Enjoy a day, half-day or multi-day trip on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River, along the southwestern boundary of Glacier National Park, with raft companies headquartered just outside West Glacier.

There are four rafting companies located just outside West Glacier that hold U.S. Forest Service permits to float either the Middle Fork or North Fork of the Flathead River. For more information or to book a raft trip call:

Glacier Guides/Montana Raft 1 800 521-7238
Glacier Raft Company 1 800 235-6781
Great Northern Raft Company 406 387-5340
Wild River Adventures 406 387-9453

You'll be floating through John Stevens Canyon where the rapids are rated class III and IV, which makes for a fun and splashy adventure. Following the simple commands of the guides, you will actually become part of the crew that maneuvers your craft. Be sure to wear clothes you won’t mind getting wet.

For a more mild river experience try a float through the scenic section of the Middle Fork of the Flathead from West Glacier to Blankenship Bridge. This beautiful, mellow float, passes through a steep, walled canyon. The float is a relaxing trip for all age groups. Or try a beautifully scenic float on the North Fork of the Flathead River on the western boundary of Glacier National Park.

From lake kayaking and canoe paddling to whitewater kayaking, the variety of lakes and rivers around Whitefish will inspire any paddler to action.

The Whitefish River Canoe Trail runs right through town. A good put-in point is at City Beach with take-out at Riverside Park. The river through Whitefish is typically slow-moving enough to allow for relatively easy paddling back upstream.

The Middlefork of the Flathead river offers Class III and IV whitewater while the Northfork of the Flathead river is excellent for whitewater canoeing or novice kayaking--with more modest Class II and III waves. Always check locally on water conditions and river levels before venturing out.

Whitefish Lake and the many other lakes in the area, including the Beaver Lake basin, provide miles of shoreline to explore and an opportunity for paddlers to view wildlife.