Short Trips

Trip Snapshot:

Duration: choose from a 1 or 2 day adventure.

Difficulty level: Appropriate for all ages 4+

Departure location: Fort Benton, MT

Reviews

Overview

This is the perfect quick trip if you are limited on time but still want a few days of river solace and to experience the beauty of the Upper Missouri River.

This itinerary is also ideal for families with small children who might not be ready for several days of camping. This section of the National Monument is highly underrated, underappreciated and rarely visited. The river takes you through expansive range and farming land, along the magnificent Black Bluffs and past the famous Decision Point, where the Marias River enters the mighty Missouri. Here, the Lewis and Clark Expedition spent 10 days deciding which channel would take them to the Northwest Passage. The trip departs from Fort Benton, which makes for a seamless launch.

Each day we canoe between roughly 20 miles. We stop regularly for breaks, snacks, lunch and stretch our legs by walking to viewpoints or exploring the many islands throughout the braided channels. The days are filled with peaceful paddling, relaxing in the boat and taking in the magnificent scenery.

Why choose a short trip?

We understand that summer is packed with scheduled activities and travel plans. If you are limited on time or simply wish to only camp for one night (perhaps this experience will inspire a longer trip in the future), then this is the trip for you. We believe that any time on the river is better than none at all!

Sample Itineraries

Upper River 2 Day Adventure

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  • 7:30am. After a quick rendezvous at our headquarters in Fort Benton, our shuttle vans will transport you down the street to the launch point (either the boat launch or the canoe camp launch). The first day is spent enjoying the peaceful paddling, spotting wild life and taking breaks regularly. We canoe between roughly 20 miles, stop regularly for breaks, snacks, lunch and stretch our legs by walking to viewpoints or exploring the many islands throughout the braided channels. Campsite options include Black Bluff Primitive campsite or Wood Bottom developed site.

  • To start the day, paddle past Decision Point, where the Marias enters the Missouri River. Take a short walk to the the overlook and interpretive area to learn more. The rest of the day includes much of the same - peaceful paddling, swimming and taking in the magnificent scenery. We paddle roughly 20 miles. The take out point is either Virgelle Ferry or Coal Banks Landing. Depending on conditions and time, the group can take a ride across the car ferry at Virgelle. Our shuttle vans will return the group to our headquarters in the afternoon, around 4pm.

Pricing & Availability

Pricing: $475 per person | $427 per child (10 and under)

trip dates available upon request & based on guide availability

Reservation Information

Deposit and Cancellation Policy

We require a 25% deposit per person to secure your spot. We require final payment 60 days prior to the trip departure. Reservations made within 60 days of trip departure must be paid in full at the time of booking. We accept check or you can conveniently and seamlessly book online once you settle on dates.

Due to the seasonal nature of our business, cancellations can prove very costly to us. However, we understand that things happen outside of our control. Refunds of monies will be given at the following rates:

  • Prior to 60 days before launch date, we will refund 50% of your deposit.

  • 60 days or less before launch date, no refunds will be given.

  • In certain circumstances, you can opt to hold credit with us for monies paid, and postpone your trip for a following summer. A $300 handling fee will be applied. The remaining funds will be applied to a trip in the future. Contact us for details.

Discounts Available

Early booking discount – 5% early off when you send a deposit prior to January 31st

  • Large group – enjoy a 5% discount when you party reaches 10 or more people

  • Returning customer - 5% discount for returning customers 

  • Kids - Children 10 or younger receive 10% off the adult trip price.

  • Veteran (active and retired service members) - 5% in honor of R. Hartung, best friend

  • Journalists - please contact us for details and arrangements

What We Provide

Equipment supplied by Upper Missouri River Canoe Guides

  • Wenonah fiberglass and Kevlar canoes with paddles (12 oz. carbon fiber bent shaft). Read more about our high-end gear and equipment - definitely the best on the river!

  • Canoe backrests

  • Life jackets

  • Waterproof dry bags sufficient to carry all of your gear (multiple sizes, large and small)

  • Tent - varying sizes & capacities (we will coordinate sleeping arrangements)

  • Inflatable extra thick ThermaRest sleeping mattress

  • Complete camp kitchen, including chairs and tables, utensils, etc.

  • Large waterproof tent to cover dining area

  • First aid kit

  • Gear Boat (on most trips)

  • Food: 3 meals per day starting with lunch on the first day to lunch on the last day, including ALL cooking and clean up. Varying snacks throughout the days. Browse our sample menu

  • A cooler of locally-crafted beer

  • Drinking water, juice, iced tea, lemonade, Gatorade, coffee, hot chocolate, tea

  • Drinking ice: multiple coolers of drinking ice for beverages and cocktails. We encourage you to bring any and all beverages you prefer.

  • We bring multiple reference books, including the only comprehensive mile-by-mile history digest authored by us. We also bring games appropriate for adults and kids!

In Addition

  • Advice and logistics assistance throughout the planning process

  • Detailed preparation and packing list

  • Consistent and reliable communication for everyone in your group

  • Pre-trip meeting then night before Launch (not mandatory). We meet at the Grand Union Hotel (or another convenient location depending on where you are staying). During this meeting, we will do introductions, give you dry bags and instruction on packing them efficiently, answer any last minute questions you might have, establish a time to meet at our headquarters the next morning and offer a brief safety talk.

Overview and What to Expect

  • The Upper Missouri is a flat water river with no rapids. Appropriate for all ages and ability levels. Suggested age minimum: 4+ years old. Canoeing or camping novice? No problem! We are here to help, offer instruction and make you feel comfortable and included. Generally, we paddle at a relaxed pace, however, this trip is still an adventure into a remote, wilderness area. You should be in reasonable physical condition.

  • We have the utmost respect for folks who decide to embark on an adventure by themselves. Don’t worry, you won’t have to share a tent. We have solo tents. Also, you will most likely be in a canoe with a guide (not a stranger). Furthermore, our guides will make sure you feel integrated with the group, and they always work towards creating group cohesion.

  • Our expert guides include the owners and a small group of dedicated, knowledgeable and passionate outdoor enthusiasts. Our passion and dedication to the river is unmatched, and we look forward to ensuring an adventuresome and memorable experience for all guests. We are knowledgeable about the history, wildlife and geology of the river, and we pride ourselves in creating an inclusive experience.

  • You provide the following:

    • Your personal clothes and gear (reference our comprehensive list when packing)

    • Sleeping bag (you can rent a clean, lightweight bag for $30 if absolutely necessary)

    • Pillow

    • Sunscreen, insect repellent, etc.

    • Optional snacks, beverages and alcohol

    • Gratuity for the hard working guides: We recommend the following gratuity guideline: $15 - $25 per person per guide per day. But, any amount is appreciated and welcomed.

    Additional considerations:

    • Travel Insurance - For your convenience, we work with Travelex Insurance Services to provide plans to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. Inquire for information.

    • Shuttle to and from the airport - flying in and don’t want to rent a car? Contact us for current pricing and scheduling information

  • We are very experienced in accommodating any and all food allergies/preferences/restrictions. We collect detailed information about your dietary needs (if any). Do you have picky kids? No problem, we will contact you to chat about their favorite foods and appropriate modifications to our menu items so they feel nourished and comfortable also.

  • Our guides are trained in first aid, CPR and Wilderness First Aid. We are VERY experienced and have already encountered most situations and are prepared to make timely decisions and take the necessary actions to resolve the situation or initiate an exit or evacuation. We carry a professional first aid kit (it’s a big one!) and AED’s. We utilize a Garmin InReach in case of emergencies and follow strict protocols depending on the situation.

Have additional questions?

Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page, or contact us below.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are you flying into Great Falls? Don’t know how to get to Fort Benton? We can help.

    For our guided trip folks, we can offer shuttle service for $145 each way (for the van, not per person). Thus, if there is multiple people, you can split the cost. Sometimes, renting a car and storing it at our headquarters is less expensive. Send us an email or call if you are interested in arranging a shuttle through us.

  • We provide all necessary equipment, including canoes or kayaks (based on availability), paddles, life jackets, seat backrests, camp tables and chairs and dry bags for personal items. We offer expert guides and as must historical, geological and wildlife interpretation you can handle. We will provide a packing list for your convenience.

    • Early booking discount – 5% early off when you send a deposit prior to January 31st

    • Large group – enjoy a 5% discount when you party reaches 10 or more people

    • Returning customer - 5% discount for returning customers 

    • Kids - Children 10 or younger receive 10% off the adult trip price.

    • Veteran (active and retired service members) - 5% in honor of Robert Hartung, a best friend who served his country and left us too soon

    • Journalists - please contact us for details and arrangements

  • We require a $400 deposit per person to secure your spot. We require final payment 60 days prior to the trip departure. Reservations made within 60 days of trip departure must be paid in full at the time of booking.

  • Due to the seasonal nature of our business, cancellations can prove very costly to us. However, we understand that things happen outside of our control. Refunds of monies will be given at the following rates:

    • Prior to 60 days before launch date, we will refund your deposit less 50%.

    • 60 days or less before launch date, no refunds will be given.

    • In certain circumstances, you can opt to hold credit with us for monies paid, and postpone your trip for the following summer. A $300 handling fee will be applied. The remaining funds will be applied to a trip in the future. Contact us for details.

  • In today’s changing travel environment, it’s important to protect your travel investment so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Unforeseen events such as flight delays, baggage loss or even a sudden sickness or injury could impact your travel plans. For your convenience, we offer a Travelex Insurance Services protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected.

    For more information on the available plans click here or contact Travelex Insurance 800-228-9792 and reference location number 26-0056.

    The product descriptions provided here are only brief summaries and may be changed without notice. The full coverage terms and details, including limitations and exclusions, are contained in the insurance policy. Travelex Insurance Services, Inc CA Agency License #0D10209. Travel Insurance is underwritten by Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC #22276. V94

  • We will provide a gourmet lunch (locally sourced or food from our own garden or that we foraged, hunted or fished), snacks and beverages including, cold water, iced tea/lemonade & seltzer water. We can loan you a cooler and provide ice if you wish to bring additional beverages. Browse our sample menu page and get hungry for our amazing food.

Have additional questions?

Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page, or contact us below.

The Upper Missouri River Guides Difference

  • Our Experience and Highest Quality Service

    We have intentionally kept our business small and intimate. We provide unrivaled service to make your adventure enriching and memorable and create a luxury-style experience. BUT, we strive to create a participatory environment and hope you learn from us as we hope to learn from you.

  • Our Passion for the Outdoors

    We are an eclectic, dynamic group of outdoor enthusiasts with a wide arrays of talents, interests and off-season jobs. We all share a deep passion for nature and what it offers the soul. We cherish our great state and all its natural wonders. We fully realize our job is hard work but wildly rewarding, and we know we have the best job in the world!

  • Best Equipment & Safety

    We distinguish ourselves from our competitors by offering the best river canoes and equipment available, most notably our high-tech, kevlar Wenonah canoes, and ultra-light carbon-fiber paddles. They are the best in use on the Upper Missouri River. Click here to learn more about the canoe equipment we provide.

  • Supporting Local Communities and Small Businesses

    We support communities and responsible tourism throughout our great state. We share recommendations for other adventures and direct you to our favorite small businesses. We source locally and support local businesses whenever we can. From Fort Benton to Livingston, Kalispell to Helena, and all communities in between, we love our state and hope you have plenty of time to explore.

  • Guide Ratio and Small Trips

    We maintain a 4 person to 1 guide ratio, ensuring the guides have ample time to assist you, provide historical interpretation and have time to go on random adventures. We have determined a sweet spot with trip size. We try to keep our trips between 8-14 people (unless you arrange a private trip with a large group). We think one of the most enriching parts of a trip is getting to know strangers, but we also wish to keep the trip intimate and manageable.

  • Locally-owned and Operated

    The owners and guides are local Montanans with deep roots in communities across the state. Fort Benton is the center of our operations, and we support this special community as much as possible. We could not succeed without the dedicated help and friendship of local residents. We hope you visit and stay to explore more of our great state.

  • Original Owners & Still Guiding!

    We retain one of the ORIGINAL owners (and Brett is still guiding 20+ years later). Yes, we are the only guide service that can claim the owners still guide trips regularly. Brett, Haley and the entire guide team work closely together to constantly improve our services. We believe this consistency sets us apart from other companies, and we hope to keep it in the family for generations to come.

  • Our Menu and Love of Food

    You will hear this again and again: we love cooking for people. We are avid gardeners and source locally when available, We are dedicated to creating fresh and nourishing meals. Most of our menu is homemade and hand-crafted to create a menu of classic comforts with creative and thoughtful additions. We are experienced in accommodating any and all food restrictions and requests. Find out more and get hungry!

  • We Authored a Guidebook

    Our history digest and guidebook is the only available, comprehensive resource solely dedicated to this section of the Missouri River. It is the go-to reference and demonstrates our passion for the history of this area. It also includes a detailed geology section and more. The passages bring the river to life and allow you to experience the deep, profound connection to the past as you experience the adventure today.

  • Community Involvement

    We serve on multiple non-profit boards throughout the community and focusing on the Missouri River Monument. We also regularly donate trip participation for fundraising auctions and more. We donate Fort Benton organization and school clubs. We believe supporting community is a privilege and help where we can.

Ready to plan your Upper Missouri River adventure?