Montana

Raft, Ride & Slide in Glacier National Park With Your Family

Program No. 22729RJ

Raft the Flathead River, look for wildlife, enjoy a gondola ride up Big Mountain and race down on an alpine slide on this national park adventure with your family.

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We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more

Protecting the Environment

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more

Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768

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Age 8 - 18

	ROOMING OPTION PRICING The figures below indicate the rooming options available.
DATES
Jul 26 - Jul 31, 2023 Per Adult 2,149 Per Child 1,349 Select
Jul 26 - Jul 31, 2023	2,149 / Adult 1,349 / Child	2,149 / Adult 1,349 / Child	2,949 / Adult 1,349 / Child	SOLD OUT

Aug 2 - Aug 7, 2023 Per Adult 2,149 Per Child 1,349 Select
Aug 2 - Aug 7, 2023	2,149 / Adult 1,349 / Child	2,149 / Adult 1,349 / Child	2,949 / Adult 1,349 / Child	Limited Space

Deposit, Transfer & Cancellation Policy

Program Terms & Conditions

Raft, Ride & Slide in Glacier National Park With Your Family

Program No. 22729RJ Deposit at Enrollment: 100 Final payment due: 59 days before departure date

Transfer & Cancellation Policy

Note: These fees apply to at least one date of this program, but may vary by date.

If you transfer or cancel:

fee will be applied if you do not call Road Scholar Participant Services at least one business day prior to the program start date.

Transfer Fee: 100 % of order total

Cancel Fee: 100 % of order total

less than 14 days prior to program start date

Transfer Fee: 50 % of order total

Cancel Fee: 50 % of order total

55 to 14 days prior to program start date

Cancel Fee: $200.00

119 to 56 days prior to program start date

Cancel Fee: $100.00

up to 120 days prior to program start date

Cancel Fee: $50.00

up to 14 days prior to program start date

Transfer Fee: $0.00

If you transfer or cancel:	Transfer Fee:	Cancel Fee:
fee will be applied if you do not call road scholar participant services at least one business day prior to the program start date.	100 % of order total	100 % of order total
less than 14 days prior to program start date	50 % of order total	50 % of order total
55 to 14 days prior to program start date		$200.00
119 to 56 days prior to program start date		$100.00
up to 120 days prior to program start date		$50.00
up to 14 days prior to program start date	$0.00

COVID-19 Vaccination Policy

For the greatest peace of mind and protection, we require all Road Scholar participants to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, including having received all recommended boosters if eligible.

Road Scholar Program Terms and Conditions

How to Enroll in a Program

Call Us or Enroll Online To enroll

Please call us toll free at (877) 426-8056, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET. You may also enroll online at www.roadscholar.org. To reserve space on a program, Road Scholar requires a deposit followed by final payment.

Road Scholar is Not-For-Profit

Road Scholar is a not-for-profit 501 (c)(3) organization that incurs over $5 million annually on credit card fees. Please help us reduce this cost by paying for your program with a check. Please consider our paperless check option when paying on the phone or over the Internet. Our Advisors are happy to explain this payment option to you.

Tax-Deductible Donations

As a not-for-profit organization, we appreciate and rely on charitable donations to help us develop and maintain high-quality educational programs with exceptional value. Donations from U.S. citizens are tax-deductible as provided by law. As Road Scholar is not a registered charity in Canada, donations are not tax deductible for Canadian citizens.

Financial Assistance

Road Scholar offers two kinds of assistance: Scholarships, for those with desire but not the financial means to participate in our U.S.- or Canada-based learning adventures; and Caregiver Grants, designed to provide a unique respite opportunity for unpaid family caregivers to participate in a U.S.- or Canada-based Road Scholar program. Visit www.roadscholar.org/about/financial-assistance/scholarships, email us at scholarships@roadscholar.org, or call us toll free at (877) 426-8056.

General Program Information

Activity Level Ratings

Each Road Scholar program is assigned an Activity Level rating, ranging from Easy Going to Challenging, which are noted on program webpages. Try our Advanced Search tool to find programs that match your activity level. If you have special needs, or need a little extra help in finding the right program for your level of fitness and ambition, please call us and we’ll work to find options for you.

Disabilities and Special Needs

Road Scholar is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to participants with special needs and disabilities. If you have special needs requiring accommodation, please communicate them to Road Scholar at the time of enrollment. We will discuss your request with you and make every effort to accommodate you.

Service Learning

Our Service Learning programs bring participants together to work as a team to serve worthy projects. Road Scholar and sponsoring service institutions are not-for-profit organizations and are tax-exempt under Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The program price may qualify as a tax-deductible gift. However, since individual circumstances vary, we suggest participants contact their tax advisors.

Included Emergency Assistance and Medical Evacuation Insurance

Road Scholar’s continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified in our Road Scholar Assurance Plan. Whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our programs overseas, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under the Road Scholar Assurance Plan. This plan is purchased by Road Scholar on behalf of every participant. The plan provides 24-hour assistance in the event of an emergency during your program and insurance for emergency medical evacuation. This plan includes insurance benefits underwritten by Arch Insurance Company and emergency assistance services provided by LiveTravel Assist. To learn more about this plan, including its terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions, and to view and download a certificate of insurance, please visit: www.roadscholar.org/about/included-insurance/

Travel Health

In addition to maintaining necessary vaccinations, including seasonal influenza vaccination, Road Scholar recommends all participants consult with their physician, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Department of State regarding their health condition and any recommendations specific to the destinations they will visit or transit well before departure. While Road Scholar does its best to provide pertinent information regarding international health requirements and travel health precautions for travel abroad, please remember we are not health experts and can only share with you the recommendations made by the CDC and the US Department of State. It It is therefore your responsibility to consult with your physician and/or contact the CDC for health information specific to your travel destination. Your physician will be able to assess your overall health and fitness, provide information and guidance on health risks you may encounter while traveling, medication you may need to take, and other precautions for the prevention of injury and illness during your program.

Here is guidance from the Centers for Disease Control on how to avoid contracting and spreading an illness.

Only travel if you are healthy. Stay home if you are sick, displaying any symptoms of potential sickness.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

For those looking for additional resources on this topic, we recommend trusted sources such as your physician, the US Department of State, CDC, and WHO.

U.S. Department of State: www.travel.state.gov
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): www.cdc.gov/travel
World Health Organization (WHO): www.who.int/

Your health and safety are of the utmost importance to us. To learn more about Road Scholar’s commitment to our participants’ well-being and the steps you can take to keep yourself healthy when traveling, please visit www.roadscholar.org/practical-information/general-health-safety/

Please also be sure to review our Travel Updates webpage for the latest travel information, steps we are taking to keep your program experience as safe as possible, as well as helpful information about how to prepare for your upcoming program and what to expect once you're there. www.roadscholar.org/practical-information/travel-updates/

Domestic Travel Arrangements

Programs in the United States and Canada require independent arrivals and departures unless otherwise stated, meaning that you must make your own travel arrangements to and from the program site. If you are flying to your program, you will be responsible for getting yourself from the airport to the starting location of your program and returning to the airport at the end. Please keep in mind that many airlines assess penalties if you need to change or cancel your ticket— up to 100 percent of the ticket price in certain cases — for which you will be responsible. Please also be aware that Road Scholar may occasionally have to alter a program in a way that affects flight schedules, and you will be responsible for changing your flight arrangements and paying applicable fees. For the greatest protection, we recommend waiting until 60 days prior to your program in the United States or Canada to purchase airfare.

International Travel Arrangements

Road Scholar Can Help Arrange Your International Airfare

Almost all of our international programs can be purchased with airfare arranged by Road Scholar. We have negotiated special international rates with major airlines. A list of departure cities can be found by visiting our website or calling to speak with one of our experienced Advisors. As an added benefit, guaranteed airport transfers on the program’s published start and end date are included with your international air travel when arranged through Road Scholar. If your preferred airport is not listed, or you would like to travel on a different day, travel in premium or business class, specify the airline or routing, or travel independently before or after our program, we are happy to customize and create a personalized air travel itinerary to meet your needs. Select the “Custom Flight Arrangements” option and then the airport you want, or discuss your flight preferences with one of our expert air Travel Advisors.

Arranging Your Own International Airfare

If you choose to make your own international air travel arrangements, you will be responsible for getting yourself from the airport to the starting location of your program and returning to the airport at the end. Please keep in mind that many airlines assess penalties if you need to change or cancel your ticket— up to 100 percent of the ticket price in certain cases — for which you will be responsible. Please also be aware that Road Scholar may occasionally have to alter a program in a way that affects flight schedules, and you will be responsible for changing your flight arrangements and paying applicable fees. For the greatest protection, we recommend waiting until 90 days prior to your International program to purchase airfare,

Road Scholar Optional Trip Protection with “Cancel for Any Reason” Coverage

The optional Road Scholar Trip Protection Plan helps protect your investment if you must cancel or interrupt your program for specified, covered reasons, such as illness or injury to you, your traveling companion or an immediate family member of you or your traveling companion. Plus, if you need to cancel your program for any reason not covered by insurance, you will receive a credit good for future travel with Road Scholar for the full amount of the Road Scholar cancellation fee. The plan also provides benefits if you are delayed getting to or returning home from your program and protects your investment should you have an emergency during your program that causes you to miss program days or return home earlier than expected. Your airfare, whether purchased through Road Scholar or independently, is covered at no additional cost — an exceptional benefit and value offered exclusively to Road Scholar participants. You will receive information about this optional travel insurance plan when you enroll in a program. To learn more about this plan, including its terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions, and to view and download a certificate of insurance, please visit: www.roadscholar.org/about/protection-plan.

Additional Program Information

Our goal is to make sure our participants have the most enjoyable and rewarding program experience possible. Whether you are considering one of Road Scholar’s many educational adventures or are currently enrolled in a program, we highly recommend you review the additional program information available in the Practical Information section on our website. The section includes a wide range of topics and information -- everything from how to choose the perfect program to traveling solo to insurance. Please visit www.roadscholar.org/practical-information, or call us if you have specific questions. After you enroll in a program, please be sure to carefully read all pre-program communications and your Program preparatory materials, as they provide important information about how to prepare for your upcoming program and what to expect once you're there.

Program Policies

Deposit, Transfer and Cancellation Policy

Road Scholar requires deposits for all its programs, and charges fees if you transfer or cancel your enrollment. Deposits and fees vary between programs. Please refer to the Deposit, Transfer & Cancellation Policy on program webpages for specific deposit amounts, and transfer and cancellation fee schedules.

About Program Details and Itineraries

We make every effort to operate our programs as advertised. The information on our website is updated regularly, and reflects the most up to date information. We are committed to providing participants with final program details no later than three weeks before the start of land programs within the United States, four weeks for programs International and Afloat programs. and one week for online programs. However, itineraries or other aspects of a program may change due to situations beyond the control. If this happens we will do our best to notify you of the change prior to arriving on your program. We ask you to pack a little extra patience and flexibility, just in case there are last-minute changes to your program.

If Road Scholar Cancels or Interrupts a Program

Road Scholar reserves the right to cancel programs prior to departure, terminate a program early, and to take action as needed on an individual or group basis when, in Road Scholar’s opinion, the health, safety or well-being of participants requires such action. Additionally, due to low enrollment or other unforeseen circumstances, Road Scholar must occasionally cancel or change the dates of a program. When that occurs we will notify you as far in advance as possible and will assist you in transferring your enrollment to another program or refunding your full Road Scholar program payment. If you have made transportation arrangements, such as an airline ticket purchase, Road Scholar will give you a credit good for future travel with Road Scholar to help cover the cost of transferring your travel arrangements for use on a replacement program. The maximum value of the credit will be $300 and documentation of your paid fees is required before issuance of the credit.

Accuracy of Information

While every effort is made to provide accurate information on our website and in our catalogs, Road Scholar is not responsible for typographical errors, inaccuracies or omissions that may relate to program descriptions, pricing, and availability. Road Scholar reserves the right to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions that may appear in our publications, and to change or update information at any time without prior notice. If you discover an error on our website or catalog, please let us know.

Program Pricing

As a not-for-profit organization, we are dedicated to providing exceptional educational opportunities at a remarkable value. We do everything in our power to ensure that the published program price is the price you pay. On occasion, costs we can’t anticipate and that are beyond our control arise and may be passed along to you. If this occurs, we will let you know as soon as possible.

Terms and Conditions

Program Selection
We want every participant to have a safe, enjoyable and rewarding program experience. The travel and activities of Road Scholar programs require participants to be in good general health and capable of performing all program activities as described by the program description and its corresponding Activity Level. As a group travel experience, participants must be capable of caring for themselves during the program and agree not to impede the progress of the program or interfere with the enjoyment of other participants. Participants are required to disclose known medical and physical conditions that may interfere with their safety and well being or the safety and well being of others during this program. Road Scholar may limit or terminate the participation in the program at the participant’s expense and without refund any participants who fail to disclose all medical information or do not honestly assess their physical capabilities in advance. With this information in mind, carefully consider the travel and program demands as described on the Road Scholar website, and consult with your physician about your travel plans. If after enrolling you have second thoughts about the program you chose, please call us and we will be happy to assist you in finding a program better suited to your abilities.

Responsibility

Road Scholar’s responsibility is limited. Road Scholar organizes, promotes, and sells educational programs consisting of certain travel services, including land, air, and water transportation, excursions, and cruise/barge/hotel accommodations that Road Scholar purchases or reserves from various suppliers (collectively, “Suppliers”). Road Scholar neither owns nor operates any of these Suppliers; they are independent contractors and are not Road Scholar’s agents. Therefore, Road Scholar is not responsible for any negligent or willful act or failure to act of any Supplier or any other third party. You agree that you will look to such Suppliers, and not to Road Scholar or its agents, for any accident, injury, property damage, or personal loss you may suffer. Without limitation, Road Scholar is not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage to person or property, death, delay, or inconvenience in connection with the provision of, or failure to provide, any goods or services occasioned by or resulting from — but not limited to — acts of God or force majeure, acts of war or civil unrest, insurrection or revolt, strikes or other labor activities, criminal or terrorist activities of any kind, mechanical or other failure of airplanes or other means of transportation, or the failure of any transportation mechanism to arrive or depart on time, or for any other cause beyond the direct control of Road Scholar.

Safety & Risks

Certain risks — from natural disasters to accidents, outbreaks of illness, crime, insect-borne and other infectious diseases, environmental risks to health, terrorism and other unforeseen events — are inherent in travel. While such occurrences are beyond our control, we make substantial efforts to be prepared for such possibilities. Participants are encouraged to review the safety and travel information provided by the U.S. Department of State and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to learn about current security issues, travel advisories and warnings, recent embassy notices, country-specific health information, health risks you may encounter while traveling, precautions for the prevention of illness, disease and general health issues during your program and other helpful destination-specific information. By enrolling in a program, you agree to assume responsibility for your own health, safety, and welfare, and acknowledge that Road Scholar cannot guarantee your safety or health at any time.

Admission & Participation Policy

The granting or denial of admission to a program is within the sole discretion of Road Scholar. Road Scholar reserves the right to revoke admission or terminate or limit participation at any time if Road Scholar reasonably determines a participant’s condition, behavior or actions are inappropriate or disruptive, or adversely affect the participant’s health or safety, or the health, safety or enjoyment of other participants. Road Scholar reserves the right to take action as needed on an individual or group basis when, in Road Scholar’s sole opinion, the health, safety or well-being of participants requires such action.

Photography and Video

Road Scholar reserves the right to take photographs, videos or audio/visual recordings during the operation of any program or part thereof and to use them, whether taken by a representative of Road Scholar or by other participants, for promotional purposes. By enrolling in a Road Scholar program, participants agree to allow their images or recordings to be used for such purposes. Participants who prefer that their images or recordings not be used are asked to identify themselves to program staff and the photographer at the commencement of their program. For Road Scholar online programs, all audio or video recordings, content and materials are the property of Road Scholar. Participants are prohibited from taking screen captures, or making, copying or distributing all or part of any audio or video recordings of online programs.

Online Program Terms

If you enroll in one of Road Scholar’s online programs, you are responsible for the integrity of the device on which you will attend this online program, as well as your own high-speed internet connection. Road Scholar is not responsible for outages or interruptions in internet service. Road Scholar cannot and will not provide recordings, content or materials, or provide reimbursement of any kind, for missed portion(s) of your online program, regardless of the reason.

Seller of Travel Information

Road Scholar’s state of Washington Seller of Travel Reg. No. 602244658. CST #2068427-40. Florida Seller of Travel Reg. No. ST35594.

Modifications to Terms and Conditions

Road Scholar reserves the right at any time to update, change, modify, or revise these Terms and Conditions at any time. Any changes will become effective upon posting the changes, modifications or revisions to the Terms and Conditions. Accordingly, participants should review Road Scholar’s Terms and Conditions regularly prior to travel in order to ensure they are aware of any changes.

© 2023 Elderhostel. All rights reserved. The Road Scholar service marks, logos, website address and other marks are owned by Elderhostel, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to inspiring adults to learn, discover and travel.

Optional Trip Protection Plan

Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768

6 days

5 nights

13 meals

5B 3L 5D

Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner

Kalispell

Aerial Adventure, Gondola ride, Alpine Slide, Presentation

Kalispell

Glacier National Park, Audubon Society Program & Walks

Kalispell

Wetlands Program, Downtown Whitefish, Scenic Raft Trip

Kalispell

Going-to-the-Sun Road, Hiking at Logan Pass

Kalispell

Program Concludes

Kalispell

View Full Itinerary

At a Glance

Discover the majestic peaks, sparkling rivers and green gullies of Glacier National Park and the Flathead Valley on an adventure with your family! Learn about magnificent wildlife like the mountain goat, bighorn sheep and bears on instructor-led walks and visits to many favorite spots in the park. Raft along Glacier's southern border, hike trails full of flora and fauna and look out over valleys, lakes, rivers and glacier-carved mountains in this beautiful, rugged landscape.

Activity Level

Outdoor: No Sweat

Expect full days with lots of activity. Hike 2 miles daily on maintained dirt trails in mountainous, uneven, and rocky terrain. The ability to get on and off a motor coach and on and off a raft is required. Standing during trail-side lessons. Elevations of 3,000-7,200 feet.

Family Programs

Share your love of learning with your family. These programs are designed for any combination of generations: grandparents, aunts, uncles, parents and children.

Best of all, you’ll…

Soar to new heights aboard the gondola to the Big Mountain summit and feel the wind in your hair as you slide down an alpine slide.
Experience Glacier National Park with a spectacular drive on the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Develop your teamwork skills on a raft journey down the Middle Fork of the Flathead River on Glacier's southern border.

General Notes

This is a Family program for participants, their adult children and grandchildren ages 8 and up. For a comparable adventure for just grandparents and grandchildren, check out "Raft, Ride & Slide in Glacier National Park With Your Grandchild" (#20884).

Suggested Reading List (7 books)

Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop

You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.

Search for a Title

Geology Along Going-to-the-Sun Road

by Raup, Earhart, Whipple, and Carrara

With this colorful and lively guide, Glacier National Park visitors can tour the fascinating geologic events that created the park's majestic scenery. Complete with an easy-to-read map that offers a three-dimensional perspective on the area's geology, Geology Along Going-to-the-Sun Road gives lay readers and geologists alike a glimpse into Glacier's unique geologic summary.

Wildflowers of Glacier National Park

by Shannon Kimball and Peter Lesica

Wildflowers of Glacier National Park and Surrounding Areas is a user-friendly field guide featuring over 300 of Glacier National Park's most common plant species. From wildflowers to trees to grasses and sedges, this book features beautiful photographs, detailed descriptions, notes on habitat and fun facts for each plant. It's a perfect plant reference for anyone with an interest in the natural history and splendor of Glacier National Park.

Grizzly Country

by Andy Russell

The grizzly bear has always inspired awe in man, but the animal's true nature and character has long been shrouded in myth. Few people know grizzlies as Andy Russell does, and in Grizzly Country he shares stories from a lifetime of experience observing them, first as hunter, then as cameraman. In wonderfully engaging prose, he reveals the life cycle of this remarkable creature.

Going-to-the-Sun Road: Glacier National Park's Highway to the Sky

by C.W. Guthrie

Traveling Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road is an experience like no other. Laborers toiled for nearly 20 years to complete the 50-mile road that winds an impossible route through the heart of Glacier. One of the most scenic highways in the world, this marvel of engineering set the standard for all national parks. C. W. Guthrie tells the intriguing tale of the history and the construction of the epic Going-to-the-Sun Road. Includes more than 60 black-and-white historic and color photographs, maps.

KIDS: Born Wild in Glacier National Park

by Donald M. Jones

Springtime in Glacier National Park is where the wild things are---baby wild things! This charming collection of candid and sometimes comical images by wildlife photographer Donald M. Jones is devoted entirely to the park's junior residents.

Glacier - A Natural History Guide

by David Rockwell

Author and naturalist David Rockwell presents in-depth descriptions of the geology, history, flora, and fauna of the park. He explains the park's evolution from the erosion of Siberian mountains more than a billion years ago to the glaciers that gave Glacier National Park its distinctive landscape. He examines the park's great predators-grizzly bears, mountain lions, and wolves-and their complex relationship with their prey. The result is a fascinating and intimate portrait of one of the world's last wild places.

KIDS: Going to Glacier National Park

by Alan Leftridge

Designed for children ages 8 to 13, Going to Glacier is packed with fun and fascinating information about Glacier National Park. Authored by Alan Leftridge, seasonal ranger and naturalist, the colorfully illustrated book details the parks namesake glaciers, flora and fauna, dramatic weather, Indians and early settlers, historic sites and structures, and the effects of fire. The book also features maps and interpretive information for hikes that the kids will love. A must-have for families traveling to Glacier National Park!

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6 days

5 nights

13 meals

5 B 3 L 5 D

DAY

Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner

Kalispell

Hilton Garden Inn Kalispell

Activity note: Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m.

Afternoon: Collect your welcome packet from the front desk of the hotel upon check-in. It will contain an up-to-date schedule that reflects any last-minute changes and other important information. Program Registration: 4:00 p.m. After you have your room assignment, join us at the noted meeting room and meet your Group Leader, complete paperwork, and make sack lunch selections. Orientation: 5:00 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. We will travel by motorcoach and historic Red Bus. We will break into smaller groups for hikes based on preference and ability. Hikes will be led by local experts who will share their knowledge along the trail. Restrooms are available at most trail heads. This is a Road Scholar family program. Adults are responsible for their minor children. If/when separate age group activities are conducted concurrently, program staff will supervise. Children are never to be left unsupervised. “America the Beautiful” passes cover entrance fees at national parks for up to four adults. If you have one of these national park passes, please bring it with you to the program and on our field trips Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.

Dinner: In our meeting room at the hotel.

Evening: At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow participants, settle in, and get a good night’s sleep for the day ahead.

DAY

Aerial Adventure, Gondola ride, Alpine Slide, Presentation

Kalispell

B,L,D

Hilton Garden Inn Kalispell

Activity note: Getting on/off motorcoach, gondola, and alpine slide; driving about 25 miles to/from Whitefish Mountain Resort, approximately 45 minutes each way. Walking up to 1 mile throughout the day on dirt trails that may be rocky, hilly, and uneven. Periods of standing and sitting throughout the day. Aerial Adventure is physically demanding and requires climbing, crouching, and maneuvering through obstacles, safety harnesses required. Maximum elevation 6,800 feet.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: The day opens with discovery and adventure as we travel to Big Mountain at Whitefish Mountain Resort with our Group Leader to take part in a fun bonding experience. Especially for kids: We’ll climb, slide, and “fly” on an aerial adventure obstacle course in the trees. Secured in safety harnesses, we’ll travel between the trees on suspended bridges, cable walkways, nets, ladders and other fun elements. You may choose to participate in the aerial adventure, or to encourage your family memebers from the ground. Next, we'll board the "Glacier Chaser" gondola and chairlift, for a 15-minute scenic ride to the 6,800 foot summit of Big Mountain. At the top, we'll have breathtaking panoramic views of Glacier National Park, Flathead Valley, and surrounding areas.

Lunch: At a restaurant on the summit of Big Mountain.

Afternoon: We will be joined by a forest ranger who will give us a presentation about on this spectacular part of the Rocky Mountains. After the presentation, we'll ride the gondola down the mountain to the start of the Alpine Slide. Especially for kids: To end our day on the mountain, we'll have an exciting ride down the 1,605 foot long Alpine Slide. The flat, wheeled sleds have hand brakes to control your speed. We'll whiz around curves, zoom through a tunnel, and fly down straightaways. Note: Kids under 48" (4 feet) tall must ride with an adult. We’ll board the motorcoach and return to the hotel tired but exhilarated. We'll have some time to freshen up and relax before dinner.

Dinner: In the hotel meeting room.

Evening: A local expert will lead a presentation on the wild wonders of Glacier National Park and surrounding area.

DAY

Glacier National Park, Audubon Society Program & Walks

Kalispell

B,L,D

Hilton Garden Inn Kalispell

Activity note: Getting on/off motorcoach; driving 50 miles to/from trailhead in Glacier National Park, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes each way. Walk 2 miles on dirt trails that may be rocky, slippery, hilly, and uneven. Standing during trail-side lessons and activities. 225 foot elevation gain; maximum elevation 3,410 feet.

Breakfast: At the hotel buffet.

Morning: We’ll board the motorcoach and head out for a full-day field trip in Glacier National Park. Local experts from the Flathead Audubon Society will lead us on interpretive walks along rushing McDonald Creek and through a cool hemlock forest. While on the trail, participate in a variety of fun, instructor-led activities that will capitalize on the natural curiosity of children. We'll focus on using different senses to experience and explore the secrets of the natural, wild surroundings.

Lunch: Sack lunch on the trail.

Afternoon: We'll continue our interpretive walks with the Flathead Audubon Society instructors and we'll learn about the flora and fauna we encounter along the trail. After our walks we'll ride the bus to Lake McDonald where we will have some free time to relax. Spend it exploring the historic Lake McDonald Lodge, or just sit by the lake and enjoy the expansive scenery.

Dinner: At a restaurant inside Glacier National Park.

Evening: At leisure.

DAY

Wetlands Program, Downtown Whitefish, Scenic Raft Trip

Kalispell

B,D

Hilton Garden Inn Kalispell

Activity note: Getting on/off motorcoach;driving approximately 18 miles,1/2 hour to Whitefish. Drive 25 miles, about 40 minutes to rafting; drive to hotel 32 miles, less than 1 hour. Bring water attire, required life jackets are provided, optional water shoes and wet suits available. Rafting field trip is approximately 2 hours, with periods of sitting, paddling (according to personal choice), and opportunities to get out and stretch legs. Restroom facilities available at the raft company headquarters.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: We'll travel on our motorcoach to Whitefish and join a local environmental scientist to get a big-picture understanding of Whitefish Lake and nearby wetlands. We'll learn about the complex food web of the lake, the native and introduced fish species that are found there, and talk about the changes that are caused by introduced species. Especially for Kids: We'll participate in some hands-on scientific research of our own and learn about insect indicators of water quality. Next, we'll have time for personal independent exploration in Whitefish. The historic downtown is full of western charm and is very pedestrian friendly. The nearby Whitefish Railway Depot was built in 1927 Great Northern Railway and is listed on the National Register of Historic Buildings.

Lunch: This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like in Whitefish. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Whitefish has numerous restaurants to choose from.

Afternoon: We'll hop on the motorcoach and drive to the MT Raft headquarters in West Glacier. When we arrive, we will be outfitted with life jackets and any additional equipment we need. From the raft company headquarters, it is a short ride on a bright blue school bus to the river launch! Especially for kids: A fun and splashy adventure awaits! We'll go on an expert-led rafting trip down the beautiful Middle Fork of the Flathead River. If you choose, you can help paddle the boat through the rapids, be prepared to get wet! As we travel by raft along the southern border of Glacier National Park we will gain a unique perspective of the landscape. We'll learn about the geologic forces that shaped the landscape, appreciate the river’s Wild and Scenic Waterway designation, and discover why this pristine river is such an important part of the ecosystem. We'll learn about where all the water comes from and where it is headed. Along the way keep your eyes peeled for wildlife along the shoreline, you may even spot a bear.

Dinner: Cookout at raft company pavilion. We'll be spending the evening outside so bring dry clothes and a warm layer for after the raft trip.

Evening: Returning to the hotel, the remainder of the evening is at leisure.

DAY

Going-to-the-Sun Road, Hiking at Logan Pass

Kalispell

B,L,D

Hilton Garden Inn Kalispell

Activity note: Getting on/off motorcoach and Red Bus, driving about 37 miles, approximately 1 hour each way to/from Glacier. Then about 30 miles, 1 1/2 hour each way on Red Bus. Hiking up to 2 miles on maintained dirt trails that may be uneven and rocky, and on boardwalk with steep and deep steeps. Elevation of 6,646 feet at Logan Pass, max elevation 7,200 feet.

Breakfast: At the hotel.

Morning: This morning we'll travel to the Apgar area of Glacier National park where our expert instructors will offer enriching interpretation as we walk the trails and explore the area. We'll also stop at the base of Lake McDonald to take in the mountain views and learn about the glacial forces that carved this huge lake long ago.

Lunch: Sack lunches.

Afternoon: This afternoon, we will set off on a Red Bus and travel the Going-to-the-Sun Road (subject to weather and road conditions). As we ride aboard these iconic vehicles, we’ll be immersed in the natural grandeur of the region through insightful commentary from the drivers. First used in the mid-1930s to transport visitors in Glacier and fully restored in 2001, the historic Red Busses continue to delight passengers today. Their canvass roll-back tops allow for unsurpassed views of the towering mountains in every direction. Going-to-the-Sun Road is a National Historic Landmark and the only road that crosses Glacier National Park. The narrow road hugs the cliffside as it winds through the mountains, inspiring awe at every turn. The road was designed to complement the landscape and give visitors the opportunity to enjoy some of the most spectacular scenery Glacier National Park has to offer. Our destination is Logan Pass, the highest point on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Located on the Continental Divide at 6,646 feet, waters here flow either toward the Pacific or Atlantic Oceans. At Logan Pass we'll set off on foot for an expert-led interpretive walk in the subalpine ecosystem. We'll search for evidence of past glaciers by looking for geological features such as aretes, glacial horns, moraines, and waterfalls. We will also be on the lookout for special plants and animals with unique adaptations that allow them to thrive in the harsh, high elevation environment. Along the way we may be distracted by meadows teeming with wildflowers and towering snow-capped peaks! The trail starts at about 6,660 feet and climbs up from there. The trail consists of pavement, a boardwalk with steep and deep steps, and a dirt and rock trail. After our walks conclude, we will board the Red Buses and return to Apgar via Going-to-the-Sun Road. There we will transfer to our motorcoach and then return to the hotel.

Dinner: At the hotel. Share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.

Evening: At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.

DAY

Program Concludes

Kalispell

Activity note: Hotel check-out by 12:00 Noon.

Breakfast: At the hotel. This concludes our program.

Morning: If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!