About
Gallatin River, Montana — 1805 Lewis and Clark, Three Forks. Blue-ribbon trout waters begin in Yellowstone National Park and drop 120 miles through Gallatin County, building from Class I-II headwater meanders to the Class III-IV drops of Big Sky Canyon. The Gallatin averages 1,100 CFS with an optimal range of 600-3,000, monitored at USGS gauge 06043500. Big Sky Canyon holds the most technical whitewater, while the Gallatin Gateway to Bozeman stretch offers Class II-III family runs that commercial outfitters like Montana Whitewater and Geyser Whitewater guide regularly. Below Bozeman, the lower Gallatin flattens to Class I-II fly-fishing water. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks designated the Gallatin a Blue-Ribbon Trout Stream in 1982, recognizing water quality and fish populations that support wild trout throughout the system. The Crow (Apsáalooke) and Blackfeet peoples knew this country long before Lewis and Clark's expedition named the river for Treasury Secretary Albert Gallatin in 1805.
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.