FloatETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 06026500 (Jefferson near Twin Bridges), not a guidebook average. At a typical 1,500 cfs, a raft drifts about 2.7 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 Jefferson River (Twin Bridges) listing covers 16 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 Jefferson River (Twin Bridges) float time
Float stretches on the Jefferson River (Twin Bridges)
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silver Star FAS → Parsons Bridge (Waterloo) | 6 mi | Class I | ~2 hr 13 min | Diversion dam just below Waterloo — rope or portage. Don't drift it blind. |
| Parsons Bridge → Parrott Castle FAS | 10 mi | Class I | ~3 hr 42 min | Another diversion at Parrott Castle. Meandering valley, watch for fences at low water. |
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 06026500.
Common questions
How long does it take to float Silver Star FAS to Parsons Bridge (Waterloo) on the Jefferson River (Twin Bridges)?
About 2 hr 13 min in a raft at a typical 1500 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Diversion dam just below Waterloo — rope or portage. Don't drift it blind.
How long does it take to float Parsons Bridge to Parrott Castle FAS on the Jefferson River (Twin Bridges)?
About 3 hr 42 min in a raft at a typical 1500 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Another diversion at Parrott Castle. Meandering valley, watch for fences at low water.
What USGS gauge is used for Jefferson River (Twin Bridges) float times?
FloatETA uses USGS gauge 06026500 (Jefferson near Twin Bridges) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 1500 cfs drift of about 2.7 mph.
Is the Jefferson River (Twin Bridges) 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.