Upper Missouri National Wild and Scenic River

The White Cliffs of the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument

Guided River Trips

Embark on a historical journey along the majestic Upper Missouri River with Breakwater Expeditions. This river, the longest in the United States, offers a serene yet invigorating paddling experience. We will explore 47 or 102 miles of this river following in the footsteps of the famous 1805 expedition of Lewis and Clark.

Scenic and Historically Rich Landscapes

The Upper Missouri River is not just a waterway; it's a corridor through time. Paddle through areas filled with cultural history, including Lewis and Clark campsites and pioneer homesteads. The river’s banks are lined with dramatic cliffs and rock formations, which create a breathtaking backdrop to your adventure. A flat-water float this river will feature sandstone cliffs and cottonwood trees before entering into the Montana “badlands” where erosion has carved a three-dimensional tapestry. Wildlife can be spotted along the way - elk, mule, deer, eagles, blue herons, swans, bighorn sheep, coyotes, and pronghorn antelopes.

Location and Logistics

Upper Missouri River river floats most often begin at Coal Banks Landing, Montana about 1.5 hours from Great Falls, Montana. We conclude our river float at Judith Landing or James Kipp Recreation Area which is about 2-3 hours from Great Falls. The entire section of our river trips are located within the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument area. Taking into consideration water levels as well as our customers desires and abilities, we offer 5 day, 4 night itineraries or longer trips up to 10 days. Great Falls, Montana is where the closest airport is with hotels and restaurants for your arrival and departure logistics.

Breakwater’s Guide Service - For All Abilities

Whether you're an experienced paddler looking for a challenging voyage or a family on your first canoeing adventure, we customize each trip to fit your needs. During your river journey of 47 miles or 102 miles, you will enjoy a range of offerings from swimming and water play to slot canyon hikes and vast viewpoints from above the river. Our guides will spoil you with delicious home cooked meals and desserts as well as supporting your comfort and desire to learn new skills. We pride ourselves with the skills to support our customers with a concierge-level service and provide all the gear and expertise to support the group in a comfortable, safe, and enriching experience.

Ready to explore? Join a scheduled trip or choose your own dates and we will provide a custom trip for your group of people. Contact us to find out more.

Brief Sample 5-day Itinerary

47 MILE TRIP - Coal Banks to Judith

Day 1: Arrive and Get River Ready! Some participants arrive on Day 0 and stay the night in Great Falls. This allows for an early meet up with your guides and a great first day of paddling. Starting at Coal Banks Landing, your guides will help you get your belongings packed up in the dry bags we provide. In addition we will provide a Paddle 101 orientation to the canoes (or stand up paddle boards), paddle strokes, safety, and traveling as a group along the river. Once we paddle away from Coal Banks we will make our way to our first night’s campsite.

Day 2 - 4: Each day we will move down river to a different campsite. Along the way we will have opportunities to take short walks and hikes to viewpoints or explore slot canyons and the rugged sandstone rock formations. Each morning will begin with coffee and hot drinks before breakfast. Setting onto the water after we pack up, we will float and paddle until we stop for a lunch break and stretch our legs. After lunch we will paddle the rest of the stretch to our home for the evening. In the evenings there is time to rest, explore, swim, and socialize. Appetizers, Dinner and Desserts will be served and opportunity to enjoy a fire before bed.

Day 5: Waking up on the last day of paddling is bittersweet as everyone looks forward to a shower but also sad to leave the peaceful beauty of this area. Upon arriving at Judith Landing, we will unload our boats and pack up our belongings to drive back to Great Falls, Montana for the evening.