The movie A River Runs Through It was filmed in Montana, and the title is a pretty accurate description of the Treasure State. With almost 100 rivers flowing through our great state (including the world’s shortest, the Roe), it’s safe to say we live in a mecca for those who love a good float.

But where might you find the best lazy river in Montana to kick back and relax in an inner tube? The answer might surprise you. Some of the best river floating in the state isn’t found on the Missouri or the Yellowstone, but on the Jefferson River.

The Jefferson, which was named after President Thomas Jefferson, is relatively small and intimate.
Jocelyn Catterson / Flickr
Located (in part) in the Missouri Headwaters State Park in Three Forks, The Jefferson offers a unique float, with its serpentine path through the area and a paved bike path back to the put-in. It flows about 225 miles to a point just northeast of Three Forks, where it joins the Madison and Gallatin Rivers to form the Missouri River.
So what makes this an ideal river for tubing in Montana? Honestly, everything. Most of the river sits far back away from the roads, and wildlife is often spotted nearby.
Wikipedia
Floating this river feels like getting away from it all even though you could easily make a simple day trip out of it and be home in time for dinner.

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The 83-mile Jefferson River can accommodate your groups' tubes, rafts, kayaks, or canoes with ease.
Wikipedia
As long as the flow rate is above 3,000 cfs, all non-motorized vehicles are allowed.
Begin your float at Drouillard, just north of the Highway 287 exit, and pass through relaxing cottonwood forests.
Trout on the Fly / TripAdvisor
Keep an eye out for deer, beavers, waterfowl and mink, among other animals. You never know what you'll spot on your adventure.

Will you be floating the Jefferson River this summer for some tubing in Montana? If not, check out this list for some other great river floats.

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Best Lazy River In Montana

Jessica Wick | June 22, 2019

Where are the best places to go tubing in Montana?

With so many rivers to pick from, it's safe to say you can choose your own adventure when it comes to going tubing in Montana. From a slow, lazy float to a more exhilarating ride, the adventure you'll have will depend on the river (and which part of the river) you enjoy. Aside from the Jefferson River, many Montanans enjoy floating the Clark Fork River, the Madison River, the Gallatin River between Big Sky and Bozeman, and the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument.

Can I bring my own tube to go tubing in Montana?

You're more than welcome to bring your own tube when you're going floating with your own group. If you book a guided float tour, the rules will vary. Some companies may want you to use a rental tube for liability reasons, while others won't mind if you have your own. Just make sure your tube of choice is safe... and when in doubt, you can always rent one.

When does tubing season end in Montana?

While there's no official tubing season in the Treasure State, the weather typically only allows for a comfortable float in the summer. Guided tours are typically available from June - September.

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