There is no easy way to portage the Canyon Ferry Dam, so floaters continuing downstream from Canyon Ferry Lake will need to arrange a car portage. Adventure Bound Canoe Some highlights include Native American tepee rings, petroglyphs, narrow slot canyons, Hole-in-the-wall rock formation, plant identification, wildlife viewing and USGS markers for L&C campsites. . 124.6 Mokane Access on left. Further downstream (below Great Falls), canoes become popular for groups or where two people are in the boatespecially below Fort Benton. You can register at the Missouri Breaks Interpretive Center in Fort Benton, Fort Benton Canoe Launch, Fort Benton Motorboat Launch, Wood Bottom, Coal Banks Landing and Judith Landing. The scenery was magnificent, the food was great, and the company was the best you could ask for. The Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument contains a spectacular array of biological, geological, and historical objects of interest. Missouri River Outfitters - Montana's Official Tourism, Travel Upper Missouri River Guides | Family River Trip Vacations in Montana This is the perfect quick trip if you are limited on time but still to experience the solace and beauty of the Upper Missouri River. The American Fur Company was finally successful in opening the upper river to trade in 1831. Piggs Landing Access, 3.8 miles up Fishing River. Schimmel City Access, 2.8 miles up Platte River. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS 391.3 Platte River, left. Why the Breaks? In this section, the Missouri River receives protection and becomes a National Wild and Scenic River. Other unusual species in the river are the endangered pallid sturgeon and shovel nose sturgeon. Congress further stated that the river, with its immediate environments, possesses outstanding scenic, recreational, geological, fish and wildlife, historic, cultural, and other similar values. Well, as Rob once said at a campsite with a particularly impressive grove of mature cottonwood trees on a misty morning, I hear more birds than some jungles I have been in! Montanas Badlands aka The Missouri River Breaks is teaming with bird life during the spring, from resident prairie species and raptors to magnificent migratory species. Multiple Day: Per person, per day, no additional boat fee. We are happy to help you plan the best itinerary for you based on what areas of the Lewis & Clark Trail you would like to see. Montana Riv. Per site, per night. 530.6 Langdon Bend Access on left. You'll launch at Coal Banks Landing, spend nights at Eagle Creek, Hole in the Wall and Slaughter River, and take out at Judith Landing. And now it's official: Adventure Bound Canoe and Missouri River Outfitters have been dating since 1990. We pride ourselves on offering a safe, fun, and educational experience for all of our guests. 406-728-7609 Email Us Policies Both sunrise and sunset provide unrivaled natural light shows on the cliff faces. 166.3 Plowboy Bend CA ends. Generally only taken by snagging in the spring during upstream spawning runs, they are excellent table fare. 339.5 Fort Osage Access. Our Missouri River outfitting is unrivaled and you will notice a difference. Erosion also washed away the soft sediments from around the harder volcanic materials that were extruded into cracks in the shales and sandstones. Both vegetation and wildlife in this area are dependent upon normal fluctuations in water height and silt load and the river's tendency to meander. 164.0 Marion Bottoms Conservation Atea, tight, begins. Mornings along the riverbank are undeniably peaceful and inspiring. 27.5 Blanchette Landing Access ends. specializes in supporting all of our customers by offering fully guided tours, river rentals, a retail store, and vehicle shuttles.May be a small group looking for a quiet vacation or a larger group needing logistical support, we are here to help. Within the monument you can float the river, fish, hike, hunt, drive for pleasure, find a little solitude, enjoy a sense of exploration in a remote setting or simply marvel at the variety of natural beauty. We specialize in private and custom canoe trips of all sizes. The BLMs Special Recreation Permit policy defines commercial use in several ways. High flows recharge groundwater to levels needed by riparian vegetation and deposit nutrient rich soils across bottom lands. The professional conduct of the guides, their skill in communicating with all of us, all day, the wonderful meals, relaxed evenings, great /clean equipment, the photos, constant interaction re the history, hikes, swimming and most of all the laughter as they worked together made for a . The information in this guide is organized by "river mile" which is the distance along the river traveling downstream from Fort Benton (mile 0), to the Judith Landing Public Access Site and Campground (mile 88.5). Multi-day Canoe Trips - Upper Missouri River Guides Join us on a fully guided multi day trip (3-6 day) or a do-it-yourself rent and shuttle package. Trip Cancellation Policy & Guest Responsibility. 508.5 H.F Thurnau Access. Here are 5 great floats that, mid-summer, are suitable for most skill levels and water craft. This page serves as a collection of gathered steamboat history and reference point for additional research and learning if you are interested. Immerse yourself in this magnificent, wild landscape without hassle or worry. The small size of this area, along with terrain that opens to major off-site influences just beyond its boundaries, limits the opportunities for outstanding solitude to isolated areas in the deeper drainages. Explore this remote area of Montana, enjoy the solace of the river and absorb the history and wildlife. Before this magnificent river corridor was a national monument, it was first designated a National Wild and Scenic River. We will take our time, explore and enjoy the rich wildlife of this river corridor. A day trip is also ideal for families with small children who might not be ready for several days of camping. The area also lacks outstanding opportunities for primitive recreation, the scenic quality is lacking for designation. The UMNWSR boundary starts at Fort Benton, Montana, and runs 149 miles downstream ending at the James Kipp Recreation Area. Throughout this trip, you will have plenty of opportunities for on-shore exploration. Celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument by joining the Friends of the Missouri Breaks Monument's Boats in the Breaks canoe and kayak race on Saturday, July 17, 2021. Hope you can join us! In other words, leave the float tube at home if planning to fish or float the Missouri. on everything from the Lewis and Clark Expedition to resources for float trips on the Missouri Breaks (he had packets prepared containing resources . At a Christmas party in 1850, Fort Clay was renamed Fort Benton. 148.2 Cedar Creek, left. Join us for a guided Montana canoe trip of a lifetime or take advantage of our river rental and shuttles to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Missouri River for yourself. The country is remote. We are the longest run outfitter in Montana, and have been providing experiences for over 60 years. Just like the oceans of today, sandstone layers were deposited along shorelines and river deltas. Let us help you make the job of organizing easier! A Wild Life on the Upper Missouri River - Montana Living 477.0 Payne Landing Access on left. Robert made his first canoe trip down the Missouri River in 2016 and has enjoyed returning to float with his friend Haley and Brett almost every year since. The Badlands are generally less travelled and have only one developed campsite. The Upper Missouri River White Cliffs are described in the Lewis and Clark Journals as "scenes of visionary enchantment". Everyone loved our trip so much. River Guides - Central Montana Linda and I, with our friends Jack and Lyndi, enjoyed every minute of the too-short 60 miles on the river and shore. You can also findthe downloadable maps in thePublic Room. At Missouri River Outfitters, we have always been committed to preserving the natural beauty of the Missouri River and the surrounding environment. Difficult canoe/kayak access due to high bank. Many landowners in this area are second and third generation central Montana ranchers. It begins at Fort Benton and ends at the James Kipp State Park, some 150 miles in length. ." The WSA contains few opportunities for outstanding solitude and primitive recreation. There is a reason Montana is called the Big Sky State. Ah, that moment you finally lay down in your tent, snuggle in your sleeping bag, breathe deep and peer into the endless sea of flickering stars above. This treaty established boundaries and provided for railroads, roads, telegraph lines and military post access across what is now northern Montana. All visitors are encouraged to carry a map and have basic land navigation skills before exploring the remote areas of the monument. Vehicle supported hiking walking or van tours can be catered for all abilities 1-3 days. We saw lots of wildlife, ate a great lunch, and Nicolle was very patient as we figured out the tandem kayak. Fishing guides use drift boats or large NRS or Aire Rafts with fishing frames. 130.3 Smokey Waters CA ends. Whether youre planning a family vacation, a corporate team-building event, or a bachelorette party, we can create a. to ensure that your adventure is everything you want it to be. The stark, rugged badlands below Judith Landing present still another vista. Canoeing the Upper Missouri River is like floating through history. However, the area is very scenic and rugged, combining steep slopes with narrow ridges. We will ensure your trip is safe and memorable. A very special place in the cross-section of the river valley is the cliff faces. A lock ( However the river is a series of alternating free floating stretches interrupted by lakes backed up behind major dams. This is an electronic reprint of a Missouri Department of Conservation document. Principal river launch points are: Fort Benton Canoe Launch (mile 0), Fort Benton Motorboat Launch (mile 1), Wood Bottom (mile 20.3), Coal Banks Landing (mile 41.5), Judith Landing (mile 88.5), and James Kipp Recreation Area (mile 149). We have 3 and 4 seater canoes, kid-friendly food options and games! About 3,500 acres of the WSA are within the UMNWSR corridor. Of all Montana river trips, this is one of the absolute best. How to Plan a Missouri River Breaks Trip The river is calling. When. In addition to those mentioned above, you might also see pronghorn antelope, coyotes, mountain lions, red fox, badger, raccoon, skunk, beaver, porcupine, muskrat, numerous waterfowl, songbirds, raptors and reptiles. After you have researched the river's rules and regulations you need to plan your river route. There are 10 dams located on the Missouri River in Montana and another 5 dams located in North Dakota and South Dakota. This WSA covers 4,800 acres on the north side of the Missouri River. 351.6 Liberty Bend Conservation Area, right, begins. LockA locked padlock Montanas Upper Missouri River is a wilderness canoe adventure taking you into the heart of central Montana by way of a mild, meandering river. ." They led an isolated existence and were extremely vulnerable to attacks by hostile Indians. Watson Access, 1.5 miles up Nishnabotna River. 352.6 La Benite Park. The Upper Missouri National Wild and Scenic River, the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, six Wilderness Study Areas (WSAs), the Nez Perce National Historic Trail, the Missouri Breaks Back Country Byway, and the Cow Creek Area of Critical Environmental Concern all contribute to the fascinating framework for the Upper Missouri River Breaks. Woodhawk Creek is named for the men who set up shop on the banks of the Missouri to supply the steamboats with fuel-wood for their boilers, which consumed as many as twenty-five to thirty cords per day (a cord is basically the equivalent of the amount of wood that, when chopped, can fill the bed of a pick up truck). The area is rich in historical significance, including Kid Curry's outlaw hideaway. As we enter the Charles M. Russell Wildlife Refuge, wildlife viewing opportunities abound. The last commercial steamboat arrived there in 1890. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Poor canoe/kayak access. 28.2 River Woods CA ends. Fresh, hearty and creative. The staff and our fellow travelers made it a trip to remember! They may, depending on flow rate, be a little long for rafts and drift boats, so be sure to check with local sources of information regarding estimating floating times. 363.0 Riverfront Park Access. 77.8 Boeuf Creek, right. Colters Landing Access, 1.4 miles up Boeuf Creek. 342.0 Cooley Lake Conservation Area, left, begins. Well, go camping in a wild, remote place! This 8,100 acre WSA is on the south side of the Missouri River. 68.0 Washington City Access (Washington). 195.4 Franklin Island Conservation Atea, left, begins. 49.8 Howell Island Conservation Area, right, begins. Upper Missouri River Guides provide guided canoe float trips along the full 149 mile stretch of the Upper Missouri National Wild and Scenic River. Missouri River Outfitters (Fort Benton) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go $ USD. Even though we were novices, the Guides were patient and understanding. In 1965, by a group of Fort Benton Educators, Missouri River Outfitters(MRO), was established to promote education, recreation, and the love for this area. Providence Access, 1.4 miles up Perche Creek. 4 Day - White Cliffs - Missouri River Outfitters The badlands section comprises a nearly 70-mile stretch where the river seems to have broken through the surrounding rough uplands, hence the famed title, the Missouri Breaks. 250.0 Grand River, left. 16.3 Pelican Island Natural Area. Anglers "fishing on top each other" is an unofficial no-no on the Missouri, and fishing to close to another boat (especially a licensed fishing guide) is likely to earn some well-deserved nasty remarks. Robert Wilson is a teacher and biologist from Salt Lake City. The food was greatand Jenice's cakes -- the website was right, you won't lose weight on this trip. We have a pre-trip meeting the day prior to your launch date at 6pm outside the Grand Union (Unless you have alternative or custom arrangements) At the pre-trip meeting, we make introductions, go over last minute questions, logistics and hand out dry bags for you to pack your personal gear. The Upper Missouri River, Wild & Scenic Section, winds its way through Montana. We'll never be able to thank them enough. Travel planning: The closest airport to fly in/out of would be Great Falls, MT. Their stewardship of these lands has contributed greatly to maintaining the area's unique qualities and values. At places, large intrusive plugs capture the traveler's attention. Congress designated 149 miles of the Upper Missouri (UMNWSR) as a component of the National Wild and Scenic River System in 1976, calling it an irreplaceable legacy of the historic American west. The Missouri begins 250 miles upstream of Fort Benton at Three Forks, where the Madison, Gallatin and Jefferson rivers join after bringing water down from the Continental Divide. We serve fresh, organic coffee before a hearty, homemade breakfast. Our experienced guides will work with you to plan every detail of your trip, from the route and duration to the meals and extra activities. 516.0 Deroin Bend CA ends. 341.6 Private land ends, and Cooley Lake CA begins. Along with that, we have a quiet waters policy and do not run motored gear boats and loud motors. The 4-day itinerary paddles the same section of river as the 3-day trip. 486.3 Bob Brown Conservation Area, left, begins. 188.8 Diana Bend CA begins. The steamboats arrived just in time to supply the gold camps in southwest Montana and northern Idaho. In 1845, Fort Chardon was abandoned and Fort Lewis was established a few miles above Fort Benton. From there we will shuttle you about an hour to the put-in location (Coal Banks) While boats are getting loaded you will have a brief safety talk and paddling instructions. Missouri River I Mile by Mile Description. A delicious lunch was served riverside. You will enjoy paddling the gentle and meandering current through breath taking White Cliffs of Eagle sandstone and igneous rock formations. Since 1994, our guide & outfitting service has offered guided canoe trips on the Upper Missouri River. 52.2 Weldon Spring CA ends, and private land begins. Click Here for BLM Rules and regulations for the Upper Missouri River Breaks 2. All guest speakers are potentially subject to change given unforeseen circumstances. Generally the free flowing areas and lakes are 150 miles or longer. Guided Canoeing, Hiking and Camping with historical Interpretations, Camping Equipment to include 4-Person dome tents (2 adults), sleeping pad and Camp Chair, River equipment to include tandem canoes, Crazy Creek canoe seats, paddles & life jackets, Dry Bags for personal items, clothing and sleeping bag(you bring own sleeping bag unless renting from LCTA $50), All meals starting from first days lunch to last days lunch complete outfitter kitchen provided. Our Guides, Jesse and Nathan were knowledgeable about the history, geology, plant life and wildlife. For any river traveler, this trip offers a very accessible route of discovery: geology, wildlife, Native American culture, early explores and the pioneers that followed. What are good water flows in the Upper Missouri River Breaks? Poor canoe/kayak access. 460.0 Worrhwine Island Conservarion Area, left, begins. We offer two trip options. The most important issues we will highlight include the restoration of cottonwood groves along the riparian area and prairie ecosystem restoration.