Choose Date
Book an Alpine Lake Float and Guided Hike in the Bitterroot Mountains, Judith Basin County, Montana
Explore the rugged mountains and deep glacial canyons of Bitterroot National Forest in Judith Basin County, Montana, where challenging trails and seasonal creeks create a true backcountry adventure; you’ll appreciate bringing a guide when water crossings and lightly maintained routes test your skills. This hike-and-packraft float, offered exclusively by Bitterroot Backpacking, combines a memorable mountain trek with a unique river experience you won’t find elsewhere, making it an ideal Outdoor & Nature and Adventure & Thrill activity to book through Varoom when planning multi-day or full-day trips in the area.
About this activity in Judith Basin County
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Highlights
- Explore the rugged beauty of the Bitterroot National Forest with a one-of-a-kind hike and packraft float - a guided experience you won’t find elsewhere in the region.
- Cross deep glacial canyons and alpine creeks that make this destination a standout for outdoor-adventure seekers in Judith Basin County, Montana.
- Learn about local plants, animals, and natural history from a wilderness-first-responder and Leave No Trace certified guide who brings science-backed stories and lighthearted jokes.
- Enjoy small-group amenities like packraft rentals, freshly filtered snowmelt water, trail snacks, and optional huckleberry picking in season (mid-July to September).
Important Information
- This trip includes an experienced guide, safety gear and interpretation - bring appropriate hiking footwear, layered clothing and a moderate fitness level for creek crossings and uneven trails.
- Seasonal creeks and less-maintained trails are common here; expect water crossings and variable footing, so waterproofing and trekking poles are recommended.
- Packraft rentals are limited per group and guided use is required; confirm availability when you book to secure your spot.
- Anyone in general good health can join, and service animals are allowed - contact the operator with any health questions or accessibility needs before booking.
Meeting Point
Meet at the designated Bitterroot National Forest trailhead parking area; exact meeting location, start time and directions in Judith Basin County, Montana will be sent after booking. Please arrive 15 minutes early for gear fitting and a safety briefing.
Includes
- You’ll get freshly filtered water made from snowmelt - a natural hydration source sourced near Judith Basin County, Montana.
- Bear spray is carried on guided outings for added safety in this region’s backcountry.
- Backpacks are provided so you can focus on the landscape without worrying about gear.
- Packraft rentals are available (limited to 4 per group per Forest Service rules) for Water-Based adventures in the area.
- Your guide is Wilderness First Responder and Leave No Trace certified, ensuring responsible and safe trips through the local wilderness.
- Guides provide local plant and animal identification so you can learn about the region’s flora and fauna.
- The guide carries a GPS communicator and a first aid kit for remote-area safety.
- Seasonal huckleberry picking is offered mid-July through September when berries are ripe in the area.
- Trail snacks included: local beef jerky, vegan jerky, trail mix, assorted dried fruit, and natural protein bars (GoMacro, LaraBar).
- Enjoy science-based nature talks led by your guide to deepen your understanding of the local environment.
- Expect a few silly guide jokes to keep the mood light on the trail.
- Trekking poles are provided to help steady you on varied terrain.
Excludes
- You must bring your own clothing and hiking clothing appropriate for the season and activities here.
- Bring hiking shoes suitable for the local trails and river access.
- You should pack sunscreen to protect against sun exposure while exploring the area.
- Always bring a raincoat - weather can change quickly; it’s required as an emergency precaution.
- Transportation is not included; transportation Services are available on request - contact us to arrange a ride to the meeting point.
- Bring warm clothing if the forecast looks chilly - the outfitter maintains backup options if you need them.
Other
- Service animals are allowed on trips; please notify us when booking so we can prepare appropriately.
- Travellers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness to comfortably enjoy activities in this destination.
- Anyone in general good health can complete these trips - please inquire before booking if you have health concerns.
Customer Reviews
10/10
Based on 10 Reviews
Summary:
What a perfect day on the Camas Lake trail! We love to hike out in MT, but had never done a guided hike here before. Luke was so friendly and knowledgeable about the plants, wildlife, and history of the area/Montana in general. He gave us the option to hike further past Camas Lake to float (such a unique experience) on the even more impressive Kidney Lake. He also brought all the gear we could possibly need and some awesome snacks for us to have on the trail. Even made us tea after our float. The hike itself wasn't overly strenuous, but we still felt very accomplished by the day's end!
Read More
Summary:
Luke was fantastic! This was a great experience and I would highly recommend taking your family. We had a blast!
Read More
Summary:
This is our 2nd time staying in the bitterroot area of Montana and with more time to explore, we booked with Luke a hike and float nearby. Luke makes this trip exceptional. With his knowledge and experience, we felt safe while truly enjoying a moderate hiking experience. The float was amazing! What a gift to see and do. Thanks Luke! We hope you continue to offer this opportunity to others.
Read More
Other Popular Activities in Judith Basin County
Explore top attractions and memorable experiences, including iconic observation decks and family-friendly activities.
64 activities found
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $169Per Person
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $895Per Person
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $1,290Per Person
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $169Per Person
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $17Per Person
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $245Per Person
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $1,495Per Person
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $350Per Person
5-Star Rating Recommendation
From
US $20Per Person
Explore Judith Basin County, Montana for outdoor, tours, Events
Discover Judith Basin County, Montana for unforgettable Outdoor & Nature and Tours & Sightseeing experiences-from wide-open trails and wildlife viewing to Multi-Day / Full-Day adventures and local Food & Drink Events that make planning easy. You’ll find the region ideal for booking Group-Friendly Workshops & Learning, Adventure & Thrill outings, and Family & Kids activities that connect you with rural landscapes and Seasonal / Climate-Specific Events. Use this destination as your base to book guided tours, Sports and Shows & Entertainment, or Romantic & Couples escapes through Varoom and simplify finding stays that match the experiences you want in Montana.
Apartment
10.0(150 Reviews)
2 Bedrooms
2 Baths
4 Guests
2400 ft²
Fireplace/Heating
Breakfast
Kitchen
Air Conditioner
US $261/Night
7 Nights - US $1,827
House
10.0(5 Reviews)
5 Bedrooms
3 Baths
15 Guests
2798.62 ft²
- Fireplace/Heating
Parking
Child Friendly
Security/Safety
US $577/Night
7 Nights - US $4,039
Cabin
10.0(25 Reviews)
1 Bedroom
1 Bath
2 Guests
- Fireplace/Heating
Balcony/Terrace
Pet Friendly- Kitchen
US $210/Night
7 Nights - US $1,472
Cabin
10.0(29 Reviews)
2 Bedrooms
1 Bath
4 Guests
800 ft²
- Fireplace/Heating
- Balcony/Terrace
- Pet Friendly
- Kitchen
US $166/Night
7 Nights - US $1,164
Know more about Judith Basin County
You won’t find another guide offering this exact hike and packraft float experience in the Bitterroot National Forest. The trip combines rugged mountain hikes, deep glacial canyons, seasonal creek water crossings, and on-water floats - all led by a wilderness-first-responder and leave-no-trace certified guide who provides local natural history, packraft rentals, and a memorable guided experience.
You’ll get essentials like backpacks, packraft rentals (limited per group), freshly filtered snowmelt water, bear spray, a guide who carries a GPS communicator and first aid kit, local snacks (beef jerky, vegan jerky, trail mix, dried fruit, and bars), and interpretive sciencey nature talks - so you can focus on the outdoor experience.
Huckleberry picking is offered mid-July through September, which overlaps with prime summer season for hiking and water activities. Note that seasonal creeks vary, so conditions for crossings and floats can change throughout the season.
The terrain is rugged with uneven, sometimes lightly maintained trails and seasonal creeks that may require water crossings, so you should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness. The guide supports the group with backpacks, trekking poles, and safety equipment to help you enjoy the multi-activity outdoor nature adventure.
Yes - the experience is Group-Friendly and can work for families with appropriately fit participants. Trips are guided, educational, and include nature interpretation, but you should review fitness expectations before booking to ensure a safe, enjoyable outdoor adventure for everyone in your party.
Your guide is wilderness-first-responder and leave-no-trace certified, carries a GPS communicator and first aid kit, and provides local plant and animal identification and safety briefings. Bringing appropriate clothing and footwear for trail and water conditions is still recommended to complement the guide’s support.
