New Inflation Stations Hit Missoula’s River Spots

If you’re planning to float the Clark Fork this summer on a rubber tube with a cooler full of barley pops tied by twine. You’re a real hard head who refuses to acknowledge that the stuff you brought last summer is useless now that the squirrels have been nibbling on it. Missoula area river access points have a few upgrades for you this year that might make your life easier. Yeah, for once.

First of all, the River Ambassadors have returned. You will encounter these tan, laid-back folks at popular launch points, like Sha-Ron, Milltown State Park, and Kelly Island. They will not be there to scream at you as river cops. They’re there to help you not be a total mess out on the water. They will tell you which access points are blown out, which ones are packed, and how not to lose your Crocs halfway to downtown. Consider them your new cute little lifeguards for your floaty style.

Now let’s discuss the coolest addition this year...Inflation stations. This is going to save your lungs, your sanity, and your relationship. If you’ve ever attempted to inflate a four-person raft the old-fashioned way and in 90-degree heat, then you feel my pain. These new stations at Milltown and Sha-Ron will allow you to pump up your gear right there on-site, no huffing necessary. It’s a bike pump on steroids.

And if you’re one of those river rats who hate the shuttle logistics, ASUM is bringing back the River Shuttle. Gather your squad, pile into the shuttle, and spare yourself from the post-float “who left their car where?” debate.

Moral of the story? The river's gonna be packed. But maybe, thanks to these new efforts, at least it won’t be quite as whackadoodle.