Gates of the Mountains Boat Tour
Journey through a stunning Missouri River canyon, retracing Lewis & Clark's path and spotting wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Gates of the Mountains Boat Tour
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Journey through a stunning Missouri River canyon, retracing Lewis & Clark's path and spotting wildlife.
"The natural beauty and rich history is breathtaking, and the guides bring the Gates of the Mountains alive."
Bring Binoculars! :binoculars:
Essential for spotting wildlife and pictographs on the canyon walls.
Choose Your Boat Wisely :boat:
The smaller boat stops for restrooms; the larger one doesn't. Pick based on your needs!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Towering Limestone Cliffs
Missouri River Canyon
Witness the dramatic limestone walls that inspired Lewis & Clark to name this stunning canyon.
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Lewis and Clark History
Missouri River
Follow the footsteps of the famous explorers and learn about their 1805 expedition through this historic waterway.
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Abundant Wildlife Sightings
Missouri River
Keep an eye out for bald eagles, osprey, deer, and other native Montana wildlife along the riverbanks.
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Ancient Indigenous Pictographs
Canyon Walls
Spot ancient pictographs on the canyon walls, offering a glimpse into the area's rich Indigenous heritage.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Season
Embrace the Two-Hour Journey
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Binoculars! :binoculars:
Essential for spotting wildlife and pictographs on the canyon walls.
Choose Your Boat Wisely :boat:
The smaller boat stops for restrooms; the larger one doesn't. Pick based on your needs!
Listen to Your Guide :microphone:
Guides are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, bringing history and nature to life.
Pack for the Weather :sun_with_face:
It can get hot on the water, so bring sunscreen, hats, and water.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Binoculars! :binoculars:
Essential for spotting wildlife and pictographs on the canyon walls.
Choose Your Boat Wisely :boat:
The smaller boat stops for restrooms; the larger one doesn't. Pick based on your needs!
Listen to Your Guide :microphone:
Guides are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, bringing history and nature to life.
Pack for the Weather :sun_with_face:
It can get hot on the water, so bring sunscreen, hats, and water.
Bat Tours in August :bat:
Experience thousands of bats emerging at dusk on special August evening tours.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Gates of the Mountains Boat Tour for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich historical narrative. Guides are frequently highlighted for their passion and extensive knowledge, making the experience engaging and educational. The affordability and opportunities to see wildlife are also significant draws for many families and travelers.
"The boat tour guides have so much knowledge that bring the Gates of the Mountains alive. Their passion is palpable and it was a joy to see this again in my lifetime… the natural beauty and rich history is breathtaking."
Becca Crumrine
"My family and I absolutely loved it! There are 2 boats the small one with no bathroom makes a stop in the middle of the tour so we can stretch out legs and use the restroom the big boat which has a bathroom doesn’t, so of course we took the small boat our guide was amazing! She told us stories, the history of GOTM and stopped and showed Ilya many things along the tour! Would definitely do it again!"
Yaill Aguilar
"I loved the boat ride and all the history begind the canyons. I would definitely recommend this experience"
Angela Claassens
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Gates of the Mountains Boat Tour is conveniently located about 20-25 minutes north of Helena, Montana. Most visitors drive their own vehicles or rental cars. Follow signs for the marina.
Yes, ample parking is available at the marina for visitors.
Public transportation options are limited to reach the Gates of the Mountains. Driving is the most common and recommended method.
The tour is generally accessible, but it's always a good idea to contact the tour operator directly if you have specific accessibility concerns.
The most direct route from Helena is typically via Highway 287 North, following signs for the Gates of the Mountains.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The boat tour is considered very affordable. While exact prices can vary, expect it to be a budget-friendly experience.
Tickets can be purchased directly at the marina or online through their official website. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
The tour typically operates seasonally, usually from late spring through early fall. It's best to check their official website for current operating dates and times, as they often have a limited season.
The standard boat tour lasts approximately two hours, providing a comprehensive experience of the canyon and its history.
Policies regarding weather cancellations and refunds can vary. It's advisable to check the tour operator's specific terms and conditions when booking.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect a scenic two-hour journey through a stunning canyon with knowledgeable guides sharing history, geology, and wildlife facts. You'll see towering cliffs, potentially wildlife, and learn about Lewis and Clark's expedition.
There are two boat options. The larger boat has a bathroom, while the smaller boat does not but makes a stop mid-tour for restroom breaks.
Common sightings include bald eagles, osprey, deer, and various other birds. Binoculars are highly recommended for better viewing.
Yes, there is a gift shop at the marina where you can find souvenirs and books related to Montana history. Food options might be limited, so consider bringing snacks.
Absolutely! The scenery is breathtaking and perfect for photography. Just be mindful of other passengers and the boat's movement.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Late afternoon tours often offer beautiful golden hour lighting on the canyon walls. Early morning tours can also be stunning with softer light.
A camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing wildlife and details on the canyon walls. A wide-angle lens can capture the grandeur of the cliffs.
Generally, photography is encouraged. However, be respectful of other passengers and avoid using flash photography that might disturb wildlife.
Bring binoculars to spot wildlife from a distance, and use a telephoto lens on your camera. Patience is key!
The narrowest parts of the canyon, the towering limestone cliffs, and any areas where wildlife is spotted are prime photography locations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The chance to spot wildlife like eagles and deer is always a hit with younger visitors. Consider choosing the smaller boat if your family might need a restroom break mid-tour, as it makes a scheduled stop.
💰 Budget Travelers
It's a great way to experience a significant natural and historical landmark without breaking the bank, especially when compared to other attractions in Montana.
📚 History Buffs
+1 Guides are exceptionally knowledgeable and bring the historical accounts to life with vivid storytelling. You'll learn about the challenges faced by the explorers, the significance of the landmarks they encountered, and the broader context of westward expansion. The presence of ancient pictographs also adds another layer of historical intrigue.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Lewis and Clark
+1During the tour, you'll learn about the challenges the expedition faced, the flora and fauna they documented, and the profound impact their exploration had on the westward expansion of the United States. The guides often point out specific landmarks or geological features that were noted in Lewis and Clark's journals, making the history come alive.
It's an immersive experience that connects visitors directly to a pivotal moment in American exploration.Many visitors find the historical narrative to be a highlight of the tour, appreciating the depth of knowledge shared by the captains. It's not just a scenic boat ride; it's a journey back in time, offering a tangible connection to the past.
Wildlife and Natural Wonders
+1Binoculars are a must-have for spotting these creatures in their natural habitat. You might see eagles soaring overhead or osprey fishing in the river. The guides are often adept at pointing out wildlife, adding an extra layer of excitement to the tour. The remnants of past forest fires also tell a story of the area's resilience and natural cycles.
For those interested in ancient history, the canyon walls also bear pictographs, ancient rock art left by Indigenous peoples. These markings offer a silent testament to the long human history of this region.
+1 The combination of dramatic geology, abundant wildlife, and ancient art makes the Gates of the Mountains a truly captivating natural wonder.The Unique Bat Cruises
Accompanied by bat biologists, these cruises provide an educational opportunity to learn about bat behavior and conservation. Witnessing such a large number of bats take flight from the canyon is described as a spectacular natural phenomenon, often referred to as a 'Superbowl of flashlights' by enthusiasts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit