Every once in a while an opportunity comes along that's just too exciting to pass up and this four-day trip is one of those opportunities. Glacier Raft Company would like to invite you to join them on their four-day Great Bear Wilderness Whitewater adventure.
In a country where so many great rivers are dammed and their flow regulated by government rather than nature, there's a special magic about the Upper Middle Fork of the Flathead River, part of the nation's Wild and Scenic River System, and all its natural free-flowing splendor. Experience this adventure first-hand. You'll see the magnificent scenery, experience Class II, III and IV rapids, enjoy the taste of gourmet meals and then be able to tell tall tales around the campfire before crawling into your tent alongside the river.
In 1978, the Great Bear Wilderness Area was established as a corridor linking the Bob Marshall Wilderness and Glacier National Park. Combined, these wilderness areas total approximately three million acres, the largest tract of wilderness lands in the lower contiguous United States. Flowing through the heart of this rugged and beautiful landscape, the Upper Middle Fork of the Flathead River carves its way through the glacial valleys and lush forests of Northwest Montana. Known as Montana's mightiest river, this upper section of the river is one of the most protected rivers in the United States. Years of hard-fought conservation efforts have kept this the most pristine river in the United States. Glacier Raft Company is proud to be the only Montana outfitter permitted to operate float trips on this portion of the Upper Middle Fork.
Until about July 10 (this date can vary by several weeks depending on the previous winter's snow pack), your trip will begin with a panoramic flight over the wilderness area to a remote airstrip along the headwaters of the Flathead River at Schafer Meadows. As the summer season progresses and the river recedes near the headwaters, you’ll access the Great Bear Wilderness and the river at a point where it is navigable via an easy trail. This scenic hike takes you through the beautiful Granite Creek Valley and takes about two hours. If you prefer not to hike in, arrangements can be made to have a horse take you to the river for an additional $50.00 fee. The next 3½ days will be spent paddle rafting and camping along the Upper Middle Fork. You'll experience exciting whitewater and good fishing. The rapids of "Spruce Park Gorge", "Lunch Creek", and "25-Mile Creek" make this a real adventure. The lower water trips (after July 10) are especially good for the avid fisherman. The whitewater is still exciting though more moderate and technical, and Glacier Raft Company uses smaller rafts with everyone paddling.
The Upper Middle Fork has a bounty of native Cutthroat trout as do the high mountain lakes in this area. Glacier Raft Co. incorporates a short 1½-mile hike into one of these mountain-cradled, crystal blue lakes. Please keep in mind this trip is mainly set up as a river trip and not a fishing trip, although there are opportunities to fish in camp and during lunch stops. If you're interested in an exclusive fishing trip, Glacier Raft Co. could customize the trip for your group. Their emphasis on this trip is the overall experience--camping, rafting, hiking, fishing and enjoying the great outdoors. The agenda is subject to change due to trail conditions, weather, water levels and group interests. This trip combines the best in outdoor excitement and you're sure to enjoy this wilderness adventure.
Imagine the following:
Mountain goats standing precariously on a rock cliff,
A mother deer leading her fawn down to the edge of the water for a drink,
A Westslope Cutthroat trout leaping from the water as you glide by in the raft,
A bald eagle soaring overhead,
Spring wildflowers blooming in the meadows and hillsides as you slowly float beside them.
These spectacular scenes are all part of the Upper Middle Fork of the Flathead River.
You'll love the adventure and excitement of the rapids, appreciate the quiet of the calm stretches, and feel better having spent four days with Mother Nature in all her natural splendor. It should not be forgotten that this is a "wild" river, and, as the classification of this river implies, it should not be taken lightly. You should be in good physical condition for this trip and be prepared for excitement in this natural setting.
Trip Details
Duration
4 Days/3 Nights
Location
Middle Fork of Flathead River
Season
June - August
Trip Type
Paddle
Nearest City
West Glacier, MT
Physical Condition Required
Excellent
Destination(s)
Montana, United States
Rated Classes
II-IV
Guest Capacity
12
Minimum Age Limit
16
Distance Traveled
32 Miles
Inflatable Kayaks
Available for Experienced Paddlers Only
Additional Activities
Fishing, Swimming, Off River Hiking/Exploring
Dining
All Meals Included
About Liquor
BYOB for Evening
Rates
$1,395.00per personCurrency Converter (Rates shown are in US Dollars. Rates and terms are subject to change.)
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Reservation Policy
50% deposit required; balance due 45 days pror to check-in.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations must be received 45 days prior to arrival to receive refund less 25% of total; cancellations within 45 days are non-refundable but 75% may be applied to another trip within one year.
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