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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Chalet Testimonial
Took the 3 day Granite Park Chalet hike with the Glacier Guides. It was a dream trip! The guide was fantastic. He is an avid hiker and could tell us all about the geology, as well as the flowers and animals in the park. We felt quite safe in his hands. He made all of our meals, which were delicious and not at all what we expected in a remote area. We hiked about 8 miles a day and saw parts of the park that we never would have seen otherwise. Glaciers, lakes, meadows, and views for miles and miles. This is my second trip with the Guides, and I will for sure book another one for next year (or maybe this year!)
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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.
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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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Biking Testimonial
We rented two e-bikes and were super happy with the experience! This outfitters location is great for picking up bikes bc there is a bike path that leads all the way back into West Glacier so you don’t have to transport your bikes by car or ride on the road to get into the park to start biking. We left our rental car in the lot all day and headed out directly from the bike lot to get our day started. Checking out the bikes and returning them was super easy and quick – we had made reservations on line which I highly recommend to ensure you get an e-bike if you want one and to ensure you get one that is the right size – very important especially if you’re short like me (5’2″) cause these bikes are a bit heavy and even the smallest size is still pretty big. No issues with the bike quality and e-biking the going to the sun road was SO much fun and doable for anybody whose ridden a bike before – you def don’t have to be a bike pro to have a good time.
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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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