Forest Service Take Out

The Forest Service Take Out on the Gallatin River is a whitewater access point located in Gallatin County, Montana. The Gallatin River is a large stream (stream order 7) with significant gradient and flow characteristics that make it suitable for experienced paddlers. With an average flow of 1288 cubic feet per second and an average velocity of 3.92 feet per second, this section of the river presents moving water conditions typical of whitewater environments. The river drops over 4794 feet total across its 114-mile length, resulting in an average gradient of 41.8 feet per mile, indicating substantial rapids and technical sections throughout much of the river system.

This take-out location serves as an exit point for boaters completing upstream paddle sections of the Gallatin River. As a Forest Service managed site, it provides access to one of Montana's premier whitewater rivers, which drains a watershed of nearly 4000 square miles. Paddlers using this access point should be prepared for cold water conditions and moderately fast current. The river's characteristics suggest this is best suited for kayakers and canoeists with intermediate to advanced whitewater skills rather than beginners.

Potential hazards on the Gallatin River include the strong current, possible submerged obstacles, and the technical nature of the whitewater sections. Paddlers should be familiar with river hazards and have appropriate safety equipment including properly fitting personal flotation devices.