This web site is devoted to providing a broad-based information resource for the education, entertainment, and active living enjoyment of Northwest Montana.
Assisting the outdoor adventurer in Locating the very best in Northwest Montana
This web site is your online source for some of Northwest Montana's best Vacation Gift Ideas, and treats for the adventurer .
Montana lakes and reservoirs are
popular destination areas for boating,
fishing, camping, swimming, windsurfing,
water-skiing and wildlife viewing.
Although services and recreation opportunities vary many Montana lakes and reservoirs offer camp sites, RV sites, restaurants, bars, all marina services, fishing supplies, boat launches, windsurfing, fishing boats, snack bars, party barges, sail boats, canoes, paddle boats and boat rentals.
Check river conditions before heading out.
If an area is experiencing a particularly wet period or recovering from a snowy winter, stream flow may be very high. The higher the water the faster it will be moving and the bigger the challenge. If you are not comfortable or if local officials do not recommend going on the river, follow your gut. Your life isn't worth a security deposit.
Don't go outside of your ability. Renting a raft and going down a river yourself can be very tempting but it's not for everyone. Even flat water can kill someone and moving water is very complex. If you aren't skilled in identifying routes or technique things can go bad in hurry. Major disasters almost never happen due to one catastrophic event but through a series of small errors. If you want to take the adventure but don't have the skill, strongly consider going with a professional guide.
Most tour operators will be very happy to answer your questions and provide you with almost any information you request. Ultimately they are in the business to serve you and offer up an experience of a lifetime. When dealing with a river rafting outfitter think of your tour operator as a hospital where you plan to have major surgery and your guide as the surgeon. Understand the risks that you are taking and if your river rafting tour includes going on a Class V or Class VI river realize that you are putting your life into the hands of your guide.
The most important thing is to trust your own instincts. If things just don't feel right or if conditions look too dangerous don't get on the boat. Don't discount the power of moving water. It carves out canyons, moves mountains, destroys and creates land, and if you are in the wrong place at the wrong time, it can kill.
Boating Marinas