Half Day
Crystal clear water, emerald pools, and the river made famous by A River Runs Through It.
RequestHalf Day
Crystal clear water, emerald pools, and the river made famous by A River Runs Through It.
RequestOverview
The Big Blackfoot River flows southwest from the Continental Divide and into the Clark Fork River, just five miles east of Missoula. The Blackfoot offers over 70 miles of crystal clear water, emerald pools, mossy cliffs, a ponderosa pine forest, and amazing vistas. In early spring, the Big Blackfoot is a fun Class III river with splashy whitewater. Mid to late summer, the Blackfoot is ideal for a scenic float trip with a few small rapids in between calm sections. Made famous by Norman Maclean's book A River Runs Through It, the Blackfoot Valley provides critical habitat for grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, moose, elk, osprey, bald eagles, and pileated woodpeckers. It's also a blue ribbon trout stream home to bull and cutthroat trout, as well as rainbow and brown trout.
Trip Highlights
- Crystal clear water with emerald pools and mossy cliffs
- Made famous by A River Runs Through It
- Blue ribbon trout stream — bull, cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout
- Wildlife habitat: grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, moose, elk, osprey, bald eagles
- Historic Lewis & Clark route — the Nez Perce called it Cokahalishkit, river of the road to the buffalo
- Perfect intro to whitewater for families
What to Expect
Check-in & Gear Up
Meet at Zoo Town Surfers Headquarters for gear and orientation.
Launch
Float into crystal clear water with emerald pools and ponderosa pine forest lining the banks.
Scenic Rapids
Paddle through fun Class I-II rapids with stunning canyon vistas and wildlife viewing opportunities.
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, and anyone who wants to experience the legendary Blackfoot River.
What's Included
- ✓ PFD (personal flotation device)
- ✓ Raft & paddles
- ✓ Professional guide
- ✓ Shuttle
- ✓ Snacks & water
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