FloatETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 13037500 (Snake River nr Heise), not a guidebook average. At a typical 9,000 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 South Fork Snake (Canyon) listing covers 38 river miles across 2 access-to-access stretches (Class I, 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 South Fork Snake (Canyon) float time
Float stretches on the South Fork Snake (Canyon)
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Conant → Byington | 26 mi | Class I–II | ~6 hr 51 min | Full-day canyon. No intermediate ramp. Cottonwood gallery, eagles, and a committed float. |
| Byington → Lorenzo | 12 mi | Class I | ~3 hr 9 min | River opens into the Heise valley. Twin Bridges is an optional pullout. Watch irrigation diversions. |
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 13037500.
Common questions
How long does it take to float Conant to Byington on the South Fork Snake (Canyon)?
About 6 hr 51 min in a raft at a typical 9000 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Full-day canyon. No intermediate ramp. Cottonwood gallery, eagles, and a committed float.
How long does it take to float Byington to Lorenzo on the South Fork Snake (Canyon)?
About 3 hr 9 min in a raft at a typical 9000 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. River opens into the Heise valley. Twin Bridges is an optional pullout. Watch irrigation diversions.
What USGS gauge is used for South Fork Snake (Canyon) float times?
FloatETA uses USGS gauge 13037500 (Snake River nr Heise) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 9000 cfs drift of about 3.8 mph.
Is the South Fork Snake (Canyon) 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.