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.
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Lodging Testimonial
Thanks so much for allowing us to stay in your house! We had such a great time exploring West Glacier. Highly recommended for larger groups as there were lots of beds and plenty of rooms to spread out. Would come again!
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Rafting Testimonial
We had such a great time! Our guide was Nicolette, and she was fantastic. She was so
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knowledgeable about the park, river, and everything Montana. We weren’t sure what to expect upon arrival, and ended up making the best memories of our trip. I very highly recommend this company & the relaxing raft tour. Make it a priority if you’re visiting Glacier! Will definitely be back!
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Lodging Testimonial
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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Lodging Testimonial
We had a wonderful stay at the guest house-wish it could’ve been longer! The house was clean and comfortable. We even got to enjoy watching deer each evening from the front patio. It is a perfect house for multiple families, especially nice to have the whole downstairs for those with younger children. Great place!
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Group Trip Testimonial
Did a half day trip with 7 family members and had a fantastic time with our knowledgeable and talented guide Charlie! We had a variety of experience within our group, and Charlie guided us down the river without a hitch, sharing interesting facts along the way. Great experience for any age. Montana Raft is a top notch company, accommodating our group without any issue when booking the day before. Our group of 7 fit on one raft, and Montana Raft provided a variety of gear options for us to use, including wet suits, rain jackets, booties, helmets, and life jackets (highly recommend the wetsuit when going on a cool day, as you can expect to get thoroughly soaked on your journey down the river). We can be a tough group to please, but we thoroughly enjoyed our experience, and we highly recommend having Charlie as your guide!
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