Glacier Guides and Montana Raft

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.

  • Lodging Testimonial

    Glacier Guides Guest House has everything you could need for your trip to Glacier National Park! The house is very accommodating, fully stocked, and comfortable. And you can’t beat the location. So close to Glacier National Park. Thank you, Glacier Guides, for offering such a great option for families!

    — Jill Bridgeman

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  • 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!!

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    Completed a half day float fly fishing trip with Russ our guide. It was a memorable first float fish experience. Russ was a superb guide getting us onto the fish and providing great instruction along the way. Highly recommend it.

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    Perfect base from which to explore Glacier National Park. We only had 4 in our group, but the house had plenty of room for more. We picked up groceries on the way from the airport so we could cook breakfast and dinners at the house and spend all day at the Park. Sunflower Cafe across the highway has great options to pack in for trail lunches. We loved all the windows and felt like we were already in the park while in the house. Great to have the laundry there, too to clean up before heading over to the east side of the park for the rest of our stay. I would recommend this house to anyone. visiting Glacier.

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