FloatETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 06077200 (Smith bl Eagle Creek nr Fort Logan), not a guidebook average. At a typical 350 cfs, a raft drifts about 2.8 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.
This is a multi-day wilderness float. Plan shuttles, permits, and camps — the calculator shows total hours on the water, not a same-day take-out.
The Smith River (Permit) listing covers 59 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 Smith River (Permit) float time
Float stretches on the Smith River (Permit)
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Camp Baker → Eden Bridge | 59 mi | Class I–II | ~21 hr 4 min | Launch requires an FWP permit. Below ~150 cfs expect to drag boats. |
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 06077200.
Common questions
How long does it take to float Camp Baker to Eden Bridge on the Smith River (Permit)?
About 21 hr 4 min 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. Launch requires an FWP permit. Below ~150 cfs expect to drag boats.
What USGS gauge is used for Smith River (Permit) float times?
FloatETA uses USGS gauge 06077200 (Smith bl Eagle Creek nr Fort Logan) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 350 cfs drift of about 2.8 mph.
Is the Smith River (Permit) 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.