April 9, 2007

Middle Fork Flathead (Lower); Montana (III)


4 comments:

Brian said...

This is the Middle Fork Flathead River in northern Montana. This river (and U.S. Highway 2 that parallels it) forms the southern boundary of Glacier National Park and contains some of the most pristine water in the country. The Middle Fork comes straight out of the Bob Marshall Wilderness, which when combined with other adjacent wilderness areas forms the second-largest roadless/wilderness area in the lower 48 states (second only to the Frank Church wilderness complex in Idaho).

This run is a great little stretch with some quality Class III whitewater and unbelievable scenery. At high water, there is one Class IV drop (Jaws). This run is an essential addition to any Glacier trip and is very popular in the summertime among the West Glacier rafting community. This run can easily be combined with other runs in the area for a great weekend (the Flathead drainage is truly one of the most pristine watersheds around).

Brian said...

Middle Fork Flathead Logistics: Class III. Located just east of the town of West Glacier on U.S. Highway 2. Put-in is Moccasin Creek access, although kayakers may want to make a condensed run by putting in at Kootenai Creek. Takeout anywhere you want in the West Glacier area. This one is usually easy to thumb a ride if needed.

Unknown said...

Does anyone have information on the wilderness section of the Middle Fork of the Flathead? From Schaeffer's meadows on down to the highway? I'd like to know the difficulty and the access points. Thanks!

Anonymous said...

Hey Ross; check out the upper Middle Fork Flathead blog up near the top of the homepage. The wilderness stretch is an awesome experience and i can't recommend it enough. Good luck!
Brian