Glacier National Park is an adventurer’s playground, packed with stunning scenery and a huge variety of outdoor activities. Two of the most popular ways to experience this incredible landscape are on horseback and by raft.
You can even combine a morning horseback ride with an afternoon rafting trip for a truly unforgettable day.
This guide will help you plan your own horseback ride in Glacier National Park, plus give you some tips for enjoying the park from the water.
Choosing Your Horseback Riding Experience
Glacier National Park and the surrounding area offer a variety of horseback riding experiences. Here’s what to consider as you plan your trip.
Corral Locations and Options
Several corrals operate inside and just outside Glacier National Park, including:
- Apgar Corral
- Lake McDonald Corral
- Many Glacier Corral
- West Glacier Corral
Trail rides can range from an hour or two to a full day in the saddle. Some rides are designed for families and children.
What to Consider Before Booking
Before you book your horseback riding adventure, keep these points in mind:
- Rider experience level and comfort: Be honest about your riding experience.
- Age and weight requirements: Most outfitters have a minimum age of 7 years and a weight limit of 225 pounds or less.
- Read reviews: Find out what other riders have to say about the experience. Double-check that the guides are well-qualified and the horses are well-cared-for.
Rafting the Middle Fork Flathead River
If you’d rather be on the water than beside it, consider a rafting trip on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River, which forms the park’s southwestern boundary.
You can choose a scenic float or a whitewater adventure, depending on your risk tolerance. Scenic floats are generally very mild, appropriate for all ages. Whitewater adventures are more intense, with some serious rapids, and are generally suitable for people ages 5 and up.
The length of the rafting trip depends on the time of year. In June and early July, when the river is running high with snowmelt, the trip takes about 2.5 hours. From mid-July to early August, the trip is closer to 3 hours. From mid-August until the end of the season, the trip lasts around 3.5 hours.
Can you combine horseback riding and rafting in a single day?
You sure can, but you’ll want to plan carefully to make sure it all works out.
Logistical considerations
You can’t horseback ride and raft from every location in the park. Some of the corrals are pretty far from the rafting outfitters, so you’ll need to factor in travel time from place to place.
It’s a good idea to book your horseback ride first, then find a rafting trip that fits into your schedule.
Suggested itineraries
Here’s one way you could combine the two activities:
- 10:00 a.m.: 1-hour horseback ride to Apgar Meadows
- 3:15 p.m.: whitewater rafting trip
Keep in mind that activities take place rain or shine, so you’ll want to be prepared for any kind of weather.
Essential packing list
What to wear for a combined horseback riding and rafting adventure? Here are a few suggestions:
- Layers
- Long pants for riding
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Water shoes or sandals
- Waterproof bag for electronics
Be sure to check with your tour operators for their specific packing lists.
What to Expect: Reviews and Experiences
Most people who book horseback riding tours in Glacier National Park come away happy. They say they enjoyed the experience, found the guides friendly and helpful, and appreciated the calm horses and beautiful scenery. Many also learn something about the park’s history and ecology along the way.
However, some people report negative experiences. Some complain about the horses’ treatment, unprofessional guides, or poor trail conditions. These reports are rare, but they do happen.
That’s why choosing a reputable tour operator is essential. Look for companies with experienced guides, well-cared-for horses, and positive reviews.
In Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like seeing Glacier National Park from the back of a horse and the seat of a raft. These two adventures offer unique perspectives on the park’s majestic mountains, pristine forests, and crystal-clear waters.
If you’re planning a trip, make sure to book your horseback riding and rafting tours well in advance. And remember to prioritize safety and responsible tourism to help preserve this natural wonder for future generations.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your own unforgettable adventure in Glacier National Park today!