The Dalles section is a slalom paddlers' dream and a great technical training ground.
Put-in / access: Schafer Meadows Airstrip (48.0772, -113.2483) or Bear Creek Access (48.2619, -113.5786)
Take-out: West Glacier (48.4975, -113.9819)
Difficulty: Class III-IV
Mileage: Varies depending on put-in. Bear Creek to West Glacier is approximately 25 miles.
Season: June through August.
Hazards: Continuous Class III-IV water through the Great Bear Wilderness. Spruce Park rapid is a notable hazard. Logjams are common and frequently shift.
Permits: None required for the river, but backcountry permits needed for camping in the wilderness area.
Guided trips: Yes. Glacier Raft Company and others operate out of West Glacier.
Camping: Wilderness camping along the upper stretches. Developed camping near West Glacier.
Visitor Access
- Nearest town: Missoula
- Difficulty: Class II-III
- Season: April-June (optimal during spring runoff, with June being prime)
- Mileage: 52.5 miles
- Permits & fees: Open use for the public, but outfitted use is restricted. Camping fees apply (around $6/night) from May-September.
- Hazards: Wood is a significant hazard, so stay alert. Spring runoff (May-June) can create powerful hydraulics and waves. Paddlers should be aware of anglers and unusual fishing regulations.
- Guided trips: Yes - Adventure Missoula offers guided trips (typically mid-April through June).
- Camping: Camping fees average around $6 per night from May through September. There are 12 fee facilities in the canyon, reservations can be made via recreation.gov. Dispersed and group camping locations can be checked with Lolo National Forest. Confirm current flows, closures, AIS inspections, and land-manager rules before you put in. Cold water and wood hazards kill—this guide is informational, not instruction.