Rangers will lead paddling programs this summer at Bighorn Canyon NRA in Wyoming and Montana/NPS

National seashores and national lakeshores are not the only places in the National Park System to paddle your boat. At Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area in Wyoming and Montana there's a huge reservoir perfect for paddling. And this summer rangers will help you get into the sport.

Programs will be presented on both ends of the lake. The programs will cover proper paddling techniques, self-recovery of a capsized kayak, general safety precautions, and fun facts about Bighorn Canyon. 

These excursions will be offered free of charge on a first come, first served basis for up to 10 participants. Up to five participants with their own equipment are welcome to join, for a total of 15. All participants must call ahead and register with Bighorn Canyon NRA.

To register for programs on the South District, call the Bighorn Canyon NRA Visitor Center at 307-548-5406. To register for programs on the North District, call the Yellowtail Dam Visitor Center at 406-666-9961.

All trips are subject to cancellation at the guide’s discretion, such as for bad weather. Registered participants will be informed if there is a cancellation. If you must cancel your reservation, please do so as soon as possible to allow time to fill the vacancy. 

South District

* June 20, 11a.m.-2 p.m., Horseshoe Bend to Crooked Creek

* July 11, 11a.m.-2 p.m., Horseshoe Bend to Crooked Creek

* July 13, 9 p.m.-Midnight, Full moon paddle from Horseshoe Bend to Crooked Creek

* July 25, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Horseshoe Bend to Crooked Creek

* August 1, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Horseshoe Bend to Crooked Creek

North District

* June 22, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Ok-A-Beh to Box Canyon

* June 29, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Ok-A-Beh to Box Canyon

* July 20, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Ok-A-Beh to Box Canyon

* August 3, 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Ok-A-Beh to Box Canyon

* August 10, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Ok-A-Beh to Box Canyon