When you’re looking for a relaxing way to enjoy Montana’s incredible scenery, boating is a great choice. It’s one of the most peaceful Yellowstone things to do when you’re looking to match adventure and sunshine with fresh air and breathtaking mountain views. Explore the world of Yellowstone boat tours and rentals!
Pontoon, Fishing, and Captained Boat Options
There are many ways to get out on the water when you head to Yellowstone. Boating in this area is popular among anglers, families, and travelers looking to slow down their sightseeing.
Pontoon boats are typically a top choice for families, large groups, and those excited to spend a comfortable day on the waves. They are a great choice for sightseeing and swimming. Pontoon boat rentals often include:
- Shade canopies
- Spacious onboard seating options
- Plenty of extra room for gear, coolers, and water equipment
There are also opportunities to rent fishing boats during your stay. Anglers love the lakes near Yellowstone for their quiet coves and trout-rich waters.
If you’re more about great views, booking your place on a captained cruise is also a fun activity to try. While your captain navigates the water and handles route planning, you can simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the experience. Cruises are typically available seasonally and are ideal for:
- Groups celebrating special occasions together
- Families who want to leave vehicles behind and get out on the waves
- Travelers looking to learn more about the area’s wildlife and lake history
A One-Stop Hub for Rental Options
When you’re excited to add a pontoon boat or fishing boat rental to your Yellowstone itinerary, head over to Kirkwood Marina. This is a convenient one-stop hub for rental options, whether you’re looking for a 24-foot Regency Pontoon for a group of 10 or a 17-foot Lund Fishing Boat suitable for 4 anglers at a time. Vessels are available for half- or full-day rentals, and life jackets are always included in the cost. The marina also offers add-ons, such as pull tubes or lily pad floats, for an additional fee.
- Address: 11500 Hebgen Lake Road, West Yellowstone, Montana, 59758
- Phone: 406-646-7540
A Day on Hebgen Lake
One of the top destinations for enjoying boating in Yellowstone is Hebgen Lake. Located just 15 minutes from West Yellowstone, this lake is loved for its accessibility, mountain backdrop, and long shorelines. Boating here means you’ll look forward to more than 15 miles of shoreline for fishing, swimming, and boating fun. Water temperatures are refreshingly warm in the summer, and there are multiple boat launches to use for easy access to the water. Whether you drop by to cruise along the shoreline, anchor in quiet coves, or swim in shallow bays, it’s a place you won’t want to miss.
Cruises
For travelers who prefer to sit back and enjoy the scenery, a guided cruise is the way to go. These tours typically operate exclusively in the summer months and are a relaxing way to enjoy the water without having to handle a boat yourself. Consider booking a twilight cruise on Hebgen Lake to elevate your experience. This two-hour adventure departs at 7:00 pm in the summertime from Kirkwood Marina, and passengers enjoy great views, drinks, and food on board.
Best Time of Year for Boating
Boating season runs from late spring through early fall in Yellowstone. The most popular time of year to travel here for boating is summer, between July and August, when temperatures are warm, there’s plenty of sunshine, and extended daylight hours lead to more time on the waves. If you want to match your boating with wildlife watching and leaf peeping, plan a fall visit between September and October. This time of year, you’ll need to bundle up, but the lakes are typically less crowded.
Browse Our Yellowstone Summer Vacation Homes Here!
Stay with Us
Making the most of your boating journey to Yellowstone begins with booking accommodations that keep you close to the fun. That’s exactly what you’ll find in our portfolio of rental options at Sweet Home Montana. Whether you’re looking for a luxury cabin near the water or a large group vacation rental where the kids can run in their downtime, we have you covered. When you’re looking for a rental property with home-away-from-home appeal, we offer accommodations with:
- Spacious floor plans
- Private patios
- Large living areas
- Cozy bedrooms
- Comfortable furnishings
- A fully equipped kitchen
- Wi-Fi
- Easy access to Yellowstone National Park
Take time today to browse our many options and learn more about our welcoming rental properties. Our team is here to answer any questions you might have or to help with booking if needed. We look forward to seeing you in West Yellowstone soon and helping you plan a trip that’s perfectly tailored to your unique travel style.