FloatETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 06066500 (Missouri bl Holter Dam), not a guidebook average. At a typical 4,000 cfs, a raft drifts about 3.0 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 Missouri River (Craig) listing covers 11.5 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 Missouri River (Craig) float time
Float stretches on the Missouri River (Craig)
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holter Dam → Craig | 3.5 mi | Class I | ~1 hr 10 min | Short and sweet. Busy boat ramp on summer weekends. |
| Craig → Mountain Palace | 8 mi | Class I | ~2 hr 40 min | Canyon scenery, steady current the whole way. |
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 06066500.
Common questions
How long does it take to float Holter Dam to Craig on the Missouri River (Craig)?
About 1 hr 10 min in a raft at a typical 4000 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Short and sweet. Busy boat ramp on summer weekends.
How long does it take to float Craig to Mountain Palace on the Missouri River (Craig)?
About 2 hr 40 min in a raft at a typical 4000 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Canyon scenery, steady current the whole way.
What USGS gauge is used for Missouri River (Craig) float times?
FloatETA uses USGS gauge 06066500 (Missouri bl Holter Dam) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 4000 cfs drift of about 3.0 mph.
Is the Missouri River (Craig) 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.