
Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Best Time to Visit
Pelican
Pelican is a public boat ramp on Yellowstone River near Greycliff, Montana. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, camping. 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
Limited
Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.
About This Location
Public launch on Yellowstone River in Montana. Beginner-friendly river paddling near Greycliff.
Situated along Yellowstone River in Montana, Pelican provides convenient river access for kayakers, canoeists, and other paddlers.
Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle. 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 and camping.
Pelican sits about 5 min from Greycliff, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.
Paddling Tips
- •Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
- •River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
- •Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
- •Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Pelican?
- Pelican is a public boat ramp in Montana. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Pelican?
- Pelican supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at Pelican?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, camping. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Pelican?
- The best time to paddle at Pelican is during summer. June through August
- What are the water conditions at Pelican?
- Water conditions at Pelican include mild current.
- Is Pelican good for beginners?
- Yes, Pelican 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: 45.7583, -109.7704
Quick Facts
- State
- Montana
- Region
- Rocky Mountains
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Greycliff
45.7583, -109.7704
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Bratten
Montana · 7.2 mi
Otter Creek
Montana · 9.6 mi
Indian Fort
Montana · 11.1 mi

Grey Bear
Montana · 14.5 mi
Holmgren Ranch
Montana · 21.1 mi

Springdale Bridge
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