Our 2-day White Cliffs trip is great for people that don’t have the time to do a longer trip and or do not like to camp for too many nights in a row. We canoe from Coal Banks, stay the night at Eagle Creek campground, and do as many hikes as we can in 2 days. Please note, Eagle Creek Campground is a scenic easement and with the partnership of landowners, we are able to accommodate this trip. Eagle Creek is one of the most iconic campgrounds on the river and is known for its beautiful riverside views and fabulous slot canyon and petroglyph hikes. Eagle creek has a rich history.
Archeological evidence indicates Plains Indians used this area as a campsite for centuries. Across the river is LaBarge Rock, a dark igneous rock named after famed riverboat pilot Captain Labarge. Next to Labarge rock are the remains of one of Montana’s most famous natural arches “eye of the needle” which collapsed in 1997. Furthermore, we camp right next to the Lewis and Clark campsite of May 31st, 1805.
We have a Meet and Greet at the Grand Union Hotel the night before the trip at 6:15. At that time guests will have the opportunity to meet their guides and fellow river companions. You will be given a detailed itinerary of what to expect on your trip and an opportunity to ask questions. At that time, you will also be given your river bags and gear for the duration of the trip. Please feel free to get refreshments at the bar prior to the Meet and Greet. We do not offer food or beverages at this time, as this meeting is to provide you with the information and tools to facilitate the trip.
Trip participants meet at our warehouse at 8:30. From there we drive to Coal Banks where you start your river journey. Enjoy the day canoeing, swimming, having a river side lunch and hiking. Once at camp there will be different activities to partake in and lots of history to be told. Enjoy your night’s stay under the start with the serenading sound of cottonwoods blowing in the breeze, birds chirping, coyotes howling and the river slowly drifting by.
Teepee rings, our favorite swimming hole, Monroe Cabin, Eye of the needle, Labarge cove.
Wake up to the smell of French Press coffee and breakfast cooking. After breakfast we will offer multiple hiking opportunities right from camp. On your hike you will see petroglyphs, historic markers and towering sandstone walls. After you morning of exploring the area, your last riverside meal will be served before we take your back to Fort Benton. Expect to be back in Fort Benton and back to your vehicles by 3:00 in the afternoon.
Slot Canyon, Petroglyphs, Corps of Discovery Campsite May 31, 1805, Eye of the Needle.
June 14-15
June 27-28
July 19-20
August 2-3
Want a Private or Specialty Trip for your group? Please refer to our Private and Specialty Trip page.
We are happy to customize trips to your schedule. For inquiry on certain dates that are not listed, please Contact us!
What is our cancellation policy? Check it out in our Policies and Procedures .
Are you looking to relax and navigate your own trip down river? This is the perfect package for you! Carter to Fort Benton is a 3-5-hour trip. The time you spend on the river depends on how much you paddle, weather and river levels. This section is full of beautiful cottonwood growth, islands, and working farmland. This trip allows you to enjoy your time on the Missouri River while you get accounted with paddling or floating.
10:00 AM
We meet you at the cement boat ramp across from the Old Fort. From there you load up in vans and shuttle 30-40 minutes to Carter Ferry.
10:45 AM
Carter Ferry (an old operating cable bridge.) this will be your last bathroom break. If you did not receive paddle directions in Fort Benton, you will receive them at Carter.
2:00-6:00 PM
Arrive at the Cement boat ramp in Fort Benton. Give us a call and we will come down and get the boats.
Shuttle from Fort Benton to Carter Ferry
Boat rental of your choice including; Paddleboards, solo Kayaks, Tandem Kayaks, and canoes
Paddles and PFD’s
Seat backs and dry bags