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Alberton Gorge on the Clark Fork River Montana

LowerSalmoncampatsunset.jpg The Alberton Gorge of the Clark Fork River is the whitewater portion of the river with 11 miles filled with 13 major rapids such as Tumbleweed, Boat Eater, and our personal favorite, Fang. No matter when you run the “Gorge” during the season, you will get wet!

In May and June the “Gorge” develops several class IV rapids with huge waves and powerful hydraulics. We start running the “Gorge” when the water level is 16000 cfs. We may restrict guests at higher water levels to ages 16 and up due to safety.

In July when the volume is lower the river becomes a playground for swimming, rapid surfing, and enjoying the sun and scenery. Each trip is filled with local information, facts, history and folklore. We often sight our pair of eagles close to their nest and watch as the chicks grow and learn to fly. The osprey are always fishing and the mergansers do their funny run across the top of the water. Every day brings a new river and a new adventure with its own surprises. On one trip a gopher was sighted swimming a wide section of the river. (He made it across.) Another time, we followed a moose through Tumbleweed. (She calmly left us just before the next rapid and climbed to the top of the gorge!)

On full day trips we have several options for fun. We may stop at a sandy beach for one of our signature three course lunches and set up the water slide when weather permits. Next is Fish Creek to jump into nature’s perfect swimming hole with icy, crystal blue water. There is a very small 1-2 foot drop which creates a small water funnel. If you jump into just the right spot and find the funnel, you will swoop down the river about 15 yards. Great fun.

Alberton Gorge and Clark Fork River Rafting

Half Day Full Day Dinner Float Birding Trip
Adults $59 $85 $98 $69
Under 14 $55 $80 $98 $65
Groups 10 - 18 $55 $80 Call $65
Minimum Age: 6
Minimum of Five People to Book

Family Rafting

Montana History

Your trip will include the history of this magnificent river mixed generously with great tall tales based on the artifacts along the river. The Clark Fork River was named for Captain Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expeditions. While no one from the expeditions actually explored this portion of the river the history of the old west starts here and continues as the river becomes involved as a major player in the development of settling the west.

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Come learn about the very rare geological wonders of Glacial Lake Missoula. Before the Clark Fork River the great Montana Glaciers existed. What part did they play in developing some much of the geological history of the entire west. Come see parts of the old floor of the famous lake and the very rare rocks of the purple canyon walls.

We have so much to share and so much fun to create. Please bring your family and friends and join our family on the river.

Clark Fork Scenic Trip

A nine mile run with three small easy rapids. This is just enough thrills for those who are too young or not interested in getting wet. It is also the perfect length to keep the smaller children occupied while the thrill seekers run the “Gorge.” This trip can be run in succession with the “Gorge” and is a perfect alternative for large groups who have several needs to be met. The scenery is magnificent and wildlife viewing and birding is abundant.

On a full day trip we will stop at a sandy beach for our special three course lunch. There are several interesting areas for the younger children to play at, and of course river swimming is always available.

Alberton Gorge and Clark Fork River Scenic Rafting

Half Day Full Day Dinner Float Birding Trip Missoula Float
Adults $59 $85 $98 $69 $35
Under 14 $55 $80 $98 $65 $35
Groups 10 - 18 $55 $80 Call $65 Call
Minimum Age: 6
Minimum of Five People to Book

    What to Wear

  • Check www.cascade.com for more information
  • The Montana temperatures always add an element of surprise to the adventure. It can snow in August and May can be hot. On the river always prepare for the worst then peel the layers that are not wanted.
  • Synthetics, poly blends, fleece for cooler days, swim wear for hot days.
  • Please wear shoes that can get wet.
  • NO jeans and NO all cotton clothing.

    We provide at not extra cost:

  • Splash gear on cloudy rainy days.
  • Wet suits on cold days.