Learn to kayak on the Flathead River: we’re making kayaking fun, safe, & accessible for all experience levels
Whether you’re dipping your toes into whitewater rafting for the first time, or you’re a seasoned rafter trying to perfect your kayak roll, our ACA (American Canoe Association) certified instructors are ready to teach you all you need to know!
We offer group and private classes on the scenic Middle Fork of the Flathead River, to give you the knowledge and safety skills needed to get you from lakes to whitewater river running.
We can tailor your kayak training needs to you. Let us help you start your whitewater kayak journey today!
Summer 2026 classes are available upon request
List of kayaking classes
Rolling Classes
The Glacier River School is a great place to start learning the basics. Our American Canoe Association (ACA) certified instructors teach small group classes that start with basic kayak skills, then work up to more techniques to help you feel confident on the water.
Course Price
Pricing is based on number of people, amount of time requested, actual time spent working on technique, and the shuttle to the river. Depending on where you choose to work, your vehicle may need to be available for a shuttle. Kayaks, skirts, drytops, pfds, helmets, and paddles provided.
- 1 person – $50/hour
- 2 people – $45/person/hour
- 3 people – $40/person /hour
- 4 or more people – $35/person/hour
Skills Covered
- The “Five Fundimentals” of Paddling Position/ Strokes
- Strokes-Forward& back strokes, Sweep strokes, forward& back, C-stroke
- Specialty strokes – Stern/ Bow Draw, Sculling Draw
- Bracing- High/low
- Wet exit
- Bow rescues (T-rescues)
- Rolling
- Hip Snap
- Edging
- C-turn and S-turns
Custom Kayak Classes
At Glacier River School, we have found that developing boaters need individual attention for best results. Our instructors offer some of the best whitewater kayak instruction available in Montana, and will work with you or your group to target the skills that you are looking to develop.
Course Price
Pricing is based on number of people, amount of time requested, actual time spent working on technique, and the shuttle to the river. Depending on where you choose to work, your vehicle may need to be available for a shuttle. Kayaks, skirts, drytops, pfds, helmets, and paddles provided.
- 1 person – $225 (3 hours) – $350 (6 hours)
- 2 people – $300 (3 hours) – $450 (6 hours)
- 3 people – $400 (3 hours) – $500 (6 hours)
- 4 people – $500 (3 hours) – $600 (6 hours)
Larger group pricing available, call for details.
Skills Covered
- River signals/ safety
- Enter/exit of eddies
- Ferries
- running rapids
- Choosing lines/ reading water
- Surfing- more advanced
- Scouting vs “reading and running”
- and more!
Benefits of learning kayaking in West Glacier
Kayaking is a rewarding activity where you can get a solid, cardiovascular workout while spending time in the pristine nature of the Flathead River in Montana.
- Kayaking helps promote balance and endurance strength
- If you’re kayaking together, kayaking can be a great team-building activity that promotes communication and trust.
- While you’re kayaking, you get the chance to learn about local ecosystems among the Flathead River.
- Kayaking can help reduce stress. Exercise, paired with spending time outdoors, is a great way to center yourself and regulate your emotions.
Tips for getting the most out of kayaking lessons
Make sure you are dressed properly. Here are a list of things you won’t need and shouldn’t bring:
- Don’t wear expensive jewelry
- Non-waterproof camera
- Car keys
- Anything you don’t want to lose on the river
- Cell phones
Visit our shop if you forget important items:
- Our store sells chums (retainers for your glasses), t-shirts, sweatshirts, sunscreen, waterproof cameras, snacks and drinks.
Listen to your instructor
- All of our instructors practice Leave No Trace ideologies and are ACA certified – they know what they are talking about!
- For safety purposes, and to ensure everyone gets the most out of the kayaking lessons, be respectful of your instructors and others in your group.
Kayak Gallery
This institution is operated under special use permit with the Flathead National Forest.
Our Friends
The American Canoe Association
The American Canoe Association is the way to go if you’re getting into boating. Their methods of skill progression have taken countless people from beginner to boatman.
Rescue 3
Rescue 3 International has been setting the standard for technical river rescue since 1979. Their instructors teach in over 32 countries worldwide.
Desert Mountain Medical
DMM’s vision is to empower outdoor professionals and recreationalists to feel confident and prepared to recognize and treat backcountry emergencies utilizing limited resources.
Valor Equine Therapy Services, Inc.
A Montana based 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation established to help veterans and first responders suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and/or traumatic brain injury.
Ready to start your kayak adventure?
If you’re wondering which class is right for you, our guides can help you decide. Let us know if you have any questions before booking your kayak lessons with Great Northern Resort.