The Middle Fork of the Flathead is one of the unknown gems of whitewater rafting; Montana whitewater rafting at its best. Only one other outfitter is allowed to run this wilderness section of the river, and because the only access is by plane or trail, the Middle Fork is a place where you can still enjoy a true wilderness experience.

Our 5-day Montana white water rafting trip begins with a breathtaking flight into Schafer Meadows, a backcountry airstrip nestled in the middle of the Great Bear Wilderness. We'll put the boats in the water here and enjoy several miles of scenic floating before we enter the first rapid series, Three Forks.

The Middle Fork has an average gradient of about 35ft/mile, which means we get lots of great class III and IV rapids. We'll have oar boats and paddle boats along so you can choose your excitement level.  (Inflatable kayaks available only for certain water levels.)

We plan plenty of time for hiking, fishing, viewing wildlife or just watching the river go by, so the trip has an easy pace and relaxed feel.  Rappelling is a highlight of the trip for many folks and fisherman won't want to miss Castle Lake. This mountain lake is only a 1 1/2 miles from the river and the cutthroat trout are fat, fight well, and can be over 20" in length!

Your guides will carry a small reference library.  Following are some suggested books for winter reading.

• Wild River Pioneers by John Farley

• Montana Native Plants & Early People by Jeff Hart

Sample Itinerary and Logistical Information for the Middle Fork of the Flathead

Suggested Gear List for the Middle Fork of the Flathead

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