by Jason Shreder | Dec 7, 2016 | Uncategorized
The perfect gift for your special river rat
If you dislike holiday shopping as much as we do, we are here to help! Our guides got together and discussed our favorite pieces of gear from 2016. We’ve put this gear to the test, and we’re excited share with you what we love the most.
At ZTS we are grateful we get to work on the river. Using functional, smart, durable gear makes our job even more enjoyable.
Astral Loyak shoes
Love these shoes! They are not only look good enough for town, but are super comfortable too. What we like: comfy, quick-drying, packable, breathable, grippy soles, and the heels fold down for a unique “slipper effect.”
Patagonia Tropical Hoody
Many of our guides had to buy two of these hoodies because wearing one every day got too stinky! On a hot day, we dip this hoody in the river to help keep us cool. What we like: lightweight sun protection, huge hood, baggy fit, quick-drying.
Hydro Flask water bottle
There is nothing better than reaching for your water bottle during a hot day on the river and sipping on some icy cold water. Hydro Flask makes us feel like we’re giving ourselves a tip each time we take a swig! What we like: keeps liquids icy cold all day, durable, multiple size options, stainless steel.
Sol Gear drag bag
Beverages are tasty on the river, and we’ve found that keeping your favorite beverages within reach is a real crowd pleaser. What we like: multiple sizes to choose from, simple attachment, easy open/close, exceptional beverage organization and security.
by Jason Shreder | Nov 8, 2016 | Uncategorized
Hey, what’s in the bag?
Have you ever been on a river trip and noticed that all the guides are carrying waterproof bags around with them? It often goes unnoticed…until you’re the one that needs something out of that magical bag. Most folks don’t put much thought to it, but once you do, you’ll be amazed at some of the things that guides carry with them. The laundry list of contents isn’t really a shocker for industry folks: it’s our job to be overly prepared and to always expect the unexpected.
Here is an look inside a seasoned river guide’s bag.
The bag of preference? The ubiquitous Watershed Ocoee.
All the goodies inside the bag:
Parachute cord
Granola bars
Zip ties
Multi-tool
Knife
Small first aid kit
Fleece beanie
Fleece shirt
Sunscreen
Hand sanitizer
Hydration tablets
Headlamp
Extra batteries
Carabiners
Lens cleaning wipes
6’ NRS strap
Paper and pen
Sewing kit
Toilet paper
What you put in your bag is completely up to you. Many times it depends on the weather, elemental challenges unique to the river, and the amount of time you’ll be on the water. A happy, well-prepared group on the river equals fun for everyone involved. You would be surprised how far the littlest things go, and when someone needs something, there is great joy in saying, “I got you covered.”
by Jason Shreder | Aug 15, 2016 | Uncategorized
When you first arrive in Missoula, you will soon discover that many locals are rooted in the river. It’s hard to not be when you have three rivers that converge in the Missoula Valley: the Blackfoot, Bitterroot, and Clark Fork Rivers all come together here. All three offer different levels of recreation and fishing opportunities. No matter which one you choose, you won’t be let down on a hot day here in Western Montana.
GO TUBIN’!
You know summer has begun here in Missoula when the “tuber hatch” begins. This essentially means that spring runoff is over, the water has warmed up, and it’s blazing hot outside. The lower Blackfoot River and the in-town section of the Clark Fork River see most of the tube action.
Here is what you need to know before you go:
You can rent or buy a tube from dozens of local downtown business.
Grab a six pack of beer, with a mesh bag for your empty cans.
Be prepared to get wet if or when you float through Brennan’s Wave.
East Missoula (Sha Ron access) to downtown Missoula – four miles of river – is the most popular section for tubers.
GO RAFTING!
The Clark Fork River runs right through the heart of Missoula and opportunities for a scenic tour or whitewater adventure are right at your fingertips. Since the removal of Milltown Dam in 2008, folks can now float through the confluence of the Blackfoot and Clark Fork Rivers, just east of Missoula and continue right through downtown. There are plenty of options for rafting when you visit Missoula depending on your sense of adventure, ability, and timeframe.
What you need to know:
In early spring, the Lochsa River, just over Lolo Pass, is the crown jewel for whitewater. The Lochsa season is short (end of April through May), so time your trip well. You don’t want to miss out on this world class whitewater experience!
The Alberton Gorge on the Clark Fork River is just 35 minutes west of Missoula and offers fantastic whitewater all year long.
The iconic Blackfoot River is just east of Missoula has numerous sections for all ability levels.
GO KAYAKING!
Whitewater kayaking is one of the best ways to see the river. Missoula offers a perfect location for all skill levels. Most beginners start in flat water and progress to slow moving water. Underwater comfort and learning the Eskimo roll are essential skills for whitewater kayaking. If whitewater kayaking isn’t your thing, then you can always go with a recreational or inflatable kayak, both of which require less skill and experience.
What you need to know:
Call a local outfitter or shop for a beginner whitewater kayak lesson.
Prepare to get wet! Kayaking is sometimes affectionately referred to as an “underwater” sport!
Many outfitters offer inflatable kayak trips alongside raft trips.
GO SURFING!
Feel the pulse of the river by learning how to surf Brennan’s Wave on the Clark Fork! River surfing has taken Missoula by storm and is a very popular activity with folks of all ages and abilities. River surfing is all about finding that perfect standing wave and lapping it all day long.
Here is what you need to know:
Know and understand water levels, hazards, river etiquette, and the basics of the sport before you go. Go to a local shop for rentals, lessons, and general information.
We sure hope you like swimming!
GO STAND UP PADDLE BOARDING!
If you can walk down a sidewalk without falling the you can learn how to SUP! There are many great lakes just north of Missoula, as your heading towards Seeley Lake or try something really easy like Frenchtown Pond. Rent a board from a local shop and try paddling up and downstream in between the Higgins and Arthur Street bridges in downtown Missoula.
Here is what you need to know:
Know and understand the river conditions. Make sure you have all of the proper gear (PFD, Paddle, Water, River Shoes, Sun Protection). Did you set a shuttle?
The local shops will give you a quick lesson on proper stance, how to hold your paddle, and all the other details you might need to know before you go
Paddling when it’s windy out is not much fun!
by Jason Shreder | Jul 25, 2016 | Uncategorized
Ok. So you’re heading out to visit the magical river town of Missoula, Montana. You’re sitting at home before your trip, wondering what you should do while you visit. Sure, you can hit the good ol’ interweb for some information, but do you really trust those internet reviews? Or that list of suggestions that are sponsored by the companies themselves? I sure don’t. I would rather find out for myself or pick a local’s brain on where to eat, drink, and recreate.
We present to you now (drumroll, please…!): our suggestions for THE BEST DAY EVER IN MISSOULA, straight from the perspective of a local.
EDIBLES
Breakfast
The Catalyst by far is our favorite breakfast place! Great service, tasty potato casseroles (green chile + pepperjack cheese!), and really good coffee combine to make a great way to start your day.
If you prefer a bakery over a sit-down place, we recommend Le Petit Outre, located on Missoula’s Hip Strip. Delicious coffee and baked treats (try an almond croissant!) will get you going in the right direction.
Lunch
Our buddies over at El Diablo know how to roll burritos and stuff them with ingredients that are prepared fresh daily. The cilantro lime sauce is our favorite!
The Top Hat serves a great lunch or dinner. The bar was renovated in 2013 and is a staple for live music, homemade food, and really good burgers. They also have a super fun tapas (small plate) menu!
Dinner
If you’re looking for great cocktails, truffle fries, and sweet potato tater tots, look no further than James Bar. (For a rowdy nightcap: James Bar is connected to one of the most legendary bars in Missoula, Al’s and Vic’s.)
Located at the corner of space and time, Charlie B’s is perhaps Missoula’s most iconic drinking establishment. The Dino Café is hidden at the back of the bar and has some of the best cajun/southern-style food in all of Montana. (A word to the wise: you don’t need to ask for a double when you order a cocktail at Charlie B’s!)
EXPLORATION
Hiking
Rattlesnake Recreation Area: Head north on from Missoula on Van Buren and park at the main trailhead. From there, you’ll find tons of trails that will lead you in all different directions.
Waterworks Hill: There are a few different access points, but try parking at the Orange Street exit and just start heading uphill for a great view of Missoula. You can make this hike as short as 30 minutes or explore its huge network of meandering trails for hours.
Kim Williams Trail: This trail parallels our beloved Clark Fork River. It’s relatively flat, so it’s perfect for cruising on a bike and checking out town.
Water
The Blackfoot, Clark Fork, and Bitterroot Rivers all confluence in the Missoula Valley. Getting out on the water is one of the most popular activities for visitors and local Missoulians.
Most of the local raft companies offer trips with departures throughout the day. We recommend going for the early trip (9:00) or afternoon trip (4:00) in order to beat the crowds. The classic whitewater experience is the legendary Alberton Gorge, just 30 minutes west of Missoula. For a more mellow and super scenic adventure, consider floating through the confluence of the Blackfoot and Clark Fork Rivers, making your way through Hellgate Canyon, with the trip finishing up in downtown Missoula.
Stand-up paddle boarding: If you can walk down a sidewalk without falling, YOU can stand-up paddleboard! And you can do it right in downtown Missoula! Rent your boards and get more info from Strongwater Mountain Surf Company, LB Snow, or The Trail Head.
Go fish! Our rivers are treasured and renowned trout fisheries. If you’re an angler, you’d forever regret passing up the opportunity to experience the fishing around Missoula. We recommend checking out Blackfoot River Outfitters.
OTHER MISSOULA MUST-DOS
Chill out at Big Dipper Ice Cream.
Walk through the University of Montana campus.
Hike to the “M,” halfway up Mount Sentinel, right above campus.
Watch the kayakers and river surfers do their best tricks at Brennan’s Wave in downtown Missoula’s Caras Park.
by Jason Shreder | Jun 8, 2016 | Uncategorized
Which river trip is best for YOU?
Most river outfitters offer a variety of options and finding out which one is best for you or your group can be tricky. Lots of factors play into the decision: a scenic float vs. a whitewater adventure, a short day on the water or a long one, overall group ability, kids or no kids, etc. We are here to help you determine which trip is best suited to your group’s sense of adventure and unique needs. Remember, whatever you decide, spending time on the river is supposed to be fun…so let’s make it fun!
KAYAKING
Kayaking is one of the best sports in the world. It encompasses so many wonderful elements: nature, balance, speed, uncertainty, patience, skill, and adaptability. There is a certain measure of individuality but at the same time you can enjoy in the sport with all of your paddler friends. There are quite a few sub-disciplines within the sport of kayaking, and a different boat is used for each one. Below I’m going to talk about two of the more popular disciplines: inflatable kayaks and hard shell whitewater kayaks.
Hard shell kayaks
Whitewater kayaking in hard shell boats requires some experience before you just jump in the river and go. A lesson is highly recommended from a local kayak school. Understanding how to get in and out of your boat, underwater comfort, basic strokes, and learning the Eskimo roll are all essential skills for whitewater kayaking.
Inflatables
If you’ve already tried rafting, inflatables don’t require any prior kayaking experience and are a great way to see the river. Make sure you go with a company that also sends a guide in another kayak to paddle alongside you. It is important you understand what you’re getting into and have a general understanding of river awareness and safety before you go. These kayaks are easy to get in and out of and do not require a roll. When you fall out, you simply climb back in! Inflatable are great for a fun day in your own boat without much skill or experience.
RAFTING
Everyone has their own definition of what fun is. No matter which trip you choose, as an outfitter, we want you to have the best experience possible. It’s our job to match you or your group with the perfect trip based on ages, ability levels, and time frame, ensuring you have a great day on the river.
Whitewater
This is the trip for you if you want to paddle, get wet, and enjoy rapids. We have three personal goals for all our whitewater rafting clients: be a good self-rescuer, stay in the boat, and have fun. If you think you can accomplish these goals, then you should try whitewater rafting!
Scenic tours
Scenic raft trips are great for folks that want to enjoy the river without the risk of falling in or getting too wet. These trips are great for all ages and ability levels. If you have young kids, we recommend a shorter trip rather than longer.
Call us up and let us help you choose the best way to get on the river!
