Yellowstone National Park Paddling
Paddle America's First WildernessPaddle Yellowstone’s Wild Core
Why It Feels DifferentYellowstone is colder, higher, and more remote than any other paddling destination in the region. On Yellowstone Lake, geothermal shores, vast open water, and wildlife-rich coastlines combine into a true wilderness experience. At 7,733 feet elevation, Yellowstone Lake is a 132-square-mile lake with 136 miles of shoreline, the largest high-mountain lake in North America.
South of Yellowstone Lake, Lewis and Shoshone Lakes offer quieter alternatives for wilderness paddling. Shoshone Lake is the largest backcountry lake in the Lower 48, accessible only by hiking or paddle-powered craft.
We guide multi-day expeditions and day routes designed for strong intermediate paddlers who want a rare, backcountry-level trip.
The World’s First National Park
Yellowstone Introduction
Yellowstone National Park, founded in 1872, is considered the first National Park in the world and truly was the beginning of the modern conservation movement, the revolutionary idea of preserving land from development simply because it is special.
Long before European explorers arrived, the area in and around Yellowstone was important to many Native American tribes who clearly recognized how special this place was. Its geothermal features and powerful volcanism created obsidian that was highly valued and traded. Tools made from Yellowstone obsidian have been found as far away as Eastern North America. Native tribes came to the area in summer to harvest fish from Yellowstone Lake and hunt migrating animals. Tribes that historically spent time in the area, many of whose descendants live today on tribal lands in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, included the Shoshone, Bannock, Blackfoot, Crow, Flathead, Gros Ventre, Nez Perce, and Arapaho.
John Colter, a member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, was among the first Europeans to travel into what is now Yellowstone and is credited with its “discovery,” though most disbelieved his tales of geysers, boiling pools, and bubbling mud pots. Later expeditions confirmed Colter’s accounts, most notably the Hayden Geological Survey of 1871, which produced stunning photographs by William Henry Jackson and paintings by Thomas Moran. Hayden’s final report to Congress set in motion the preservation of this extraordinary landscape.
On March 1, 1872, President Ulysses S. Grant signed the act creating Yellowstone National Park, “reserved and withdrawn from settlement, occupancy, or sale… and dedicated and set apart as a public park or pleasuring ground for the benefit and enjoyment of the people.” With the passing of the National Park Service Organic Act of 1916, the National Park Service was established, and Yellowstone began to be managed in ways we recognize today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Before You GoFor day tours no previous experience is necessary. We stay close to the West Shore and are mostly in sheltered areas. For multi-day tours we recommend some prior paddling experience and for those wanting to embark on a Yellowstone Lake Expedition we recommend a half day of prep prior to embarking. The lake’s size, elevation, cold water, potential for wind and waves, and remote location make having some basic skills very important.
Moderately to significantly demanding depending on route and conditions. Expect 4–8 miles of paddling daily (2–5 hours), plus camp setup, cooking, and managing gear. Elevation (7,733 feet) affects some people. You don’t need to be an athlete, but basic fitness and outdoor experience help significantly. Multi-day wilderness camping requires comfort with rustic conditions and self-sufficiency.
Yellowstone is more remote, more wild, and more challenging. You’re deeper into wilderness, farther from help, in colder water at higher elevation, and in denser bear country. The rewards match the commitment, with geothermal features you can’t see elsewhere, wildlife in pristine habitat, and solitude that’s increasingly rare. Grand Teton offers spectacular but more accessible paddling; Yellowstone provides genuine wilderness expeditions.
August typically offers warmest water and most stable weather, but it’s also busiest. Late June through July provides excellent conditions with fewer people, though water is colder and afternoon thunderstorms more frequent. September can be spectacular, with fall colors, rutting elk, and fewer visitors, but weather is more variable and early season snowstorms possible. We’ll advise on optimal timing for your priorities.
Yellowstone Lake country holds some of North America’s densest populations of grizzly bears, wolves, and bison. You’ll likely see bison, elk, and various waterfowl. Grizzly sightings are common from the water (maintaining safe distances). Wolves occasionally appear on distant shores. Cutthroat trout spawn in tributary streams. Eagles and osprey nest along the lake. The abundance and diversity of wildlife consistently amazes even experienced naturalists.
Ideally 6 months for summer dates (July–August), earlier if possible. Yellowstone backcountry permits are limited and highly sought. Our CUA allows us to reserve certain campsites, but availability remains constrained. The earlier you book, the more flexibility we have in designing optimal itineraries. Last-minute trips can work so if you did not book in advance please give us a call or email info@jacksonholekayak.com
Ready to get on the water?
Rendezvous River Sports/JH Kayak School is a CUA holder in Yellowstone National Park, a licensed Concessioner in Grand Teton National Park, a Teton County Certified Outfitter, and a Special Use Permit holder in Bridger-Teton National Forest. We are equal opportunity providers.
Email us at info@jacksonholekayak.com or call (307) 733-2471 or stop by our shop at 945 W. Broadway in Jackson.