Whitewater Rafting Near Missoula

Whitewater Rafting Near Missoula

A family is on an orange zoo town surfers raft enjoying whitewater rafting near missoula on the alberton gorge river.

Vacation in Missoula, whoo-hoo! Welcome! We are so glad you’re here. Whether you are trekking to Missoula for the first time, make a yearly trip, or are a long-time local, we have a trip that will fit every group and every adventure level. Whitewater rafting is guaranteed to make your stay more enjoyable, especially on the hottest of days! Rafting in Missoula is one of the absolute best activities you can do on vacation. Read on to get the insider scoop on options for whitewater rafting near Missoula.

Zoo Town Surfers’ River Trips

Zoo Town Surfers has a variety of river trips for all skill levels. If you want something with a bit less adrenaline, we have some fantastic options for you to float through some incredible scenery and experience the area in a new way. Our Scenic and Town Floats provide a wonderful opportunity to experience the area from its incredible rivers.

Missoula Whitewater Rafting & Floats

There is no shortage of whitewater rafting near Missoula! Whether you want a fun adventure for the whole family, a whitewater experience close to Missoula, or an action-packed thrill ride, we have incredible options for you! The Alberton Gorge of the Clark Fork River has big, fun, splashy waves, plenty of spaces to swim and relax, and unforgettable scenery. Now that the water level is dropping the Alberton Gorge becomes the picturesque Montana adventure that every family dreams about. The cool thing is that your raft guide can “pick their line” and customize the trip for your family’s adventure level preferences. What we mean by this is that we can either minimize the rapids experience for you or ramp it up if you want to get an adrenaline rush or two.

Do you already know that you prefer a higher level of adventure? We highly suggest you raft with us in early spring on the Lochsa! The Lochsa River in Idaho is just a bit further south, about two hours, and it will not leave you disappointed. Come prepared to paddle, eat fantastic homemade BBQ, and experience the paddle of a lifetime on one of America’s best roadside whitewater day trips. The Lochsa features Class III & IV rapids, which is the highlight of the trip. A close second? The absolutely delicious homemade BBQ lunch we feed you! No joke, it’s often mentioned by guests as a reason to come back. 

Rafting Adventures Near Missoula

The Alberton Gorge

Rafting with kids? Newer to rafting? Bachelor Party? Unsure if whitewater is right for you? The Alberton Gorge on the Clark Fork River is a fantastic place to start! There is a lot of adventure to this river, but what makes it so great is that we can customize the experience for you. During the summer months the Gorge, as we call it, the water levels go down and the fun factor ramps up! This means that you get to enjoy sunshine & splashy rapids with lower intensity. You’ll have the opportunity to discuss your group’s needs with your guide so that they can pick lines that match with your adventure preferences.

For context, The Alberton Gorge on the Clark Fork River (near Missoula) features Class II and Class III rapids.This means:

  • Class II (Novice): These rapids have straightforward, clear channels and wide, clear passages. They might have some medium-sized waves but are generally easy to navigate with basic paddling skills. You have a raft guide which helps a lot, too!
  • Class III (Intermediate): These rapids are more challenging, with moderate, irregular waves which makes for an exciting, rollercoaster-like experience. They often have eddies and stronger currents, demanding better boat control and some experience in whitewater rafting. Eddy is the calm area by the way!

Overall, the Alberton Gorge provides an exciting but manageable rafting experience suitable for intermediate rafters and adventurous beginners with some guidance.

Alberton Gorge Trip Facts

The Alberton Gorge is known as a pool-and-drop, so you will have plenty of time between the rapids to swim and relax in the sun. In rafting, ‘pool and drop’ is a term used to describe a river characterized by a repeating pattern of calm, deep pools followed by short, steep drops or rapids. This pattern makes for a great rafting experience!

  1. Pool: The pool is a calm, slow-moving, and deep section of the river. These areas allow for a moment of rest, making them ideal for regrouping and preparing for the next set of rapids. Pools are generally safe and provide an opportunity to enjoy the scenery and revel in the excitement of the previous rapid. This is also where you can take photos and laugh with your loved ones.
  2. Drop: The drop refers to the steep, fast-moving section of the river where the water cascades down over rocks and creates rapids. Drops can vary in difficulty from mild to very challenging, depending on the gradient of the riverbed and the volume of water. Your guide will use skillful navigation on the rapids and they are often the most exciting parts of the rafting trip.

The “pool and drop” pattern can make a river both enjoyable and predictable for rafters. This type of river is commonly found in mountainous regions where the riverbed has a varied gradient, leading to alternating calm and rapid sections.

Lunch Option: On the Gorge we serve our homemade Chicken Bahn Mi sandwich on locally made Le Petite Baguettes. It’s SO tasty, even more so when you’ve been paddling in the sun! Whew, I’m hungry just thinking about this!

Trip Length: We have Alberton Gorge trips ranging from 3-6 hours depending on water flows, so we can get you back to Missoula for your next adventure and fit most folks’ timeframes! You can call us to discus the perfect trip for you.  Check out our town trips if you want something in the 1-2 hour range!

Whitewater Rafting Near Missoula

Missoula Town Floats

Floating through downtown Missoula is one of the best ways to experience it. You get a snapshot of the history, culture, and above all, experience the river that is Missoula’s lifeblood. A bit of scenery, a few splashes, and a different perspective of the town make our Missoula Town Floats a wonderful way to experience the vibrancy of Missoula!

About this time of year the ‘tube hatch’ happens, which affectionately refers to a swarm of tubers leisurely floating down the “town section” of the river. While this can be a blast, it can be congested and slow moving, especially on windy. We offer a town rafting trip to help you enjoy a leisurely and scenic float, but with paddles! Your guide can paddle the raft for you and the trip can be done in 1-2 hours. Sightseeing from the river is the best! You have time to enjoy the beauty and the river.

Scenic Rafting On The Blackfoot River

“Eventually, all things merge into one, and a river runs through it” Norman Maclean famously said in the iconic movie A River Runs Through It. Can you guess what he was talking about!? Norman is referencing the beautiful Blackfoot River and our lovely town of Missoula. This reference says it all…

Rafting the Blackfoot River in Montana offers an exhilarating blend of scenic beauty and thrilling rapids. Renowned for its clear waters and stunning landscapes, the Blackfoot River flows through rugged canyons and dense forests, providing a picturesque backdrop for any rafting adventure.

The river features a mix of Class II and Class III rapids, making it accessible for both beginners and more experienced rafters seeking a moderate challenge. Along the way, rafters can enjoy abundant wildlife sightings, including eagles, deer, and even the occasional moose. The Blackfoot River, with its historical significance and natural charm, promises a memorable and invigorating rafting experience in the heart of Montana.

We offer a couple of different scenic float options. The Blackfoot River is our most popular, and for good reason – it is simply stunningly gorgeous. We have seen everything from bears and elk to deer and eagles. The Blackfoot is rich in stunning scenery, small, fun whitewater, history, and geology. This is a great option for anyone looking to experience Montana’s incredible scenery through one of its beautiful waterways.

The Blackfoot season is shorter and based upon water flow levels. This is typically a leisurely and scenic trip. Please call us or check our booking page for the latest info on if the Blackfoot River is in season and available for trips.

The Lochsa River

Whitewater rafting near Missoula also includes an option in Idaho, which is less than two hours away from us. The Lochsa River is a truly special place. It is very rare to have the combination of big water, towering features, stunning views, and incredible food all in one place. Be prepared for the experience of a lifetime and be prepared to want to come back to visit year after year because the Lochsa will leave you wanting more every time!

This river boasts some of the best Class III and IV rapids, offering an adrenaline-pumping adventure for thrill-seekers. The Lochsa’s clear, free-flowing waters wind through a picturesque landscape of lush forests and rugged mountains, providing stunning scenery along the way. Rafters can expect challenging rapids, sharp drops, and the excitement of navigating through powerful currents. In addition to the thrilling ride, the Lochsa River experience is complemented by delicious homemade BBQ lunches, making it a favorite destination for both adventure and culinary delights. Whether you’re an experienced rafter or looking for a high-adventure introduction to whitewater, the Lochsa River promises an unforgettable journey. Join us in late May for the trip of a lifetime!

Book A Trip: Whitewater Rafting Near Missoula

There you have it, folks! There are so many whitewater rafting trips near Missoula that to enjoy! As you can see there are so many options to enjoy whitewater rafting near Missoula. You can visit this page to book an adventure: https://www.zootownsurfers.com or call us for personalized trip planning assistance. We look forward to rafting with you! Let’s make memories that last a lifetime.

15 Reasons to Try Missoula Rafting

15 Reasons to Try Missoula Rafting

Introduction to Missoula Rafting

It wasn’t until very recently that Missoula, Montana became a true destination town for visitors from across the globe. As river rafting guides, we seemed to always ask the question “where are you going to next?” A large percentage of our guests are now choosing to spend their whole Montana vacation here in Missoula. With easy access to some of the best rivers, trails and breweries in the nation, it makes total sense why. 

The Thrill of the Rapids

The Clark Fork River, which runs right through downtown Missoula is a major draw for visitors during the hot summer months. Taking a scenic or whitewater rafting trip is a great way to disconnect and spend some stress-free time with your family and friends. Adventure, relaxation, delicious food… A rafting trip has it all!

15 Reasons to Try Missoula Rafting

  1. Diverse Adventures: There is a wide selection of rivers and rafting adventures available in the Missoula Valley, where the Blackfoot, Clark Fork, and Bitterroot Rivers come together. Whether you’re seeking calm waters or thrilling rapids, you’ll find a trip that suits your style.
  2. Family-Friendly Fun: The rapids are designed to be fun and splashy, perfect for families of all ages and skill levels. Even if someone in your group is new to rafting, there’s plenty of excitement to go around.
  3. Playful Excuses: And if any family member starts acting up, you might just find a playful excuse to let the river take over—figuratively speaking, of course!
  4. Epic Photo Ops: Your experienced guides are not only there to ensure your safety, but they also know how to capture those epic, social media-ready moments. Expect plenty of photos that will get a thumbs-up from your friends and family.
  5. New Friendships: Rafting in Missoula offers a great opportunity to meet interesting and friendly people from all over. You might even end up making plans for dinner with new friends along the way.
  6. Emotional Rollercoaster: Prepare to experience a mix of emotions as you laugh, scream, and maybe even shed a tear during the exhilarating ride through exciting rapids.
  7. Effortless Adventure: One of the best parts is that your guides handle all of the hard work. All you need to do is show up and enjoy the adventure.
  8. Extra Thrills: If you’re in the mood for a little extra excitement, try cliff jumping or take a refreshing swim in the rapids—it’s a fun and adventurous way to cool off.
  9. Fascinating Guides: The river guides are some of the most interesting people you’ll ever meet. Their local knowledge, insider tips, and captivating stories add an extra layer of excitement to your adventure.
  10. Scenic Meals: Enjoy a delicious riverside lunch with a scenic view that makes the meal even more memorable.
  11. Unique Perspective: Experience the local area from a completely different angle—sitting in a raft on the water offers views you simply can’t get from land.
  12. Local Expertise: Since your guides are local experts, they can offer insider tips on the best places to eat and drink in Missoula, making your trip even more rewarding.
  13. Budget-Friendly: Rafting is also a relatively affordable adventure compared to many other high-adrenaline activities, so you can enjoy the thrill without breaking the bank.
  14. Digital Detox: This is a fantastic way to disconnect from screens and the everyday hustle, giving you a chance to really immerse yourself in nature.
  15. Unpredictable Excitement: And finally, if you’re up for a whitewater rafting trip, remember that the beauty of the experience lies in its unpredictability—every ride is a unique adventure with its own surprises!

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2019 Rafting Season Highlights: Celebrating a Summer of Adventure

2019 Rafting Season Highlights: Celebrating a Summer of Adventure

Recap of the 2019 Rafting Season

The season is almost over for us river guides here in Western Montana. With winter coming, many of us have already shifted into off-season mode. It was a fantastic summer, and I’m so grateful to work with amazing people while calling the river my office.

I couldn’t be happier with what we achieved together on and off the river. Of course, we’ve got a few things to work on during the off-season.

Behind the Scenes with Expert Guides

Here at Zoo Town Surfers, we bring a lot of energy every day and treat each trip as if it were our first. Our guests deserve that level of enthusiasm. Still, there’s a reason the season ends—everyone needs a break from the daily routine of being a river guide.

Transitioning into the off-season can be tough. I love the busy days, the challenging logistics, and even the chaos of running a river business. But sometimes (maybe one or two days each season), I find myself wondering, “Why on earth am I doing this?” I end up sitting next to a broken-down vehicle or trailer, reflecting on it all.

I go from barely sleeping to wondering what I’ll do next. It takes a little time to adjust to fall work and other jobs.

The season always seems to end so quickly and informally. I always hope for one more chance to get everyone together for one last hurrah, but then it’s over.

Memorable Moments and Lessons Learned

Here are some of the highlights from the 2019 season:

  • Surf lessons: Last season we worked out the kinks, and this year we really went for it. Kevin and Liam did an amazing job teaching, and we’re excited to bring even more opportunities next season.
  • First-year guides: It’s not easy being new, but you have to start somewhere! Our first-year guides—Sorrel, Clara, Mitch, Brit, Max, and Liam—did a fantastic job. I couldn’t be prouder of their progress.
  • International guides: We’re always looking to add more diversity to our team. Tommy came over from Chile and brought incredible professionalism and skills.
  • Record numbers: This summer was a big one for us. We’re growing each season, and more people are choosing Missoula as their destination. We want to offer more opportunities for everyone who loves the area.
  • Perfect safety record: We kept a sharp focus on safety while still having loads of fun. No one got hurt—neither our team nor our guests.

These are just some of the highlights from 2019. We’re going to work hard during the off-season to keep improving and making our customer experience even better.

Thank you to all our wonderful guests, staff, family, and friends for supporting Zoo Town Surfers. It means the world to us!

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5 Unforgettable Missoula River Activities for Your Visit

5 Unforgettable Missoula River Activities for Your Visit

Discovering the Magic of the Missoula River

When you first arrive in Missoula, you quickly notice how the local culture is deeply rooted in the river. Here in Western Montana, three major rivers—the Blackfoot, Bitterroot, and Clark Fork—converge in the Missoula Valley, each offering its own unique opportunities for recreation and fishing.

Whether you’re looking to cool off on a hot day or enjoy a day full of adventure, the Missoula River is your go-to spot. This guide will walk you through five must-try activities on and around the river, share first-hand experiences, and give you all the tips you need to have a memorable day on the water.

Go Tubing!

When summer arrives in Missoula, locals and visitors alike head to the river for a relaxing float. Tubing on the lower Blackfoot River or the in-town section of the Clark Fork River is a fun way to beat the heat.

What You Need to Know:

  • You can rent or buy a tube from dozens of local downtown businesses.
  • Grab a six-pack of beer and a mesh bag for your empty cans.

The Tubing Experience:

  • Prepare to get wet, especially if you float through Brennan’s Wave—a fun and refreshing challenge!
  • The most popular tubing section runs from East Missoula (Sha Ron access) to downtown Missoula, covering about four miles of river.

Go Whitewater Rafting!

The Clark Fork River, flowing right through the heart of Missoula, offers a range of rafting adventures—from scenic tours to whitewater excitement. Since the removal of Milltown Dam in 2008, it’s now possible to float through the confluence of the Blackfoot and Clark Fork Rivers, right into downtown.

Planning Your Rafting Adventure:

  • In early spring, the Lochsa River (just over Lolo Pass) is known for its world-class whitewater. Its season is short—only from the end of April through May—so plan your trip carefully.
  • The Alberton Gorge on the Clark Fork River, only 35 minutes west of Missoula, provides fantastic whitewater experiences year-round.

For Every Skill Level:

  • The iconic Blackfoot River, located just east of Missoula, has several sections suitable for all levels of ability, ensuring that both beginners and experienced rafters can enjoy the thrill.

Go Kayaking!

Whitewater kayaking is an excellent way to experience the river up close. Missoula offers options for every skill level, making kayaking accessible whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to improve your technique.

Getting Started with Kayaking:

  • Most beginners start on flat water before progressing to slow-moving sections. It’s important to learn skills like the Eskimo roll for safety in whitewater.
  • If you’re not ready for whitewater, consider renting a recreational or inflatable kayak, which require less technical skill and still let you enjoy the water.

Tips and Recommendations:

  • Contact a local outfitter or shop for a beginner’s whitewater kayak lesson—they know the best spots and safety tips.
  • Remember, kayaking is often called an “underwater” sport, so be prepared to get wet while you paddle and explore.

Go Surfing! Riding the Waves on the Clark Fork

River surfing has taken Missoula by storm, and it’s not just for the pros—people of all ages and abilities are catching on to the fun of surfing Brennan’s Wave on the Clark Fork River.

Learning the Basics:

  • Before you hit the water, it’s important to understand water levels, hazards, and river etiquette.
  • Local shops offer rentals, lessons, and general information to help you get started.

The Surfing Experience:

  • Once you find that perfect standing wave, you’ll quickly feel the pulse of the river and the excitement of the ride.
  • Just a heads-up: you really need to enjoy swimming, as you’ll be getting wet!

Go Stand Up Paddle Boarding! A Fun Alternative on Calm Waters

If you’re looking for a different way to experience the water, stand up paddle boarding (SUP) is a great option. With many beautiful lakes just north of Missoula—like Seeley Lake or Frenchtown Pond—SUPing offers a relaxing yet engaging way to enjoy the outdoors.

Getting Started with SUP:

  • Local shops provide quick lessons on proper stance, how to hold your paddle, and other important tips before you set out.
  • Make sure you have all the necessary gear: a personal flotation device (PFD), paddle, water, proper footwear like river shoes, and sun protection.

Practical Tips:

  • Always check the river conditions and ensure you have planned a shuttle if needed, especially when paddling in areas with currents.
  • Keep in mind that paddling in windy conditions can be challenging, so plan your time on the water accordingly.

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