Hike a boat to a lake nobody else can reach. Our Alpacka packrafts pack down to the size of a sleeping bag, weigh under 5 pounds, and inflate in under 10 minutes.
Packrafts are for solo adventurers, hike-in trips to alpine lakes, backcountry river runs, and anyone who wants to go where the crowds are not. This is the absolute best way to escape the crowds and experience the peace and beauty of Northwest Montana. Packrafting is the rental we talk about most after bikes, and once you have floated an alpine lake you will see why.
The Boats
We rent Alpacka Scout, Caribou and Gnarwall models, renowned for durability and lightweight design. They are built for Class I and II water, which makes them ideal for calm, scenic floats on lakes and the gentler river sections. Each rental includes the packraft, a paddle and a personal flotation device, and our staff gives a brief orientation on the gear and the essential safety tips before you set out.
Where to Go
Hidden alpine lakes (hike-in only): the whole point of a packraft. Hike in, paddle a remote lake, hike out. Ask us at pickup for current trail conditions.
North Fork Flathead River (35 minute drive): a Class I to II wilderness float, best from June through September, with multi-hour to multi-day options depending on your put-in.
Middle Fork Flathead (45 minute drive): put in at Belton Bridge for the lower stretch.
South Fork of the Flathead and the Bob Marshall Wilderness: the multi-day classic, a hike-in float through the Bob. Read our South Fork packrafting guide and the story of six days in the Bob before you plan one.
Lake McDonald (in Glacier National Park, 25 minute drive): mirror water under the peaks. You need a park entrance pass and a free Aquatic Invasive Species inspection at the park entrance before launching.
Flathead River mainstem and the Whitefish River: gentle, scenic floats close to town, with some fun Class I sections on the mainstem.
Shuttle
We offer a shuttle service for the nearby rivers, so you can get to your put-in and be picked up at the take-out. Ask when you book.
Before You Launch
Personal flotation devices are required by Montana law for everyone on the water, and we provide them with every rental. Even in July, glacier-fed water is 50 degrees or colder: dress for a swim, not for the shore. The North Fork has Class II rapids in places; if you are new to moving water, ask us at pickup which sections to stick to. Weather changes fast, and we check the forecast with you at pickup.
Rather Go With a Guide?
Our Hike and Float day puts a guide and the boats on an alpine lake with you. For a group on the river, see the 14-foot raft.
