In Mid June of 2009 Amy and Rob set out from Seattle WA on a trip to explore an 88 mile section of the Upper Missouri River in Montana by canoe. We then continued overland to the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone.
Although the navigable portion of the river as it meanders through Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument in Montana continues for a total of 149 miles, we would plan to paddle approximately half way- from Fort Benton to Judith Landing. This trip normally takes 4 or 5 days.
Many river guide companies will happily guide you along on some parts or all of this wonderful stretch of river, as well as either return you to the starting point, or deposit your vehicle at your intended destination. We however had perhaps seen the movie Deliverance once too many times, so we decided to go it alone. I think it turned out pretty well Although in retrospect, having our car shuttled to the take-out point in Judith Landing would have provided a measure of peace of mind…
So, here are our journals from the road, and of course the river. Enjoy.
RR.
Spoiler Alert: It’s a long way from Seattle to Montana, So fast forward to Day 6 if you want to jump right into the Canoe Trip portion of our trip.
Gearing up for a day on the Upper Missouri River across from the fabled White Cliffs area