I was able to book the reservation a few weeks out due to the slower time of year. I originally booked a 3pm time. I was contacted the week before & asked if I would be willing to move up to the 1pm time due to having room on that raft & no other takers on the 3pm. I was happy to be flexible & accommodate.
Easy office location to find in Gardiner. Everyone was friendly & helpful from the start, including Eddie the black lab! We did pre sign the waivers before hand, but had to sign again. Not sure why that was, but no biggie. Kaleigh, our guide, did an excellent job of fitting your life jacket, & getting your water shoes if you didn't bring your own.
The van ride to the put in spot was quick & close by. Eddie rode along with us to make sure the site was okay =). Quick pose for the first photo with Electric Mtn in the background. The walk down to the put in spot is a little steep & slippery to navigate, so take your time. Due to the low level of the Yellowstone this time of year, getting into the boat is a little tricky as well. The staff are very up front about all this, and are more than happy to help you get there!
Once everyone is loaded, the second pose for a group photo along with shots of you departing for your adventure. Kaleigh will navigate you down the calm areas & through the small rapids smoothly. There will be some splashes here & there, but nothing you shouldn't dry out from quickly. She will also give you plenty of information on all you are seeing during the trip, as well as some great Dad jokes along the way! We seen some wildlife as well, including an elk with her little one in the water next to the bank & an osprey perched overhead hunting the waters. Also said hello to several folks fly fishing.
Take out location was a long stretch of rocks to navigate, also due to the time of year & water level. Take your time & you will be fine. The staff will help out as well if you feel unsure of your footing. On the bus trip back, Kaleigh will fill you in on all the local hot spots to check out if you decide to stay a little longer in Gardiner.
In all, it was a great stress free experience. I will definitely use them again on future outings, and recommend you give them a try!
Personal note - Even though this is a scenic float, you will get wet! At the very least, your feet will get & stay wet during the trip. Remember this is a raft, not a full bottom boat. Want to keep them dry, bring your hip waders lol! Also the river is going to do whatever it likes, so splashes are inevitable =)