Boating and Rafting

Glacier has many stunning lakes and rivers, and boating is a popular park activity. Many rafting companies provide adventures along the border of the park on the Middle and North Forks of the Flathead River. The Middle Fork has some excellent white water, while the North Fork has both slow- and fast-moving sections. If you bring your own raft or kayak—watercraft such as Sea-Doos or Jet Skis are not allowed in the park—stop at the Hungry Horse Ranger Station in the Flathead National Forest near West Glacier to obtain a permit. Consider starting at Ousel Creek and floating to West Glacier on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River.

Tours and Outfitters

Glacier Park Boat Company. This company conducts 45- to 90-minute tours of five lakes. A Lake McDonald cruise takes you from the dock at Lake McDonald Lodge to the middle of the lake for an unparalleled view of the Continental Divide's Garden Wall. The Many Glacier tours on Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine depart from Many Glacier Hotel and provide views of the Continental Divide. Two Medicine Lake cruises leave from the dock near the ranger station and lead to several trails. St. Mary Lake cruises leave from the launch near the Rising Sun Campground and head to Red Eagle Mountain and other spots. You can also rent small watercraft at Apgar, Lake McDonald, Two Medicine, and Many Glacier. 406/257–2426; www.glacierparkboats.com. Tours from $22.25, rentals from $15 . May–Sept..