Float the River
Tanks, Tubes, Kayaks, and Canoes
What is Tanking?
Tanking all starts with a stock tank, a river, and a group of people that want to float down the river… in a stock tank. Tanks are capable of holding 2 to 8 people and have benches with the added bonus of having room for a cooler.
Tanking is a perfect way to spend a relaxing day on the water. You are able to float in shallow water, and roll off of obstructions such as downed trees. You don’t have to paddle or pole too much, except at times to push off of sandbars, stumps or weedy banks. The tanks also travel slower than canoes and kayaks, so you have more time to take in the view and relax.
All in all, tanking is an awesome water adventure that anyone from the age of 4 to 94 can take part in.
What do we offer besides tanks?
We also have tubes, kayaks, canoes and a paddle board. Pick your favorite or mix and match for suit everyone in your group! Tubes can be tied on behind the tanks for the added security of keeping your whole crew together.
Where do we float the river?
At Dusty Trails you’ll float down the slow-moving North Platte River or the canal south of Maxwell from the comfort of the water vessels of your choice…tanks, tubes, kayaks or canoes.
North Platte River Float Trip (2 miles): The North Platte trip begins at the campground at Buffalo Bill's Scouts Rest Ranch and ends at Cody Park. The slow-moving North Platte River is perfect for a scenic, relaxing, and fun float trip. The sandy river bottom and occasional sand bars make this a great trip to be able to get in the water and play along the way. This trip takes anywhere from 90 minutes to 2.5 hours depending on water levels. For this trip we will pick you up at Cody Park and shuttle you to the campground to get you started.
- Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Central Time
- Monday-Thursday: 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Central Time (some days may have alternate availability, schedule can be viewed online when booking).
Maxwell Float Trip (5.5 miles): The Maxwell Trip is a beautiful float trip on the canal through the canyons south of Maxwell. The water is deep, so there are no sand bars to get stuck on, and you will not be able to touch bottom. There is a lot of beautiful scenery and several unique bridges along this scenic float. This trip takes around 4 hours in kayaks or canoes, 5 to 6 hours in tanks or tubes. For this trip you will meet us directly at Dusty Trails and we provide a shuttle to the drop off point and pick you up at the end.
- Friday and Saturday at 9:30 a.m. Central Time
Hershey Trip: Please note that this trip is only available when water levels are high enough, please call for availability. The Hershey Trip is about 10 miles and begins in Hershey and ends at the campground at Buffalo Bill's Scouts Rest Ranch. This trip takes 6-8 hours in tanks and tubes, 4-6 hours in kayaks and canoes, but can vary depending on water levels. For this trip you will meet us directly at Dusty Trails and we will shuttle you to Hershey.
Paxton Trip: Occasionally water levels are too low for the North Platte Trip. When this happens, we will offer the Paxton trip which is approximately a 3-mile float from Paxton to Sarben. For this trip you will meet us directly at Dusty Trails and we will provide a shuttle for the trip.
Other times and days may be available for parties of 10 or more.
*Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult on all trips*
Appointments can be made for any day during the week with a minimum of 24 hours notice.
308-530-0048 or book online
Will you have a shuttle for drop off and pick up?
Yes, we will take you to the river and make sure you get on the river and on your way safely. For certain trips the shuttle will also pick you up at the end and bring you back to Dusty Trails.
How much does it cost?
The North Platte Trip
Tanking: Small tanks- $100 for up to 4 people, additional people at $20/person up to 6 people per tank.
Large tanks - $150 for up to 6 people, additional people at $20/person up to 8 people per tank.
Canoe: $50 for up to 2 people, add and additional person for $10.
Tubes: $30/person for a large tube. Add a child to tube for $10.
$20/person for a youth tube, ages 5-12.
Kayaks: $35/person, add a child to sit with you for $10.
*Children 4 years old and younger are free and must be accompanied by an adult. You are required to provide your own life jacket for these children.
The Maxwell or Hershey Trip
Tanking: Small tanks - $200 for up to 4 people, additional people at $40/person up to 6 people per tank.
Large tanks - $300 for up to 6 people, additional people at $40/person up to 8 people per tank.
Canoe: $100 for up to 2 people, add an additional person for $20.
Tubes: $60/person for a large tube. Add a child (5-10 yrs old) to tube for $20.
$40/person for a youth tube, ages 5-12.
Kayaks: $70/person, add a child (5-10 yrs old) to sit with you for $10.
*Children 4 years old and younger are free and must be accompanied by an adult. You are required to provide your own life jacket for these children.
The Paxton Trip is the same pricing as the North Platte Trip plus a transportation/fuel surcharge of $10/person.
*Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult on all trips*
How do I book my tanking trip?
All river trips are done by appointment. Please call us at 308-530-0048 to book your tanking trip of click the button below to book online.
What should I bring?
- Snacks and drinks are welcome. Do not litter! Take all trash with you after the float and keep our beautiful waterways clean for all to enjoy.
- Sunscreen is recommended
- A waterproof case for phones or other important items. Aquacase floating phone cases are available for purchase at Dusty Trails.