions
- Use binoculars for better viewing without disturbing wildlife
Are There River Rafting Options in Yellowstone National Park?
Commercial river rafting is not available within Yellowstone National Park. However, nearby rivers offer exciting rafting experiences:
Nearby Rafting Options:
- Rivers: Snake River and other surrounding waterways
- Difficulty Levels: Range from calm floats to challenging whitewater rapids
- Group Sizes: Typically 4-12 people
- Safety Measures:
- Mandatory life jacket use
- Experienced guides
- Safety briefings before trips
What Should You Know Before Booking a Rafting Trip?
- Costs: Vary by operator and trip length
- Gear: Usually provided, but bring personal items like water shoes
- Regulations: Permits may be required; adhere to local safety guidelines
How Do River Cruises Complement the Yellowstone Experience?
While not directly cruising through Yellowstone, river cruises in the region offer several benefits:
- Diverse Landscapes: Experience both river ecosystems and Yellowstone’s unique geothermal features
- Comprehensive Exploration: Combine water-based travel with land tours for a well-rounded adventure
- Multiple National Parks: Visit Yellowstone, Glacier, and Grand Teton in one trip
- Guided Expertise: Learn from knowledgeable guides about the region’s history, geology, and wildlife
What Should Visitors Consider When Planning a Yellowstone-Adjacent River Cruise?
- Timing: Book well in advance, especially for peak summer seasons
- Physical Requirements: Be prepared for both river cruising and land-based hiking
- Weather: Pack for varied conditions, as weather can change rapidly in the region
- Photography: Bring appropriate gear for both water and land-based photo opportunities
- Accessibility: Understand that some areas may have limited accessibility for those with mobility issues
How Can Visitors Maximize Their Yellowstone Experience on a River Cruise Package?
- Research: Familiarize yourself with Yellowstone’s key attractions before the land tour portion
- Flexibility: Be open to itinerary changes due to weather or wildlife activity
- Early Risers: Take advantage of early morning tours for the best wildlife viewing
- Respectful Tourism: Follow all park guidelines to protect the natural environment
- Engage with Guides: Ask questions and learn from the expertise of your tour guides
By combining river cruises near Yellowstone with land-based exploration, visitors can enjoy a comprehensive and unique perspective on this iconic national park and its surrounding natural wonders.