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?
Sport trip: up to 9 people
Thrillseeker trip: 4-6 people
Classic trip: up to 14 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 take pictures of all rafts going through the whitewater section from mid-June to Labor Day. They are available for you to purchase at our office after the trip.
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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Biking Testimonial
My husband and I had a half day fly fishing trip through Glacier Guides and Montana Raft. The whole experience was great, from making the reservations online, a phone conversation before our trip, checking in, customer service, and our wonderful guide. Glacier Guides was very easy to work with to get the trip we wanted, and very welcoming when we arrived. Everything happened exactly as advertised and exactly on time. Our guide Cam was just terrific. He took us down the Middle Fork of the Flathead River, taught us about fly fishing, helped us with our technique, and was a great companion throughout. It was a beautiful day on the river and a true highlight of our time in Montana.
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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.
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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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Lodging Testimonial
When searching for lodging close to Glacier National Park I happened upon Glacier Guides Lodge. It was comfortably rustic, cozy and the rooms had a nice array of amenities. The breakfast buffet was a plus with both hot & cold items. The coffee was excellent! Check-in was a hoot as we were greeted by a note telling us the keys were in the room and to check off our name so when staff returned they would know we’d arrived. When we did meet the staff they were welcoming and full of information about the park and surrounding area. Being a stone’s throw from the West entrance to the park was certainly a plus. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay there.
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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.
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