FloatETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 06073500 (Dearborn near Craig), not a guidebook average. At a typical 350 cfs, a raft drifts about 3.8 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 Dearborn River listing covers 19 river miles across 1 access-to-access stretch (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 Dearborn River float time
Float stretches on the Dearborn River
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highway 200 / Bean Lake area → Missouri confluence (Craig) | 19 mi | Class I–II | ~5 hr | Canyon float. Needs decent runoff; at low cfs you will drag. Watch for fences near the mouth. |
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 06073500.
Common questions
How long does it take to float Highway 200 / Bean Lake area to Missouri confluence (Craig) on the Dearborn River?
About 5 hr in a raft at a typical 350 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Canyon float. Needs decent runoff; at low cfs you will drag. Watch for fences near the mouth.
What USGS gauge is used for Dearborn River float times?
FloatETA uses USGS gauge 06073500 (Dearborn near Craig) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 350 cfs drift of about 3.8 mph.
Is the Dearborn 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.