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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Fishing Testimonial
Did a half day fly fishing trip on the flathead river with Jamie as our guide. It was a ton of fun, we both caught fish, and Jamie is a knowledgeable and patient guide. We are both flyfishing novices.
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Hiking Testimonial
Glacier guides was more than I could’ve imagined! My Friends and I did the 5 day glacier challenge and it was amazing! They offer longer hikes and shorter hikes. I thought I would do all the long hikes but I didn’t every day. Every hike you take is absolutely stunning!! definitely do what your body will allow, you’ll still be very satisfied! Best part of the challenge is most certainly the guides… TOM MATELICH is awesome! he is a wonderful leader, cook, guide, absolutely hilarious and all around great guy! ARI MELINGER-COHEN is super chill and very calming to be around, extremely knowledgeable and very caring. MAKETE ROESCH is magical, super helpful and can pretty much answer anything you want to know (especially about bears and flowers). All these guys are seriously the best and when I go back I will 100% be requesting them. Glacier guides couldn’t have made this experience any better! Forever grateful for their guidance and the love they have for this beautiful place!
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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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Lodging Testimonial
This was the perfect lodge before our backcountry adventure in Glacier National Park! The location was perfect for our needs. Bed and pillows were super comfortable and Don accommodated our early departure by having all the breakfast things ready an hour earlier. And it was a block from a great meal at the Belton Chalet for dinner.
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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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