Enjoy an exciting half-day whitewater rafting trip down the Flathead River in Glacier National Park. 

West Glacier

Glacier National Park whitewater rafting trip on the middle fork section of the Flathead River. Manoeuvre the raft through 9 different rapids by following the simple paddle commands of the guide. The trip winds about 8 miles through the John F. Stevens Canyon. The rapids are rated class 2 and 3, making for a fun and splashy family-friendly whitewater rafting adventure.

Arrive 30 minutes prior to departure and check-in at the office before meeting your friendly river guides. Leave your belongings in your car and your car keys for you at the front desk. Next, take a short 10-minute bus ride to the river. Your guide will launch the boat there, give you safety instructions, and you'll begin floating down the beautiful river.

Expectations for your Whitewater Rafting Trips

The journey starts on a 4-mile mellow section of the river, giving you plenty of time to learn to paddle and to adjust to being on the water. The rapids come on the second 4 miles of the trip and photographs of each boat are taken in the rapid named Bonecrusher. The raft will stop periodically to let you jump in and experience a dip in glacial water if you choose. You'll float under Glacier National Park's historic Belton Bridge towards the end of the trip. At the end of the trip, it's a short walk back from the river to the local partner's office in the village of West Glacier.

How long are the rafting trips?

The length of the trip depends on the river flow. In June through early July, it lasts about 2.5 hours, from mid-July to early August, about 3 hours, and from mid-August through the end of the season, approximately 3.5 hours. 

The more glacier melt the faster the river trip is going to be. However, sometimes the faster the river trip and river flow the older the passengers need to be. So consider this to be an important factor in making plans. 

Rafting Trip Tips

Safety and fun are the top priorities. Guides undergo training in river rescue techniques, first aid, and more. Many guides return year after year which helps them understand the constantly changing rafting conditions.

If conditions call for wetsuits, fleece, and river shoes, or if you would prefer to wear splash gear, it is always available at no extra cost. We supply most of the rafting equipment. (Helmets and life jackets are mandatory and provided.)

As a reminder, younger children typically remaining colder than adults. So if you're planning to Gove rafting with young children consider a wet suit from the beginning.