Packrafting
Combine backcountry hiking with river paddling for the ultimate Montana adventure. Hike in, float out.
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Private Lesson
Level: All Levels
Includes: Equipment care, inflation, self-rescue, paddle technique
Pricing: Starting at $300
Half Day Guided
Tarkio Gorge
Level: Beginner-friendly
Includes: Guide, all equipment, shuttle
Pricing: Starting at $80
2 Day “Learn To” Course
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Includes: Paddling technique, safety, and expedition skills for backcountry packrafting
Pricing: Starting at $375
Minimum Age
Varies by trip — call to confirm
Adventure Level
- Beginner to Advanced
Overview
Zoo Town Surfers is Montana’s premier river adventure company, based in Missoula. Our packrafting trips combine hiking and paddling through scenic waterways — the boats are light, pack down small, and are surprisingly stable and fun to paddle.
Whether you’re taking a private lesson to learn the basics, joining our most popular half-day trip through Tarkio Gorge, or heading out on a multi-day backcountry expedition, our ACA-certified guides will get you comfortable on the water quickly.
Quick Facts
- We offer 3 packrafting experiences (Private Lesson, Tarkio Gorge, 2 Day "Learn To" Course)
- Packrafts are lightweight and pack down small enough to carry on a hike
- No experience necessary for the Private Lesson or Tarkio Gorge trips
- The 2-day "Learn To" course covers paddling technique, safety, and expedition skills for backcountry packrafting
- All equipment is provided
- Trips are led by ACA-certified instructors
- Location and difficulty depend on the specific trip booked
What You Bring
- Sturdy footwear (anything but flip-flops!)
- Quick-drying or breathable clothing (no cotton!)
- Swimsuit
- Sunscreen
- Dry clothes
- Reusable water bottle
What We Provide
- Packraft
- Paddle
- PFD (personal flotation device)
- Helmet
- Dry bag
- Guide
- Shuttle
Photo Gallery
