Rafting FAQ
What's provided?
We provide professional guides, high quality Hyside rafts, Coast Guard approved lifejackets, waterproof bags, splash gear and wetsuits (we are the only local rafting company that does not charge extra for wetsuits), and transportation to and from the river.
What should we wear?
Please refer to our packing list for overnight trips and day trips to properly prepare.
How long is the whitewater trip?
Full day: 14 river miles (5-6 hrs)
Half day: 8 river miles (2hrs-June, 2-1/2 hrs-July, 3 hrs-Aug)
How many people fit in a raft?
Thrillseeker trip: 4-6 people
Classic trip: up to 9 people
Can I bring my children on the whitewater trip?
This depends on the time of year and what the actual river level is that day. Our rivers are free flowing and not dam controlled so it varies throughout the season. The following is a general rule of thumb, but you’ll always want to call the office and double check river levels.
Early season/high water (until mid June) – Children 10 and older.
Mid season/moderate flows (late June to early July) – Children 8 and older.
Remaining season/moderate to low flows (Mid July through Aug) – Children 5 and older.
We generally require a minimum weight of 50 pounds for our whitewater trips. There is no maximum weight, but each guest must be able to buckle a 58″ chest life jacket.
Children 3 and older are generally welcome on the Scenic Float, but again, call the office to double check river levels. Safety always comes first!
406-387-5555 or info@glacierguides.com
What about cameras? Are pictures available?
We don’t recommend taking cameras unless they are waterproof. There is a company that takes photos of all rafts that go through the whitewater section, mid-June to Labor Day. They are available for purchase at our office or online under the “Buy Photos” button. These photos are not offered for our scenic float trip, but we do have Aquacases for sale in our front office!
How safe are these trips?
Safety is always the #1 priority. Guides undergo yearly training in river rescue techniques, first aid, and more. Many guides return year after year. If conditions call for wetsuits and river shoes, or if you would prefer to wear splash gear, it is always available at no extra cost. Helmets are mandatory on whitewater trips. Certain risks are inherent in running the river and you will be required to read and sign our acknowledgement of risk prior to any trip.
Can we bring alcohol?
We do not allow alcohol in any of our boats. You are allowed bring your own beverages to our campus to consume after your trip or during dinner.
Do you offer group rates?
We offer group discounts for groups of 10 or more. Please call us for more information. 406-387-5555
Still Have Questions?
We'd love to answer them.
-
Chalet Testimonial
Our family of 5 just returned from the 3 day chalet trip with Ryan and Eva and WOW! We’re still coming down from the amazing time we had! First of all, both these guides are just really cool people, super knowledgeable about the history and ecology of the park, and clearly enthusiastic about what they do. The Highline Trail was stunning, Ryan and Eva made sure everyone was comfortable with the pace and pointed out animals, berries, and interesting features when we came across them. After the hike in it was awesome to have a delicious, hot meal prepared FOR us (we felt very fortunate for our dinner after watching the rest of the guest eat freeze dried stuff). I’m so grateful for the gentle push to do the two day hikes we did while up that way; they were so worth the climb and our time at the top of the Swiftcurrent Fire Lookout is one of the absolute highlights of this trip. I want to make a special mention of how great both of these guides where with our children, my boys especially bonded with Ryan and they probably talked both his and Eva’s ears all the way off over the duration of the trip but they were so cool about it. Overall this trip was one we will never forget and always cherish and the fantastic guides and process with your company really made it that much more enjoyable. We hope to come back someday for more adventures!
Read More Reviews
-
Fishing Testimonial
Great place! Amazing planning, preparation and logistics management. I had a great time on a half day fly fishing trip on the Northfork and learned some great techniques. I also went on a guided 3 day backpacking trip. Besides the spectacular views, our meals were healthy and tasty. Both guides were very knowledgeable, passionate and experienced. The guides as well as the service staff are great people. Everyone is upbeat, passionate about outdoor recreation, professional, safe and fun. It’s great being surrounded by like minded people. I will most definitely return to make some more memories.
Read More Reviews
-
Biking Testimonial
Used Glacier Guides/Montana Raft Company for a bike trip up the Going to the Sun road in West Glacier and a white water rafting trip on the Flathead River. Jordan was our guide for the former, Blaine for the latter, and both were really awesome. Would definitely use them again for future hikes, biking, and rafting.
Read More Reviews
-
Lodging Testimonial
We stayed at this lodge for 2 nights in July 2021. It exceeded my expectations in every way. I was greeted by Don by my name when I stepped out of my car. I introduced my husband, from then on whenever Don saw us – he knew both of our names and used them! The room is spacious and comfortable. The location is excellent. Don was beyond helpful in every way. The breakfast is wonderful and included. It was a variety of things each morning, including huge, homemade muffins. They also have bug spray and suntan lotion for everyone to use. Highly recommend this place.
Read More Reviews
-
Rafting Testimonial
Holy cow this place is awesome! Right from the start, everyone was so nice and friendly and fun! Our family headed down the river for the scenic float with our three littles (9, 7 & 3) and my FIL and MIL (who cannot swim and is terrified of water!). We had the best time and our guide Nicolette was super knowledgeable about the river and the area. After the float we stayed for dinner and, let me just tell you, it blew my expectations out of the water! I was expecting to get our main course with a couple sides but they had that PLUS crazy yummy appetizers AND dessert too! I cannot recommend Montana Raft enough! If you have time, do the dinner option. You will not be disappointed!!
Read More Reviews
