River Cruises in Montana

Scenic Journeys Through Big Sky Country

Unlike larger ocean-bound ships, river cruises in Montana offer a more intimate experience. You’ll float past sleepy frontier towns and wide-open landscapes that once welcomed fur trappers, steamboats, and indigenous nations. Each bend of the river reveals a new chapter in the region’s history, wrapped in a panorama of towering peaks and golden plains. Wildlife sightings, historic landmarks, and cultural stops transform your trip into an immersive voyage through time and terrain.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a seeker of solitude, Montana river cruises promise an experience tailored to your passion. From short scenic escapes to in-depth expeditions, every itinerary is curated to reveal the heart of the American West through its waterways, people, and enduring spirit.

The Columbia River (Western Montana Tributaries)

Although the main body of the Columbia River lies farther west, its watershed extends into Montana through a network of scenic tributaries, including the Flathead and Clark Fork Rivers. Select cruises begin in these areas before continuing into Idaho and Washington.

Glacier National Park

Flowing along the western edge of Glacier National Park, the Flathead River provides jaw-dropping views of alpine forests, glacier-fed streams, and snow-capped peaks. River cruises in this region are often paired with hikes, wildlife watching, and photography expeditions into the park’s interior. Expect to see elk, moose, and possibly even grizzly bears from the safety of the boat.

Kalispell: Small-Town Charm and Big Nature

This vibrant town is the ideal place to begin or conclude your river journey. Walk its historic Main Street, visit the Conrad Mansion Museum, and explore nearby Flathead Lake—the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi.

Missoula: Cultural Crossroads on the Clark Fork

Sitting on the Clark Fork River, Missoula blends university-town energy with deep-rooted Montana heritage. River cruises pass beneath historic bridges and provide views of the city’s vibrant arts scene, old mills, and forested hills. The town is also a hub for breweries, fly-fishing, and literary history—it’s where Norman Maclean penned “A River Runs Through It.”

Thompson Falls: Peaceful Escape

Located on the Clark Fork River near the Idaho border, this sleepy town offers tranquility, wildlife sightings, and panoramic views of the Cabinet Mountains. Ideal for shorter cruises that focus on relaxation and nature.

The Missouri River

Fort Benton: The Birthplace of Montana

Start your cruise in Fort Benton, one of the oldest settlements in the American West. Once a key port for 19th-century steamboats, this charming town is now a living museum. Historic structures line the riverfront, and the Fort Benton Bridge provides an iconic photo stop. Explore the Museum of the Northern Great Plains before setting sail.

Great Falls: Gateway to Waterfalls and History

At Great Falls, marvel at a series of five dramatic waterfalls that challenged Lewis and Clark during their expedition. The city’s River's Edge Trail offers stunning views, and the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center brings their journey to life through engaging exhibits and multimedia displays.

Helena: Gold Rush Capital

The capital city of Helena combines frontier history with cosmopolitan flair. On a river cruise stop, you can tour the Montana State Capitol, stroll down Last Chance Gulch—once a bustling gold mining street—and visit the ornate Cathedral of St. Helena, modeled after French Gothic architecture.

Missouri Breaks: Remote and Wild

This untouched section of the Missouri River, known as the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument, is a true highlight for nature lovers. Expect to see bald eagles, bighorn sheep, and cottonwood-lined banks that remain as pristine as when Lewis and Clark passed through. The slow-paced drift through this remote landscape is one of the most peaceful sections of the journey.

Fort Peck Lake: A Vast Inland Sea

Created by the Fort Peck Dam, this sprawling reservoir feels more like a lake than a river. Cruises in this area offer ample opportunities for birdwatching and stargazing. The Fort Peck Theatre, an Art Deco gem, is a local treasure worth a shore excursion.

Additional Missouri River Landmarks

• Coal Banks Landing – Launch point for guided excursions through the White Cliffs section.
• Judith Landing – Famous for Native American and fur trade history.
• Fort Belknap Reservation – Offers cultural insight into the Gros Ventre and Assiniboine tribes.

Themed and Length-Based Itineraries

Short Cruises (3–5 Days)

Perfect for weekend travelers or those new to river cruising, short itineraries often focus on scenic highlights, such as the White Cliffs section of the Missouri River or the Flathead River near Glacier National Park. Activities include guided nature walks, Native American interpretive programs, and sunset dining on deck.

Medium Cruises (6–9 Days)

These well-rounded cruises may begin in Fort Benton and continue through the Missouri Breaks to Fort Peck Lake. Alternatively, a Columbia River itinerary might include stops in Kalispell, Missoula, and other nearby destinations. These cruises offer a deeper dive into Montana’s history and ecosystems, with optional side excursions into national parks and historic sites.

Long Cruises (10+ Days)

For the truly immersive experience, long river cruises traverse both the Missouri and Columbia watersheds, possibly extending into adjoining states. These epic journeys showcase the diversity of Montana’s topography—from prairie to alpine to river canyon—and include storytelling evenings, gourmet campfire meals, and multi-day explorations of cultural sites.

Special Interest Cruises

• Wine Cruises – Sample Montana’s emerging wine scene with tastings onboard and in local vineyards near Missoula and Kalispell.
• History Cruises – Follow the Lewis and Clark Trail, complete with reenactments and visits to original expedition campsites.
• Photography Tours – Ideal lighting, stunning landscapes, and expert guides make these a hit with amateur and pro photographers alike.
• Wildlife & Birding Cruises – Spot bald eagles, river otters, herons, and elk from the observation deck or skiff tours.

Onboard Experience

Ship Sizes and Ambiance

Montana’s river cruise vessels are typically small to mid-sized, accommodating 20–50 guests for an intimate and personalized experience. Interiors blend rustic elegance with modern comfort—think hardwood furnishings, panoramic windows, and cozy lounges.

Cuisine and Wine

Menus celebrate local ingredients—elk tenderloin, huckleberry compote, and fresh-caught trout are staples. Wine lists feature regional vineyards, and meals are served in either refined dining rooms or al fresco under Montana’s endless sky.

Excursions and Enrichment

Shore excursions include guided hikes, visits to cultural centers, archaeological site tours, and wildlife safaris. Onboard, expect enrichment talks from historians, geologists, and local storytellers who deepen your connection to the region.

Something for Everyone

• Couples – Enjoy romantic starlit dinners, private balconies, and shared adventure.
• Families – Themed cruises with educational activities and flexible excursions keep all ages engaged.
• Solo Travelers – A welcoming atmosphere and communal dining foster new friendships.
• Luxury Seekers – Upscale cabins, concierge service, and exclusive off-boat experiences await.

"To cruise through Montana’s river valleys is to witness the soul of the American West—untamed, majestic, and rich with stories that flow as endlessly as the rivers themselves."

Whether you’re drawn to history, nature, or simply the serenity of waterborne travel, the rivers of Big Sky Country promise adventure, connection, and awe at every turn.