Montana’s landscapes are shaped by its rivers. Carving canyons out of age-old rock formations and offering the backdrop for the history that put this state on the map, these waterways helped make Montana as we know it today. There’s plenty of recreation near the rivers, but have you considered exploring the rivers themselves? With designated river trails across the state, it’s easy to make the water a centerpiece of your adventure. Here are four of Montana’s great river trails:
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Just north of Seeley Lake you’ll find the Clearwater Canoe Trail, a 3.5-mile stretch of river offering a leisurely two-hour float. Surrounded by panoramic views of the Swan Mountains, this trail offers a unique perspective of the landscape and its wildlife, with up-close-and-personal peeks at loons, great blue herons, turtles, beavers and more. While this is technically designated as a canoe trail, motorized boats are allowed at a no-wake speed before the trail meets Seeley Lake. After your float, hop on the 30-minute return hiking trail for more wildlife viewing — and avoid having to coordinate a shuttle.
The Jefferson River Canoe Trail encompasses all 80 miles of the Jefferson River and provides access to campsites, fishing access sites, and Forest Service and BLM lands that hug the water’s edge. The trail retraces a significant section of the Lewis and Clark Expedition’s route, taking river travelers on a waterway that helped shape the West’s history.
Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument
Carving the landscape of north-central Montana is the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument, a 149-mile stretch of river characterized by towering sandstone cliffs where the water has eroded away the ground, creating dramatic canyons. There’s something for every type of adventurer here, from beginner-friendly daylong kayaking trips to multi-day canoe camping trips with overnights at both developed and backcountry campsites. The monument runs from Fort Benton to the James Kipp Recreation Area, but no matter how much of the stretch you travel, you’ll find otherworldly views, hiking opportunities and historic sites along the way.
This 294-mile section of Montana’s longest free-flowing river features scenic views of sandstone bluffs and badlands along its length. Just downstream from the Bighorn River confluence, the Lower Yellowstone River Trail provides access to recreation both in and around the water. For canoers, campers, hikers and floaters, this section of the river is perfect for a float that feels like a best-kept secret.
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