Flathead, Middle Fork

This access is located on Moccasin Creek and is the most popular launch point on the river as it is the closest launch to the major whitewater. You will encounter a high volume of outfitters utilizing this site. You float down the creek a short distance before it joins the Middle Fork making it a good put-in option but not a practical option as a take-out for those floating down from upstream. It is just over 3 miles on the Middle Fork to the start of the signficant whitewater at Tunnel.

This first signficant rapid is named for the nearby railroad tunnel on river left. The current accelerates into a series of waves and small holes that set the tone for the run. It’s a good warm-up, with clear lines and fun wave action.

Bonecrusher begins where the river bends back around to the left. The rapid is formed by boulders and paddlers can expect a hole at the bottom. At higher flows the rapid feartures large waves and a few strong holes. The main current pushes hard into the center, but there are straightforward lines with attentive boat placement. At medium flows it’s big and fun, but it packs more punch at high water.

Washboard is a long series of continuous wave trains. Expect bouncy, splashy fun with few technical moves required in this read and run rapid.

At Big Squeeze the river passes between bedrock outcrops that narrow the river creating pushy water and large diagonal waves. The feature demands precise boat control to stay clear of surging laterals. It is short but powerful, and gets especially challenging at higher flows.

The current flows over a ledge down the left and then current accelerates to the right into a strong wave train and lateral features that live up to the name. The rapid is energetic and fast, with boaters needing to stay centered and ready to punch through waves. It’s one of the more exciting rides on the run.

Jaws is a standout rapid, with large breaking waves and a dynamic main hole that can pack a bite. Lines vary with flow, but the rapid often provides strong surf potential. It’s thrilling yet manageable for intermediates who stay on line. At lower flows the rapid is not in and boaters will hardly notice the easy class II features where this rapid forms.

True to its name, Pinball features scattered boulders and bedrock walls that create pushy currents. At most flows it’s playful but requires attentive maneuvering and at lower flows it is an easy class II.

With a gravel bar on the left and a rock wall on the right, Repeater serves up a string of similar-sized waves and holes, coming one after another. The rapid delivers consistent action over its length.

Named for the “Coal Bank Turnout” along Highway 2, CBT offers a mix of waves and diagonals that feel bigger than they look from shore. The rapid can be surprisingly pushy, especially at medium to high flows. Quick reactions and maintaining momentum are key.

This rapid funnels through a narrow slot, creating a strong constriction in the current. Depending on flows, the Notch can be pushy with powerful waves and turbulent eddies. It’s one of the more technical features of the run and a highlight of the section.

The final named rapid, Pumphouse, offers a boisterous finish with big waves and swift current. It’s a straightforward but splashy ride before the river eases toward West Glacier. A fitting capstone to a run full of character. Many groups stop near this rapid to enjoy lunch during the warm summer months.

The Belton Bridge as the original access into Glacier National Park until the 1964 washed away much of the bridge just leaving the arch. Today the bridge is open to foot, bicycle, and horse traffic and is a popular day use site where people access the river for water play. It is possible to exit the river here for those with hand-carry craft but it is not a practical take-out for rafts or larger craft.

This is the primary take-out access off River Bend Drive in West Glacier on river left. Private property adjoins this area so please respect the neighbors. The site see heavy use by outfitters with buses and large trailers of boats coming and going throughout the day.