Answers to some of our most Frequently Asked Questions can be found here
We hope this list of Frequently Asked Questions will be found to be useful. However you can always reach out to us personally.
If you wish to speak to a live person, please feel free to give us a call. We take calls Sunday to Saturday, from 9 am to 5 pm. If we don’t answer, we’re probably with a guest so leave a message and we’ll get right back to ya. *We are currently experiencing phone and internet problems. We are aware of the problem and have contacted our provider. Please leave a message. We are checking the phones every couple of hours.
How is COVID-19 Affecting Your Service?
We are currently operating at quarter the staff we usually have. This means if something happens, whether a Guide is injured or ill, we may have to cancel a guided trip. Too, it means that we have a slower response time to answering phones, and returning calls and messages. It’s best to call between 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 pm; then again between 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm. Otherwise we are likely with guests gearing them up and sending them off on their adventure.
We return calls in the order we receive them so It is best to call and leave a voicemail message as those calls receive priority over unknown calls. Just call once and leave a message and we’ll get right back to you.
Has your reservation been cancelled by us?
Unfortunately, this may happen during this crazy time. We are doing our best to provide safe, memorable, adventures to all of our guests. If we feel we are unable to accommodate this, we will cancel. That means if a machine is damaged we may either change machines or reschedule your reservation. Should you be unable to reschedule we will fully refund your payments.
Lastly, meals are being removed from our offerings for now. We will attempt to take you to a local eatery, however it is best to plan to bring food. We do have a couple of coolers, so be sure to ask if you can borrow one, at the time of your reservation. We expect they’ll go fast.
We thank you for your understanding during this truly unprecedented time.
Riding Requirements and Restrictions
While we don’t have an age requirement for being a passenger, we do have a height and ability requirement.
Each person must be able to sit with their back touching the seat, holding the handholds, and feet firmly planted on the floor, according to the manufacturer of our equipment. We estimate this to be about 48″ in the RZR and General. Please know that we cannot accommodate infant car seats or booster seats. This is for your child’s safety as children’s heads and necks are different from adults. If they aren’t the appropriate size then they cannot hold on. This endangers the child and can cause anything from whiplash to brain trauma. We have estimated that in order to ride on a 4-wheeler as a passenger, the guest must be a minimum of 10 years old -AND- be able to demonstrate that their feet touch the floor, with their back touching the seat and can hold the hand holds while riding. This is an estimated 55″ . While height is part of the requirement it is also of great importance that the passenger demonstrate the ability to hold on. Failure to check these points prior to arrival can cause delays and even non-refundable cancellation of your adventure. Please be sure to check before booking.
Where are you located?
Great question! During the winter- we are located at 8955 Hwy 93 N Olney MT 59927 in order to be close to our amazing trail system. In the summer you will find us at our ATV track: 6235 Hwy 93 Whitefish, MT 59937. We also offer various meeting locations to better serve you: For example near some of the OHV trail heads. Depending on the ride style you’re seeking, we may have you come straight to HQ or we may ask you to meet us at one of the many trail heads in the valley.
But do you deliver?
Thanks for asking! We do deliver, and pick up too. If you request delivery within 10 miles of 8955 Hwy 93 N, there is no charge. If you wish to ride outside of that area we charge $100 per direction, per machine, to within 20 miles of that location. Every where else is based on mileage to delivery location.
You said we ‘won’t get lost’, are you sure?
Absolutely. First, we make sure you have a general idea of where you are currently at. Second, we equip you with a local map (your choice, digital or paper). Too, our RZR’s are fitted with a GPS tracker that we can locate the machine with. Google Maps allows you to download maps so if you are not in service range- you can still find your way. (Don’t worry, we have wi-fi available so you can get the maps downloaded)
We have emergency beacons on all of our off-road equipment, in the event you have an actual emergency, you simply use the beacon and EMS will be notified. All machines are tracked via satellite for location. Help will be sent to that location immediately.
Lastly, if you are worried you do have the option of hiring a Guide, but not usually same day- so be sure to book ahead.
Why should I “Get the Guide”?
While we do our best to help make sure your ride is unique, safe, and memorable, we simply can’t tell you every little spot we love. There’s not enough time in the day, not even to stop at all the stops on one route! That’s why we say your ride is unique- today’s will be different from tomorrow’s. We can pretty much guarantee it. We are located at the convergence of 3 forest systems, which has a history of its own; plus the little timber townships of Olney, and Radnor, not to mention the trails, like “Fort Steele”. If you ever want a good read, look up the Fort Steele Trail (1890’s). See? We’ve already taken up a fair amount of time just trying to tell you one small thing. Like many places, Olney has a rich history, lots of gems, a million spots only the locals know and so much more. Why “Get the Guide”? Because you have no idea how much you’re missing out on without one: From hard to find trails to gorgeous waterfalls and old cabins…and so much more.
Ok, I want to visit, do you have a place to stay?
There are some amazing and cute cabins on the lakes around here. Some are found on VRBO and AirB’nB, while others are exclusively rented to our guests. You can go camping pretty much anywhere on the Stillwater Forest, but make sure you get your recreation permit! (you can do that on the DNRC website). There’s also the Mt Marston Lookout you can rent- but hurry, it books fast!
You can stay at a Lodge if you prefer: there’s Beaver Lake Bike Retreat and Dog Creek Lodge and Nordic Center nearby, or one of the many fine hotels in Whitefish, just a hop, skip ‘n jump up the road.
What should we wear if we’re renting a RZR?
Given Montana is a bit finicky in the weather department, we always suggest light layers, keeping your bathing suit underneath it all- in case you want to go swimming.
There’s about 20 lakes just in our riding area: by mid-day in the summer, you’ll be wishing you could jump in one.
Keep a lightweight jacket or windbreaker for your outside layer.
Long sleeves, long pants and close-toed shoes: this is not only the perfect riding gear; it is what we require for ATV and RZR rentals.
We provide helmets and goggles.
Wait- should I wear the same thing if I’m getting an ATV?
Just like with the RZR’s- we suggest wearing light layers. However, that’s where the similarity ends. We do not allow wearing shorts or tank tops alone- when riding. You don’t have the same cover of protection and if you’re on the trails, you will definitely come up against stray branches. We don’t want to see you get scratched. While it sounds like it would be no big deal, and it probably will be- there is a risk of infection, besides just being dang old irritating.
Long sleeves, long pants, closed-toe shoes- but we prefer at least hiking style boots.
We provide the helmets and goggles.
I’m going to be on a boat, do I need the same clothes?
Actually, we might say: Yes. Depending on the time of day you plan to be going out on the water.
Whether you’re on a Paddleboard, in a Kayak or even if you’re up off the water on one of the boats- it’s chilly in the early morning. Wear light layers. Be prepared to strip down to your shorts or bathing suit, as the afternoons are hotter than hot out on the water with no shade. Bring your favorite sunscreen or use ours.
You can also ask for an umbrella… we usually have a couple on hand. They are lightweight and collapsible, which offers the perfect amount of shade when you need a break from the sun.
Pontoon Deck Boat and Pontoon Boat, what’s the difference?
A lot actually. For starters the Pontoon Deck boat is a flat deck boat that really is more like a floating dock, with rails and a motor. We do have a swim ladder but you need to request it if you’re using it for swimming. The purpose of the bare minimum on this boat is to allow for multiple uses. Some prefer to take their family out fishing and swimming. The arrangement of using collapsible chairs is perfect for long periods on the water while allowing the kids plenty of floor space for stretching out and moving around, while at the same time giving the folks who are fishing ample room to have the edges for casting and moving about. The downside to this style boat is that it does not have a bimini. We do however, have a large shade umbrella that we send out with it.
The Pontoon boat is more what people are used to seeing. With wrap around seating, limited floor space, has extra storage, bigger motor and bimini, style Pontoon boat. While it does have the two seats for fishing behind the driver, the space for moving about while anchored is limited and there’s no collapsing or moving items to create space once anchored.
We have folks who take both styles out and like them equally well for what they intend to use them for.
All boats come with life-jackets (PFD’s)
Do you take Canadian Currency or offer “At Par”?
Instead of ‘at par’ we offer a discount of 20% . Canadian exchange rates fluctuate pretty dramatically sometimes and can be time consuming to keep up with unless you go with a weekly plan-then you need to make sure you do the exchange back at just right the time. So instead: We offer a discount.
Our friends in Canada, literal and figurative, have done a fair amount of participating in our business and we appreciate their support. In every thing from our races to our rentals, they’ve been proud supporters of Action Rentals and many of the businesses in the Olney and Whitefish areas. We would like to support them too- and the best way we can think of, without trying to incorporate the exchange rate every week is to offer a flat rate discount.
So, how does booking our adventure work, anything we should know up front?
We are so glad you asked this!
After you’ve decided what you want to rent, you need to consider how you want to ride:
With a Public Guide?
No additional cost. Our public guides leave at 2 designated times: 9 am and 1 pm.
Public guided trips simply means that your ride may be with other individuals. Our guides are very good at determining travel needs of a group and will adjust the route and timing to accommodate all travelers. This does not mean an in-line, 10 mph scenic tour. If you need a different ride style, or don’t want to be with a group, consider a Private Guide.
With a Private Guide?
Additional fees apply (Half day $100; Full day $175; gratuity is not included) Private guides have a little flexibility with leave times, you can discuss this with staff at the reservation desk. Private guide rates are per group, not per individual, so if you have 4 of you going out- that’s still the rate, and still your guide only.
No Guide?
Unguided rentals are available, but be aware we may require a damage deposit if you are riding outside of our trail system. Damage deposits are based on equipment rented and vary in pricing.
What should I know or can I expect on the rental date?
Thank you for asking this question! We want the process to be as fast as possible while still spending some quality time with you before you head out. It is super helpful if you pre-fill all of your Rental Documents and purchase your State recreational Use Permit before you arrive. You might want to check out the Tutorial below before heading to the State website though. If you pre-filled the documents per your emailed confirmation instructions, this process takes less than 5 minutes. We scan your Driver License and you sign the documents on a tablet. Then move on to Gearing Up. If you didn’t pre-fill your documents:
Expect this process to take up to 30 minutes depending on how many are in your group and how many others are in the office who haven’t pre-filled their paperwork. You will need to provide your Driver License and form of payment. This process could, potentially, start using up your ride time as the machine may be rented later in the day and must be back at a particular time.
The next step is to Gear Up: Get fitted with your helmet and goggles. Grab water bottles, radio etc. and head out to your machine. Depending on the season, this is about a 5 minute process. Winter takes longer though as you put on a lot more gear.
The final step, before your ride begins, is to do your check out and your safety walk-through. This is about a 5 minute process unless you would like some additional riding practice before you head out.
More to come…
This FAQ is a work in progress. Let us know what you think –
Is there anything missing? What else could we share that will help you decide what you want to do on your adventure?
Let us know by emailing us at info@actionrentalsmt.com
Thanks
