What is the best rafting near Missoula, Montana?

The best rafting near Missoula is on the Alberton Gorge, a Class II-III canyon on the Clark Fork River about 30 minutes west of town. Zoo Town Surfers offers half-day and full-day guided trips. The Blackfoot River and Bitterroot River are also excellent options.

Do I need experience to go rafting in Montana?

No experience is needed for most trips. Professional guides handle all technical work and provide all equipment including wetsuits, life jackets, and helmets.

What is river surfing in Missoula?

River surfing is standing wave surfing on the Clark Fork River in downtown Missoula. Zoo Town Surfers provides boards, wetsuits, and expert instruction. No prior surfing experience required.

When is the best time to go rafting in Montana?

The rafting season runs from late May through September. June offers the highest water and most exciting whitewater. July and August are warmer with moderate flows, perfect for families. September offers fall colors and smaller crowds.

What rivers can I raft near Missoula?

Near Missoula you can raft: Alberton Gorge (Class II-III, 30 min west), Clark Fork River (Class I-II, through town), Blackfoot River (Class I-II, 30 min east), Bitterroot River (Class I-II, south), and Lochsa River (Class III-IV+, experts only, 2.5 hours west).

Riverside Lunch

A full day on the legendary Blackfoot with a riverside lunch in the wilderness.

Book This Trip

Riverside Lunch

A full day on the legendary Blackfoot with a riverside lunch in the wilderness.

Book This Trip

Duration4-6 Hours

Skill LevelClass II-III

Price$85

SeasonMay – September

LocationBlackfoot River

Current Flow2,030 CFS

Overview

The Blackfoot Riverside Lunch is the full Big Blackfoot experience: extended river miles, all of the day's rapids, prime wildlife stretches, and a riverside meal on a quiet bank in the middle of the trip. You'll see the Blackfoot Valley the way it deserves to be seen — slowly, with time to swim, time to talk, and time to actually take in the landscape that supports grizzly, elk, moose, osprey, eagle, and one of Montana's best blue-ribbon trout fisheries. Lunch is served off the boat: hot mains, fresh sides, dessert, and cold drinks under cottonwoods. Afterward we keep floating to take-out at a relaxed pace. Best for full-day adventurers, families wanting more than a quick half-day, and visitors with one shot to experience the river A River Runs Through It made famous.

Trip Highlights

Extended float through the best Blackfoot sections
Riverside lunch in the wilderness
Crystal clear water with emerald pools and mossy cliffs
Made famous by A River Runs Through It
Blue ribbon trout stream and incredible wildlife habitat
Historic Lewis & Clark and Nez Perce route
Float two rivers in one day since the Milltown Dam removal

What to Expect

Check-in & Gear Up

Meet at Zoo Town Surfers Headquarters for gear and orientation.

Upper Float

Launch into crystal clear water, floating through emerald pools and ponderosa pine forest.

Riverside Lunch

Pull over for a satisfying lunch along the banks of the legendary Blackfoot.

Lower Float & Rapids

Continue downstream through scenic Class I-II rapids with wildlife viewing.

Takeout & Shuttle

Pull out and shuttle back to headquarters.

Who It's For

All ages welcome. No experience needed. Perfect for families, scenic float enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone who wants the full Blackfoot River experience.

What's Included

✓ PFD (personal flotation device)
✓ Raft & paddles
✓ Professional guide
✓ Shuttle
✓ Full riverside lunch

What to Bring

• Sturdy footwear (Chacos, Keen-style sandals, or old tennis shoes — no flip-flops!)
• Swimsuit
• Quick-drying or breathable clothing (no cotton!)
• Dry clothes for after
• Reusable water bottle
• Sunscreen
• Extra cash for tip and merchandise

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Blackfoot?

Class I-II — gentle rapids perfect for beginners and families. In early spring the river can bump up to Class III with splashier whitewater.

What's included in the riverside lunch?

A full, satisfying meal served riverside in the wilderness.

Is this good for kids?

Absolutely! The Blackfoot is one of our most family-friendly rivers. All ages welcome.

Can you really float two rivers in one day?

Yes! Since the Milltown Dam was removed in 2008, the Clark Fork and Blackfoot flow freely together, making it possible to float both in one trip.

Do you offer group discounts?

Yes! 10% discount for groups of 12 or more. We also offer 10% for Veterans and Active-Duty Service Members.

Ready to Go?

Secure your spot on the next riverside lunch trip.

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