River goers float the Clark Fork

The University of Montana will again operate its UDASH River Shuttle starting Thursday, June 25, through Saturday, July 26.

UM photo by Ryan Brennecke

MISSOULA, Mont. – The University of Montana will offer the free UDASH River shuttle service on June 25. The shuttle will drive river-goers to popular points on the Clark Fork River. 

The shuttle buses will run Thursdays through Sundays. The route starts from Campus Drive near the UM Outdoor Program building, and stops at Sha-Ron river access point and Milltown state park.

Departure times will be from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday departures will begin at 12 p.m to 4 p.m, each hour. It is recommended to arrive 15 minutes before departure. 

Shuttle dates were adjusted to account for earlier weather and river flow conditions. 

“Providing student-operated, zero-fare river shuttles aligns with ASUM Transportation’s mission to provide safe, sustainable and equitable transportation options to campus and the community,” said Vickie Rectenwald, UM director of the Associated Students of UM Transportation.

Passengers are asked to deflate all floatation devices and stow them to save space. Stand-up paddle boards and extra-large equipment are not permitted on the bus.

A valid conservation license is required for river recreationists aged 12 and older. More information about the conservation license can be reviewed online. 

Ambassadors of the Missoula River Ambassador Program will welcome riders to the river and help educate recreationists about how to safely and responsibly enjoy the Clark Fork.

UDASH River Shuttles averaged over 1.700 trips each season since 2021.