Due to high winds, Santa had to pivot from reins to oars.

The reindeer are fine. They are grazing with antelope and elk in Yellowstone National Park, tucked out of the wind and enjoying a rare break from sleigh duty.

Santa, on the other hand, still had miles to cover.

With gifts bound for Gardiner, Pray, Emigrant, and Livingston, he dropped into Yankee Jim Canyon and floated the Yellowstone the way it has always been done when conditions decide the plan. Cold hands. Red suit. Steady strokes. No shortcuts.

Around here, you do not argue with canyon winds…….You adjust. You adapt. You keep moving.

Turns out even Santa knows the river sets the schedule.

Most Yellowstone River floats are not this cold or this sporty. Come spring and summer, the winds ease, the days stretch out, and the river settles into long, friendly miles made for fishing, storytelling, and taking it all in.

But for now, Santa rows on…….No rest for Santa.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Yellowstone River.

Here’s to changing conditions, good decisions, and a season ahead full of warmer days and easier floats.

For calmer scenic floats and classic wooden boat experiences, learn more about Montana Classic Boat Tours on the Yellowstone River.

If you are planning a fishing trip on the Yellowstone River this spring or summer, our Yellowstone River hub can help you choose the right timing and stretch of water.