From whitewater thrills to peaceful float trips, Flathead Raft Company in Polson offers a variety of river adventures set against Montana’s stunning natural backdrop. Here’s what makes these trips a top choice on Flathead Lake’s tributaries.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in moderate physical shape, able to paddle or swim if needed and comfortable sitting on a raft for several hours.
Wildlife
History
The area around Polson has long been inhabited by the Salish and Kootenai tribes, with rivers serving as vital travel and fishing routes.
Conservation
Flathead Raft Company promotes sustainable river use by limiting group sizes and encouraging responsible wildlife observation and waste management.
Flathead Raft Company
From whitewater thrills to peaceful float trips, Flathead Raft Company in Polson offers a variety of river adventures set against Montana’s stunning natural backdrop. Here’s what makes these trips a top choice on Flathead Lake’s tributaries.
Flathead Raft Company is a river outfitter based in Polson, Montana, operating guided trips on the Lower Flathead River and surrounding Native Waters. The company offers a range of experiences designed for different interests and abilities, including adaptive fishing and flatwater floats, half-day whitewater rafting, a whitewater rowing school, and inflatable kayaking and river boarding trips. Guides provide hands-on instruction, safety coaching, and active river navigation on paddle rafts, oar rafts, and inflatable kayaks. The Adaptive Fishing/Flatwater Adventures trip provides accessible fishing and scenic floats for guests with disabilities, targeting Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, Pike, and Bass in protected waters. The 1/2 Day Whitewater Trip traverses approximately eight miles of Class II and III rapids with options for interactive paddle rafts or guided oar rafts and includes recovery sections. The Whitewater Rowing School spans two to three days and focuses on hybrid rafting skills, river safety, and technique development for beginners and advancing paddlers. Inflatable Kayaking & River Boarding trips include an eight-mile stretch with four Class III rapids and opportunities to swim and play under guide supervision. Flathead Raft Company emphasizes safety, experiential instruction, and accessible access to the river environment.
Guides provide safety gear, life jackets, and step-by-step instruction for every tour. Booking details and trip descriptions are available through The Adventure Collective reservation links and the Flathead Raft Company booking channels in Polson, Montana.
Location
Polson, MT
Gateway to Lower Flathead River
Native Waters
Protected Waters
Pristine, protected river environment
Guided Trips
Trained Guides
Hands-on instruction and safety coaching
Trip Types
4 Experiences
Whitewater, fishing, school, and kayaking
Check availability for whitewater rafting, adaptive fishing, inflatable kayaking, or the whitewater rowing school—book trips departing from Polson, Montana.
Wear quick-drying clothing
Water temperatures stay cool, so dress in layers that dry quickly and protect from wind.
Bring a dry bag
Keep your phone, snacks, and extra clothes dry during both whitewater and scenic floats.
Arrive early for orientation
Arriving 30 minutes prior to departure lets you get outfitted and meet your guide without rush.
Sun protection is key
Montana sun can be strong on the water—bring sunscreen, hats, and polarized sunglasses.
Water shoes
Protect feet on rocky banks and slippery river bottoms.
summer
Quick-dry layers
Stay warm and dry even if you get splashed or take a swim.
spring|summer|fall
Sunscreen
Prevent sunburn during long hours on open water.
summer|fall
Reusable water bottle
Hydration is vital, especially on warm days spent outdoors.