Bighorn Canyon is one of the most underrated destinations in the American West. Stretching across Montana and Wyoming, it is a place of dramatic cliffs, deep blue water, and quiet coves where you might not see another person all day. One of the best ways to experience the canyon is by renting a pontoon boat from Ok-A-Beh Marina. Cruising along the water gives you access to views and hidden spots you cannot reach from the road.
For travelers who like a mix of adventure and relaxation, a day on a pontoon in Bighorn Canyon is unforgettable.
Why Choose a Pontoon Boat
Pontoon boats are perfect for Bighorn Canyon. They are stable, easy to drive, and have plenty of room for groups. Whether you are traveling with friends, family, or just want space to spread out, a pontoon lets you move around comfortably. Most come with shaded canopies, ladders for swimming, and enough seating to make the ride as relaxing as it is scenic.
Unlike speedboats, pontoons encourage you to take your time. This suits Bighorn Canyon, where the main attractions are the views, the wildlife, and the quiet of being on the water.
Starting Point: Ok-A-Beh Marina
Ok-A-Beh Marina, located near Fort Smith, Montana, is the main launch point for exploring the canyon by boat. The marina rents pontoons during the summer season, usually from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
The staff provide life jackets, basic instructions, and tips for navigating the lake. Even beginners usually find pontoons easy to handle.
What to Expect on the Water
Bighorn Lake stretches nearly 70 miles between the Yellowtail Dam near Fort Smith and the southern reaches in Wyoming. From Ok-A-Beh, you head south into the heart of the canyon. Sheer cliffs rise hundreds of feet above the water, creating a sense of scale that is hard to capture in photos.
The water is calm compared to open reservoirs, making it good for swimming or just drifting. The pace of boating here is slow and relaxed.
Highlights Along the Way
- Devil Canyon Overlook (from the water): While most visitors view Devil Canyon from above, being in the canyon gives you a new perspective. The cliffs tower overhead, and you feel dwarfed by the rock walls.
- Hidden coves: Dozens of small inlets invite you to pull in and enjoy a picnic or swim.
- Wildlife: Bighorn sheep, mule deer, and eagles are common along the cliffs. If you are lucky, you may even spot wild horses in the Pryor Mountains above.
- Fishing: The lake is known for trout, walleye, and bass. Many people bring rods to cast directly from the boat.
How Long to Rent
Most visitors rent pontoons for a half day (4 hours) or full day (8 hours). A half day is enough to see some canyon highlights, but a full day gives you time to cruise further south, stop for lunch, and swim. With a full day, you can find quieter stretches away from other boaters.
Costs
Pontoon rental prices vary, but expect around $250–$400 for a half day and $400–$600 for a full day, depending on boat size and season. Fuel is usually extra, charged based on what you use. Splitting costs among a group makes it affordable compared to other guided tours.
What to Bring
- Food and drinks for the day (there are no services once you leave the marina)
- Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses
- Swimsuits and towels if you plan to swim
- Fishing gear if you want to try your luck
- A camera for scenery and wildlife
Coolers are allowed, and many groups bring picnics to enjoy on the water.
Safety and Tips
- Always wear life jackets when swimming or if you are not confident in deep water.
- Keep an eye on fuel levels; the distances are long, and there are no fuel stations along the lake.
- Watch the weather. Thunderstorms can develop quickly in summer.
- Cell service is limited, so plan to be self-reliant.
- Leave no trash behind—pack everything out with you.
Combining with Other Activities
A pontoon trip is often part of a longer visit to the Bighorn Canyon area. Other things to do nearby include:
- Devil Canyon Overlook: The classic viewpoint above the canyon, accessible by car.
- Bighorn Canyon Visitor Center: Exhibits on history, geology, and wildlife.
- Wild horse viewing: The Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range is one of the best places to see free-roaming mustangs.
- Fishing on the Bighorn River: Below Yellowtail Dam, the river is famous for world-class trout fishing.
Best Time to Go
The boating season runs late May through early September. July and August are warmest for swimming, with daytime highs in the 80s and 90s°F (27–35°C). June and September are cooler but often less crowded.
Why It’s Worth It
Renting a pontoon from Ok-A-Beh is not just about being on a boat. It is about experiencing the scale and solitude of Bighorn Canyon. The cliffs, the wildlife, and the stillness make it different from other lakes in the West. You can explore at your own pace, stop wherever you like, and enjoy a sense of freedom that comes with having the water to yourself.
Final Thoughts
Bighorn Canyon is one of the West’s best-kept secrets, and seeing it from the water makes it even more special. A pontoon rental from Ok-A-Beh is an easy, flexible way to explore, whether you want a family outing, a fishing trip, or a quiet day surrounded by towering cliffs.
For travelers looking to escape crowds and find a hidden gem, a day on a pontoon in Bighorn Canyon is hard to beat.
