Rushing white water flows through the scenic landscape.
Photo by Troy Olson on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Carter Ferry

Carter, MT · Boat Ramp · Public

Carter Ferry is a public boat ramp on Missouri River near Carter, Montana. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

Carter Ferry offers river paddling on Missouri River in Montana. Located near Carter.

Located in Montana, Carter Ferry puts you on Missouri River with room to explore upstream or downstream from the launch.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. Mountain waterways in the Rockies run cold and clear, fed by snowmelt and alpine runoff.

Expect mild current conditions on the water. The best time to visit is June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Carter Ferry sits about 5 min from Carter, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

Paddling Tips

  • Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
  • Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
  • Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
  • Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Carter Ferry?
Carter Ferry is a public boat ramp in Montana. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Carter Ferry?
Carter Ferry supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Carter Ferry?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Carter Ferry?
The best time to paddle at Carter Ferry is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Carter Ferry?
Water conditions at Carter Ferry include mild current.
Is Carter Ferry good for beginners?
Yes, Carter Ferry is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 47.7607, -110.8973

Quick Facts

State
Montana
Region
Rocky Mountains
Getting There
~5 min from Carter
Get Directions

47.7607, -110.8973

Best Paddling in Montana

Read our complete guide →

Paddler Reviews

Write a Review

0/5,000 characters

Sign in to add photos to your review.

Trip Reports

Share a trip report

Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Carter Ferry

Sign In

Paddle Routes from Here

No paddle routes from this location yet.

Be the first to create one!