GLACIER RAFT COMPANY
Whitewater Rafting Trip Itinerary

4 Day Flathead Ride & Raft

You'll experience the natural beauty of the Flathead National Forest by horseback on this 1½ day pack trip then top it off with 2½ days whitewater rafting onthe middle fork of the flathead river. The ideal way to truly experience the adventure of riding and rafting all in four days!

Day 1: You begin by meeting at Glacier Outdoor Center at 8:30 Sunday morning. You'll have a chance to pack your gear before meeting your trusty four-legged transportation and wranglers at Rawhide Trail Rides. Pack your things in one bag that will be transported to camp by vehicle; things you will want while riding to camp should be kept separate. For these items, you can bring a small backpack or use the saddlebags that are on most of the saddles. We recommend that you wear light hiking boots with a heel, or tennis shoes will work fine; cowboy boots are not a necessity. It's also helpful to bring a water bottle or canteen.

The view from the camp is striking. You'll see 360 degrees of mountain beauty from this spot, overlooking Glacier National Park, the Flathead National Forest and the Bob Marshall Wilderness--be sure to bring your camera! Besides the views, elk, deer or moose just might show themselves as you relax around the camp. You'll also experience riding through forested areas of pine and cedar trees.

Day 2: Morning comes early around the camp and you'll have a hearty breakfast before mounting your horses for the ride back to West Glacier.

After lunch you'll give up your saddles for paddles as you head out for the river. You'll have a chance to pack the gear you need on the river in waterproof bags and leave the rest in West Glacier. Upon arrival at the river, you'll load your gear onto the rafts and head out on another adventure and have a chance to wash off a little trail dust. After a couple hours on the river, camp will be set up along the river's edge. You can help with a little camp set-up, then try a little fishing stream-side, or just change clothes and relax as your guides prepare dinner. If the fresh air and rippling water haven't lulled you to sleep, there's plenty of tales to tell around the campfire.

Day 3-4: The two days will include more fishing, floating, riverside meals, and rapids until late afternoon when you reach West Glacier. Trip includes 13 named rapids, mostly Class II and III whitewater (medium whitewater with numerous waves, narrow passages, eddies and bends), including Tunnel and Jaws. Watch for our photographer at Bonecrusher and be sure to view your digital photos after the trip! You'll paddle through the same rapids where Meryl Streep guided her family on the river in the exciting Universal film "The River Wild." Once you get back to our office, there will be time to view trip photos, pick out some souvenirs and pack up your memories of the special magic of the Middle Fork of the Flathead River.

General trip information links:
map & directions
general information
packing list