Rafting the Missouri River

During the month of June it seems like we had nothing but rain in Central Montana. We don’t usually complain about moisture but I was eager for summer-like weather.

By the end of the month everything changed and now it seems like we have hit our summer high temps big-time. My answer to that was to cool down with a river trip!

We decided to spend about a half day on the Missouri River launching at a location called Mid Canon. That river launch is frequently mispelled. The launch is about midway through Wolf Creek Canyon…you get where I’m going with that! Many people call it Mid Canyon.

Our raft trip was with Montana River Outfitters based in Great Falls, and they provided everything – raft, oars, dry bags and life jackets. We brought sunscreen. hats and several friends. After a safety talk we launched the raft.

I am always so amazed at the terrain in Wolf Creek Canyon. Interstate 15 south of Cascade cuts right through this beautiful rocky canyon and the scenery is jaw-dropping whether you are on the interstate, the frontage road or the river.

The Adel Mountain range is on both sides of the Missouri River here. This unique geography was formed by volcanic rock.

The raft trip was wonderful. Not only did the water feel good, we also saw a nice variety of birds and several deer. We floated as far as the Mountain Palace take-out where our shuttle was waiting.

As we were climbing out of the raft and unpacking everything we saw a father and son launching in a kayak. They had a small dog with them and each had a fishing rod. Their actual destination was a secret but they knew the river, fished here frequently and had plans to catch something for dinner.

They made a colorful photo in their kayak.

There are several outfitters who work on Central Montana’s rivers and streams. You can rent watercraft or have them guide and paddle for you.

We had such a good time and we all said…why don’t we do this more often? Well, I hope we do!