Boating: How to Boat: Advanced: Paddle Sports

Glacier Park is more accurately Glaciated National Park. The spectacular peaks and lush mountain cirques were sculpted by ice long ago. The actual glaciers you see are just remnants of their former selves and, alas, are melting fast.

But as they melt, glacial flour mixes with frigid runoff, tinting local rivers a striking, aquamarine. It looks like a photographer's trick with colored filters. That hue is what adds character to the Middle Fork of the Flathead, the river which forms the southern boundary to Glacier Park.

The Middle Fork is an official Wild-and-Scenic River, blessed with Class III rapids and favored by day-tripping rafters and kayakers. The river is flanked on one side by U.S. Highway 2, which provides easy access. Beyond, the forested mountains of the Great Bear Wilderness provide a rugged backdrop. The scenery attracted Meryl Streep and her film crew when Hollywood shot portions of "The River Wild" here. Watch for mountain goats which lick minerals from an escarpment above the river.

Fishing in the Middle Fork is regulated by the state of Montana. Until recently, the stream was reliable for native cutthroat and bull trout. Recent declines have prompted new restrictions, including mandatory catch-and-release for cuts.

The tumbling McDonald Creek, with water so clear it looks distilled, drains the park's interior. And on Glacier's eastside flow three shorter rivers: the Belly River, the Two Medicine, and the St. Mary. These are too small for floating, but they are sparkling companions for hiking and great places to see elk, bears, and other creatures.

Wow Factor? Water from Glacier Park flows into three of the world's four ocean drainages: The Pacific, Atlantic, and Arctic. One may climb atop Triple Divide Peak and stand above three drainages at once. Wow.

Superintendent, Glacier National Park, West Glacier, MT, 59936. Phone: (406) 888-7800.