A river runs through it, alright—many rivers, in fact. Glacier Country is home to lazy floats, whitewater adventures, paddle routes and blue-ribbon fishing streams. With wide-open landscapes and welcoming small towns, getting out on a pristine Western Montana river might just be the highlight of your trip. Here are eight ways to experience our rivers while visiting.
FLOAT THE CLEARWATER CANOE TRAIL
In the Seeley Swan Corridor, there’s a quiet stretch of the Clearwater River that winds through dense willow marsh, perfect for wildlife viewing and peaceful paddling. Motorboats are not allowed on the Clearwater Canoe Trail, so it’s a tranquil trip all the way to Seeley Lake. Bring your own canoe, paddleboard or kayak, or book a Clearwater Canoe Adventure (includes shuttle service) through Tamaracks Resort.
FISH ROCK CREEK AND THE BITTERROOT RIVER
Not far from Missoula, Rock Creek is one of Montana’s most prized blue-ribbon trout streams, perfect for mellow wade-fishing. National forest land surrounds the river, offering easy access and ample camping options. Stop by Rock Creek Fisherman’s Mercantile for gear and local insight. To the south, the Bitterroot River winds through the Bitterroot Valley and offers some of the best dry-fly-fishing in the state.
RIVERBOARD THE CLARK FORK
Running the rapids on a riverboard lets you get as up close and personal with the rapids as possible. And, it’s incredibly fun. Let Montana River Guides show you the way with this adrenaline-filled adventure on the Alberton Gorge near Missoula.
SIP AND SAVOR ON A SCENIC FLOAT TRIP
Montana Wood Boat Tours offers scenic, small-group drift tours in custom, handcrafted wooden boats, often paired with brunch or hors d’oeuvres, plus wildlife spotting and storytelling about the area. For a one-of-a-kind guided brewery float, check out River City Brews—where you can float the river in canopy seating while sipping local beer, wine, seltzer, cider or coffee along the way. It’s laid-back, local and all Montana.
SURF OR SPECTATE AT BRENNAN’S WAVE
In the heart of downtown Missoula, Brennan’s Wave brings surf culture to the mountains. This man-made wave on the Clark Fork River is a playground for kayakers and surfers—and a favorite spot for summer spectators. Watch the action from Caras Park or Beartracks Bridge, where the river scene comes alive.
RAFT THE FLATHEAD RIVER
The middle and north forks of the Flathead River offer some of the most scenic rafting in the state, with Glacier National Park as a stunning backdrop. Book a guided trip with Glacier Guides and Montana Raft for an experience you won’t forget.
TUBE THE CLARK FORK, BLACKFOOT OR SWAN RIVER
On hot summer days, nothing beats a lazy float down one of Western Montana’s iconic rivers. Calm waters and easy access make this favorite pastime one of the easiest ways to get on the river and cool off. You can rent tubes at various outfitters and shops in the area, tie them to your car and set off for the river “put in.” Don’t forget to have a car waiting for you at the takeout, depending on where you’re headed; popular routes include Sha-Ron to downtown Missoula on the Clark Fork River—shuttle service available through Clark Fork Yacht Club (paid) and the University of Montana (free)—Whittaker Bridge to Johnsrud on the Blackfoot River, and Swan River Fishing Access Site to Clay Cliffs on the Swan River.
GLOW WITH THE FLOW AT ROCKY MOUNTAIN GLASS KAYAKS
Add a new kind of adventure to your paddling experience with an illuminated clear kayak tour on the Whitefish River from Rocky Mountain Glass Kayak Company. These completely transparent boats are lit from within, creating a surreal experience as you glide across the water at sunset or under the stars. It’s part paddling, part stargazing, and totally unforgettable.
Please note: We ask that all our visitors and residents recreate responsibly by being mindful of the following: know before you go; plan ahead; play it safe; leave no trace; tread lightly; and help build an inclusive outdoors.
May 27, 2025
Related: Alberton, Bigfork, Bitterroot Valley, Boating, Clark Fork Corridor, Fishing, GNP Surrounding Area, Kayaking, Missoula, Montana, Outdoor Fun, Seeley Lake, Seeley-Swan Corridor, Summer Fun, Vacation, Water Fun, Whitefish
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