Put on your lifejacket and grab a paddle for some of the best white water adventures in Montana. Here are five of the best rafting trips available in Glacier National Park today.
(Photo: Viator.com)
Revered for its lofty mountain ranges and vast expanses of Alpine wilderness, what makes Glacier National Park, in the US state of Montana, so ideal for white water rafting is the variety of rafting available, from thrilling rides to gentle floats along the creek. These fun excursions ensure you will get wet, you will feel the thrill of the churning water, and that you will be able to do this in the safest way possible. All of the following Glacier National Park rafting tours depart from West Glacier, the main town in the area.
Half-Day White Water Rafting in Glacier National Park
One of the great things about this tour is the combination of gentle paddling and challenging class II-III rapids that offer a balanced rafting experience. And balanced is the operative word here, thanks to the initial phase of this three-hour adventure tour, where even if you’re a white water novice, you’ll have the chance to learn how to paddle effectively. That’s because the first four miles of water are relatively calm. You can start to gel with your fellow rafters and even take a minute to appreciate the stunning scenery of Glacier National Park. From $73 per person.
Scenic Raft Tour Through Glacier National Park
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
To some people, the thought of hurtling over the rapids, seemingly defying physics and the threat of a watery end is anything other than fun. Others would simply prefer to amble along the river in order to better appreciate the natural beauty surrounding it. For those people, this scenic raft tour is the ideal solution. It’s an excellent chance to see another side of Glacier National Park, and to learn more about this remarkable wilderness from your guide while paddling along. Keep an eye out for moose and eagles, too. From $75 per person.
Half Day White Water Rafting Trip
If you’re seeking the thrill and fun of white water stretches of river, this three-hour rafting trip takes on no fewer than nine named sets of rapids. Navigate Class II and III rapids, called things like Bonecrusher, over a stretch of eight miles. Your guide will brief you on the important commands that will help you negotiate them safely. Like all rafting tours in Glacier National Park, this is a seasonal activity, mostly available from May to September. This tour runs once a day in the mornings. From $75 per person.
Glacier National Park Scenic Float Trip
Middle Fork of the Flathead River runs near West Glacier. This peaceful stretch of water is ideal for anybody seeking a relaxing rafting trip through canyons, and past stunning natural vistas. Lasting anywhere between 90 minutes and two hours (depending on the water levels), you’ll be able to explore the river, while looking out for wildlife, including deer, osprey, and if you’re lucky, even a bear or two. As with all tours on this list, lifejackets, helmets, transportation to and from the river, and your guide are included in the fee. From $93 per person.
(Photo: Getyourguide.com)
Full-Day White Water Rafting Trip
For some people, getting soaking wet for a few hours is just not enough to deplete the stores of adrenaline. Luckily there’s a five-to-six-hour white water rafting tour available in Glacier National Park, too. Discover miles of river, passing Class II and III rapids like Jaws, Bonecrusher and Tunnel in the John Stevens Canyon. While this may sound like an exhausting ride, you’ll also stop midway along the route for a barbecue lunch (veggie options included), and get the chance to learn more about the park’s amazing flora and fauna. From $145 per person.