Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Best Time to Visit
Rosebud West
Rosebud West is a public boat ramp on Yellowstone River near Forsyth, 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
Launch into Yellowstone River near Forsyth, Montana. Beginner level with mild current water.
Rosebud West is a public launch site on Yellowstone River in Montana, serving as a popular put-in for paddlers exploring this section of the river.
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.
Water conditions are generally mild current. June through August is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
Getting here from Forsyth takes about 5 min, putting Rosebud West within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.
Paddling Tips
- •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.
- •Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Rosebud West?
- Rosebud West is a public boat ramp in Montana. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Rosebud West?
- Rosebud West supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at Rosebud West?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Rosebud West?
- The best time to paddle at Rosebud West is during summer. June through August
- What are the water conditions at Rosebud West?
- Water conditions at Rosebud West include mild current.
- Is Rosebud West good for beginners?
- Yes, Rosebud West 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: 46.2638, -106.6951
Quick Facts
- State
- Montana
- Region
- Rocky Mountains
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Forsyth
46.2638, -106.6951
Best Paddling in Montana
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Paddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
More Paddling on Yellowstone River
6 other launches on this water body
Rosebud East
Montana · 1.1 mi
Far West
Montana · 10.1 mi
Myers Bridge
Montana · 31.0 mi
Roche Jaune
Montana · 41.5 mi
Kinsey Bridge
Montana · 50.4 mi
Captain Clark
Montana · 50.8 mi
Nearby Paddling
Rosebud East
Montana · 1.1 mi
Far West
Montana · 10.1 mi

Amelia Island
Montana · 26.2 mi
Myers Bridge
Montana · 31.0 mi
Manuel Lisa
Montana · 37.7 mi
Roche Jaune
Montana · 41.5 mi