Back to Nature: Gates of the Mountain

The visitor is transported back in time to a day of discovery on the Gates of the Mountain river tour located a short drive from Helena, Montana.  The days of operations run from May 24 to September 20.  You will have a choice of various river boats for a one and a half hour tour of the pristine waterway with cliffs jetting some 1200 feet and the bluest skies in the west.  Awestruck, Meriwether Lewis named this area "Gates of the Rocky Mountain."

If you are interested in the natural inhabitants of this majestic spot you may be lucky to view the Longhorn Sheep making their way above the rocky cliffs. The bird life is abundant. You may see a hawk, an osprey or a variety of blue birds as well as ducks, loons, tanagers and meadowlarks.

The boat tour makes one stop along the way at Meriwether Campground where passengers can disembark and enjoy the scenery. If you travel early enough you can stay, have a picnic and catch the next boat for a ride back to the marina dock.

The Hilger Family is owed a great debt of gratitude. They were one of the more vigilant stewards of the land and water. Each and all of them loved the place and protected the area as if it was a special duty. The son of the original owner Brian Hilger was the embodiment of the western gentleman. "

The river cruises schedule and fare for 2015 is available by clicking this link.