FloatETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 12340500 (Clark Fork above Missoula), not a guidebook average. At a typical 2,500 cfs, a raft drifts about 3.5 mph here. Higher flow speeds you up; skinny water slows you down. Kayaks run faster than the current, tubes slower. Optional fishing adds 35 minutes per mile.
The Clark Fork River (Missoula) listing covers 11 river miles across 2 access-to-access stretches (Class I, Class I–II). Times in the table are typical raft hours at that reference flow. Open the live calculator for today's CFS, sunset take-out, water temperature, and rain/UV at the put-in.
See today's Clark Fork River (Missoula) float time
Float stretches on the Clark Fork River (Missoula)
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sha-Ron (East Missoula) → Caras Park | 6 mi | Class I–II | ~1 hr 43 min | Brennan's Wave is at the Caras Park takeout — exit river right above it if unsure. |
| Caras Park → Kelly Island | 5 mi | Class I | ~1 hr 26 min | Mellow water below town, braided channels near Kelly Island. |
How we time this river
Speed scales with discharge using hydraulic geometry v ∝ Q0.34, calibrated to this gauge. That is why a 1,000 cfs afternoon is a different day than 3,000 cfs runoff. Always scout, wear a PFD, and check Montana FWP boating for closures. Gauge page: USGS 12340500.
Common questions
How long does it take to float Sha-Ron (East Missoula) to Caras Park on the Clark Fork River (Missoula)?
About 1 hr 43 min in a raft at a typical 2500 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Brennan's Wave is at the Caras Park takeout — exit river right above it if unsure.
How long does it take to float Caras Park to Kelly Island on the Clark Fork River (Missoula)?
About 1 hr 26 min in a raft at a typical 2500 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Mellow water below town, braided channels near Kelly Island.
What USGS gauge is used for Clark Fork River (Missoula) float times?
FloatETA uses USGS gauge 12340500 (Clark Fork above Missoula) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 2500 cfs drift of about 3.5 mph.
Is the Clark Fork River (Missoula) a good tube float?
Tubes lag the current (we use a 0.72× speed multiplier). On Class I–II stretches tubes can work at moderate flows; skip high water and always wear a PFD.