Though the waters that are actually in the park don't lend themselves to white-water rafting, the boundary forks of the Flathead River are some of the best in the northwest corner of the state. For just taking it easy and floating on your back in the summer sun, the North Fork of the Flathead River stretching from Polebridge to Columbia Falls and into Flathead Lake is ideal. Portaging in Polebridge can be difficult, however. The same may be said for the Middle Fork of the Flathead, at the southern border of the park.
For white-water voyagers, the North Fork of the Flathead River (Class II, III) and the Middle Fork (Class III) are the best bets. Inquire at any ranger station for details and conditions, since flow rates change dramatically as snow melts or storms move through the area.
The Middle Fork is a little more severe; the names of certain stretches (such as the Narrows, Jaws, and Bonecrusher) are terror-inspiring in themselves. To assuage that terror, several outfitters offer expert and sanctioned guided trips.
The Montana Raft Company (tel. 800/521-RAFT or 406/387-5555; fax 406/387-5656; www.glacierguides.com) is an arm of Glacier Wilderness Guides that offers rafting trips in Glacier and the surrounding area. Prices range from half-day adult for $38 (child $29), to a 3-day trip at about $430 per person. Prices cover equipment and food. Trips are scheduled throughout the season. The full-day trip puts in at Cacadilla about 15 miles (24km) up the Flathead River. You'll paddle down the relatively calm upper portion, stop for lunch, then be ready for the Class II and Class III white water below Moccasin Creek.
Great Northern Whitewater Raft & Resort (tel. 800/735-7897 or 406/387-5340; www.gnwhitewater.com) offers white-water rafting, kayaking, and drift-boat fishing. Full-day raft trips are $71 for adults, $46 for children (12 and under); full-day fishing trips are $295. Horseback riding and rafting combos are also available by arrangement. You can choose between trips where you paddle, or where a guide paddles for you. Other options include scenic and white-water trips, and an 8-mile (13km) barbecue dinner trip that leaves at 3pm.
