A rafting adventure in the rivers of Northwest Montana is an experience that’s hard to sum up in just a few words.
But I’ll do my best to capture the essence of what turned out to be one of the most exciting adventures of my life. Also, I will give you some extra tips if you are considering taking this journey, which, just so you know, I highly recommend.
Choose the right river
Northwest Montana is a playground of rivers, each offering its own excitement. As I like to say – there’s a river here for everyone.
Picking the perfect river for your adventure means thinking about a few things like:
- how much rafting experience you have
- how adventurous you’re feeling
- when you’re planning to hit the water
If you’re new to rafting, you might enjoy the smoother parts of the Flathead River or the Lower Whitefish River. These spots are great for beginners, offering gentle rapids and gorgeous views to ease you into rafting.
For experienced rafters, who crave more excitement, the Middle Fork of the Flathead River or the Yaak River, with their wild Class III and IV rapids, will definitely get your adrenaline pumping.
For example, I chose Glacier Raft Co. This rafting location lies right on the border of Glacier National Park, on the North and Middle Forks of the Flathead River. For someone like me, who is somewhere in between beginner and thrill-seeker, the Middle Fork offered the perfect balance of nature’s beauty and heart-pumping rapids.
How to prepare for this adventure?
First, choosing your outfit for the rafting is more about practicality than fashion.
For those sunny day trips, you can stick to the basics: shorts, a T-shirt, and shoes that are up for a swim but won’t leave your feet. Trust me, Crocs and flip-flops won’t do you any favors here.
But on cooler days, which are pretty common in this part of Montana, layering up with a fleece sweater, wind pants, and a hat or beanie made all the difference in keeping cozy.
For those particularly brisk days, just add an extra layer against the splash, wetsuits, and neoprene booties, that are available for rent at $17. The best part? If the weather decides not to play nice, they provide wetsuits at no extra cost. Each of us got a life jacket for the ride, as safety is a top priority here.
Also, it’s crucial to understand how to maneuver your raft, respond to commands of your guide, and act in case of emergencies. Participate in safety briefings, understand the route, familiarize yourself with safety equipment, and know how to use it.
Gear list
| Item | Purpose | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Life jacket | Safety | Essential for flotation and safety |
| Helmet | Safety | Protects your head during the trip |
| Synthetic or wool clothing for insulation | Insulation | Keeps you warm in cold water |
| Sturdy water shoes | Foot protection | Ensures good grip and foot protection in and out of the water |
| Waterproof bags for valuables | Protect valuables | Keeps your valuables dry |
| High-energy snacks | Sustenance | Provides energy during the expedition |
| Water | Hydration | Keeps you hydrated |
What are the rapid classes?
The International Scale of River Difficulty classifies rapids into six classes, from Class I (easy) to Class VI (extremely dangerous).
If you’re looking for an exciting challenge, I highly recommend the Class III rapids of Northwest Montana as a golden middle.
These waves can reach up to 4 or 5 feet tall crashing over the front of your raft. They have currents that feel stronger and might push you through narrow spaces between boulders or alongside a cliff wall. Your boat will feel the thrill too, with a bit of shimmying and jolting as you ride these larger waves. But don’t worry, after each wild ride, there’s usually a calmer, wider area waiting to give you a breather and get ready for the next rush.
Choosing Class III rapids will give you adrenaline and joy, especially with a guide steering the boat. They know how to handle the river’s surprises, making sure everyone stays safe while having a blast.
Are you going at it without a guide? That’s when things can get tricky. Class III rapids demand respect and a bit of know-how to enjoy them fully and safely, so don’t go on your own if you don’t have experience and skills. The Middle Fork of the Flathead River is well known for its Class III rapids, especially in the spring flow.
Safety tips you should know!
| Safety guidelines |
|---|
| Wear a well-fitted life jacket and helmet at all times |
| Stay within your comfort zone and choose a river suitable for your skill level |
| Be aware of potential hazards like strainers, undercut rocks, and extreme weather conditions |
| Listen to your guide, follow instructions, and practice good communication with your raft team |
| Ensure your physical condition aligns with the demands of your chosen river |
| Know basic first aid, rescue procedures, and emergency evacuation routes |
What else can you experience in Northwest Montana?
Hiking in Glacier National Park
After conquering the rapids, explore the breathtaking landscapes of Glacier National Park. With over 700 miles of trails, you can discover pristine lakes, towering mountains, and diverse wildlife while walking through these nature’s wonders.
Scenic drives
I drove on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, one of the country’s most scenic drives. And I highly recommend it to everyone visiting this area. You will see panoramic views of snowy peaks, cascading waterfalls, and alpine meadows as you drive through the heart of the park.
I drove on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, known for its stunning views. I saw mountains, waterfalls, and meadows. It was beautiful and made the trip through the park really special.
Wildlife exploring
Northwest Montana is home to a diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose, elk, and bighorn sheep. Go on a wildlife safari and see beautiful creatures roaming their natural habitats.
Fishing
Try fishing in the Flathead River or any beautiful alpine lake around northwest Montana. This area is perfect for anyone who loves fishing, no matter if you’re just starting or have lots of experience. There are plenty of fish varieties, like trout, whitefish, yellow perch, and other local types.
Camping
Extend your outdoor adventure by spending a night under the stars at one of the numerous campgrounds in Glacier National Park or the surrounding wilderness areas. Fall asleep to the soothing sounds of nature and wake up to breathtaking views of the Montana wilderness.
Have unforgettable moments with friends and family
This is an ideal activity to bond with friends and family. As you work together to deal with the wild waters and support each other during challenging rapids, you will bond and create unforgettable memories.
Rafting teaches teamwork, as each member has a crucial role in guiding the raft safely. It builds trust and gives a sense of shared accomplishment that strengthens bonds. Even after the adventure ends, the shared stories and experiences continue to bring you closer.
FAQs:
Hello, my name is Harper Barton. The only thing I love more than travelling is writing about it. Sounds strange doesn’t it? But yeah, I adore writing and sharing my experiences about what I have experienced during my travels. Since I am a person who loves being a part of the community, I often write about local festivals with the goal of popularizing outside just small communities they come from.
