FloatETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 13340000 (Clearwater River at Orofino), not a guidebook average. At a typical 8,000 cfs, a raft drifts about 3.3 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 Clearwater River listing covers 28 river miles across 2 access-to-access stretches (Class I). 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 Clearwater River float time
Float stretches on the Clearwater River
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Orofino → Peck | 12 mi | Class I | ~3 hr 38 min | Wide river, easy current. Jet boats and fishing traffic on weekends. |
| Peck → Spalding (Nez Perce NHP) | 16 mi | Class I | ~4 hr 51 min | Longer valley miles into the Lewiston area. Wind can come up the canyon in the afternoon. |
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 Idaho Fish and Game for closures. Gauge page: USGS 13340000.
Common questions
How long does it take to float Orofino to Peck on the Clearwater River?
About 3 hr 38 min in a raft at a typical 8000 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Wide river, easy current. Jet boats and fishing traffic on weekends.
How long does it take to float Peck to Spalding (Nez Perce NHP) on the Clearwater River?
About 4 hr 51 min in a raft at a typical 8000 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Longer valley miles into the Lewiston area. Wind can come up the canyon in the afternoon.
What USGS gauge is used for Clearwater River float times?
FloatETA uses USGS gauge 13340000 (Clearwater River at Orofino) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 8000 cfs drift of about 3.3 mph.
Is the Clearwater River 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.