The North Fork of the Flathead River is one of Montana’s hidden gems — where breathtaking wilderness, crystal-clear waters and unspoiled beauty come together. This fast-flowing river, fed by pristine snowmelt, carves through rugged landscapes and offers an adventurous mix of rapids and peaceful, secluded pools waiting to be discovered.
Join us on an unforgettable two- or three-day rafting expedition through this untamed wilderness. Along the way, you’ll explore hidden pockets of nature, dine by the riverside and camp beneath Montana’s endless starry skies. With our expert guides leading the way, your adventure promises excitement, tranquility and memories to last a lifetime.
Are you ready to float into the wild?
2025 Dates: May 27 – September 30
Custom or private launches are available for groups of four or more. For inquiries or to book by phone: 1.406.888.5454
Our expert guides will ensure your every need is taken care of, from equipment and navigating to setting up camp and cooking dinners by the riverside.
Check-in at Paddle Ridge to make sure all waivers have been signed. Meet your trip leader and grab your dry bag for tomorrow’s trip.
Note that this is a sample itinerary, and all trips vary depending on weather and river conditions, campsites and guests’ needs.
Morning
Arrive at Paddle Ridge in West Glacier at 7:30 a.m.
Your guides will load your dry bag onto the shuttle, which you’ll take upriver to the launch point. Drives up the North Fork range from 30 minutes to a little over an hour depending on which launch point is decided.
At the launch point, the guide team will rig the boats and gear. Meanwhile, your lead guide will deliver an orientation and safety talk ahead of your river adventure.
Each participant will undergo helmet and PFD fit checks. Wetsuits, booties, splash tops and fleece jackets are also included on all early-season and cold-weather trips.
Spend the next few hours floating down the river taking in the flora, fauna and overall grandeur of the North Fork of the Flathead River.
Afternoon
Paddle down the scenic North Fork where, at the peak of the summer, the river is so clear you can see fish hanging out at the bottom.
Pull over for lunch, stretch your legs and take a quick dip in the river if the day is hot.
After lunch, continue to float down river. This region is home to an abundance of wildlife, including the westslope cutthroat trout in the water and bald eagles in the skies.
Evening
Arrive at the campsite with plenty of time to relax on the beach or chat with new friends as the guides prepare a delicious dinner. Guests are welcome to bring cards, games, books or other small activities to enjoy during downtime.
Sleep beneath the stars, nestled in your sleeping bag.
Morning
Start your day with a hot breakfast and freshly brewed coffee, prepared by your guides.
After breakfast, pack up camp.
Set off on the water, paddling as the glacier-carved river winds through the beautiful wilderness. Guides will share stories of the area and point out features that make the North Fork unique.
Afternoon
Pull over for lunch, prepared by your guides.
Head back on the river. Take a moment as you paddle towards the takeout to revel in the final stretch of your journey.
Depart the river and shuttle back to Paddle Ridge.
Check-in at Paddle Ridge to make sure all waivers have been signed. Meet your trip leader and grab your dry bag for tomorrow’s trip.
Note that this is a sample itinerary, and all trips vary depending on weather and river conditions, campsites and guests’ needs.
Morning
Arrive at Paddle Ridge in West Glacier at 7:30 a.m.
Your guides will load your dry bag onto the shuttle, which you’ll take upriver to the launch point. Drives up the North Fork range from 30 minutes to a little over an hour depending on which launch point is decided.
At the launch point, the guide team will rig the boats and gear. Meanwhile, the lead guide will deliver an orientation and safety talk ahead of your unforgettable river adventure.
Afternoon
Paddle and float down the glacially carved North Fork of the Flathead River.
Pull over for lunch on the riverside.
After lunch, paddle to the camp site while the guides share stories about the North Fork.
Evening
Guides will set up camp and prepare dinner while you change into dry clothes and enjoy your free time at the campsite.
Spend the evening exploring the area, relaxing by the river or sharing stories near the campfire. Guest are welcome to bring cards, games, a book or other small activities to enjoy during downtime.
Morning
Start your day with a hot breakfast and freshly brewed coffee, prepared by your guides.
After breakfast, pack up camp and continue paddling down the river.
The North Fork is home to an abundance of wildlife, from the native and wild westslope cutthroat trout in the water to ospreys and bald eagles in the sky.
Afternoon
Pull over for a riverside lunch prepared by your guides. Cool off in the river on a hot day or stretch your legs on the beach. After lunch, continue paddling through the mountain vistas towards the next campsite. Our guides are passionate outdoor enthusiasts with deep knowledge of the regions flora and fauna, geology, history and other fun facts.
Evening
Arrive at camp where our guides will prepare a delicious dinner. Their culinary expertise spans from traditional Dutch oven dishes to cherished family recipes.
Enjoy downtime by the fire sharing stories, skipping rocks on the riverbank or stargazing under the Montana big sky.
Bundle up in your sleeping bag and drift off to the peaceful sounds of the river.
Morning
Guides will have breakfast cooking and hot coffee ready for you when you wake up.
After breakfast, pack up camp.
Set off on the river paddling and floating through the beautiful wilderness.
In the peak of summer, the river is so clear you can see the fish at the bottom of the deepest pools on the river.
Afternoon
Pull over for lunch, prepared by your guides.
Head back on the river and paddle to the takeout. Soak in the last stretch of Montana wilderness and reminisce on the adventure you shared.
Depart the river and shuttle back to Paddle Ridge.
| Dates | Departure Time | Trip Length | River Miles | River Rating |
| May 27 – September 30 | 8 a.m. 2 day trips every Friday 3 day trips every Tuesday |
2 – 3 days | 23 – 35* | Class I–II |
| Dates | May 27 – September 30 |
| Departure Time | 8 a.m. 2 day trips every Friday 3 day trips every Tuesday |
| Trip Length | 2 – 3 days |
| River Miles | 23 – 35* |
| River Rating | Class I–II |
Select a month below to view availability.
Last updated: December 20, 2024
| Trip Length | Available Departure Dates |
|---|---|
| 2 Days Departs Fridays |
September 5 September 12 September 19 September 26 |
| 3 Days Departs Tuesdays |
September 2 September 9 September 16 September 23 |
Save time at check in by submitting your online waiver.
Questions? Contact our Local Experts
Call an expert today at 1.844.868.7474.
Alternatively, fill out the form below and a member of our team will respond within 24 hours (weekdays) and 48 hours (weekends).
