Summer and biking activities open for booking January 15.Get the email when they open

Hike and Float with Glacier Hikes & Bikes near Glacier National Park
Guided

Hike and Float

A guided 4-mile hike to a pristine alpine lake in the Flathead National Forest, then an afternoon floating it on a packraft, with lunch by the water.

Price
Contact to Book
Style
Guided
Starts
Columbia Falls shop
Distance
4 miles with 800 feet of gain
Meets At
Our shop in Columbia Falls

Hike to a pristine alpine lake in the Flathead National Forest, then spend the afternoon floating it on a packraft, with lunch by the water and a guide who carries the boats.

Nestled just outside Glacier National Park, our most popular hike and float tour blends hiking and packrafting into one unforgettable day in some of Montana’s most beautiful country.

The Hike

The trail covers a scenic 4 miles with an 800-foot elevation gain. This manageable yet invigorating hike leads to a pristine alpine lake, where the adventure truly begins. Along the way you are surrounded by towering trees and wildflowers, with the chance to spot local wildlife.

The Float

At the lake, your guide unpacks the equipment for the next phase. Our packrafts weigh about 3 pounds each; with the life vest and paddle it comes to around 6 pounds per person, light enough to carry on the hike, and the guide carries the first two packrafts, paddles and life vests. Life vests are provided and worn at all times on the water.

Lunch

We provide locally made fresh sandwiches, eaten lakeside with the view.

Fishing

If you have a Montana state fishing license and a pole, you are welcome to bring them and try your luck at the lake. Our guides are not fishing guides and do not provide fishing instruction or equipment.

Safety

Each trip includes a guide who knows the local area, its plants and animals, and is trained in safety protocols. Life vests are provided and must be worn at all times while on the water.

Who It Suits

Whether you are an experienced adventurer or new to the outdoors, this trip is for anyone who wants to experience Montana’s natural splendor on foot and on the water in one day. Want a day of hiking only? See our guided day hikes. Want the boat on your own time? Rent a packraft.

What's Included

  • Guide
  • Packrafts, paddles and life vests
  • Locally made sandwiches for lunch

Not Included

  • Guide gratuity
  • Fishing license and gear

Good to Know

How do I book this?
Use the Contact button to send your dates and how many are in your group, and we confirm by email. You can also call the shop.
How hard is the hike?
A scenic 4-mile trail with an 800-foot elevation gain to the lake: manageable and invigorating, built for anyone reasonably active, new to the outdoors or not.
Do I carry the raft?
Our packrafts weigh about 3 pounds each; with the life vest and paddle it comes to around 6 pounds per person. Your guide carries the first two packrafts, paddles and life vests.
Is lunch included?
Yes. Locally made fresh sandwiches, eaten lakeside.
Can I fish?
If you have a Montana fishing license and a pole, bring them and try your luck at the lake. Our guides are not fishing guides and do not provide fishing instruction or equipment.
Is this inside Glacier National Park?
No. The trip runs just outside the park in the Flathead National Forest.

From Recent Guests

5.0 from 247 Google Reviews

“I had an exceptional experience with Glacier Hikes and Bikes. Bring a relatively inexperienced rider, I was a little worried about what to expect. The bikes were delivered in exceptional condition, including the helmets. I appreciated the thorough instructions and reassurance of what to expect. We had a great ride in Glacier, and will absolutely rent from this outfitter again. 5 stars!!!!”

Cindy GerhartOctober 2026

“We just took a tour with glacier hikes and bikes out of Columbia Falls of the glacier national Forest. Brandon was our guide and did an amazing job. He knew the area very well pointed out all the highlights to us and just made it a great day. they were very accommodating highly recommend.”

Jay PattersonSeptember 2026

“My family e-biked Camas Road with Glacier Hikes & Bikes and had the most wonderful time! Stellar guide, great equipment, and amazing overall experience. If you are looking for a company to hike or bike in Montana with, book with Glacier Hikes & Bikes!”

Emilie SangiminoSeptember 2026

Where to Meet

7309 Hwy 2 E, Columbia Falls, MT 59912

A hiker at an alpine lake below snowy peaks

Your Next Ride Starts Here

Pick a date and see everything you can book, or call the shop and talk to someone who rides these roads every week.

Find a DateContact the Shop