FloatETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 12414500 (St Joe River at Calder), not a guidebook average. At a typical 1,800 cfs, a raft drifts about 3.3 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 St. Joe River listing covers 34 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 St. Joe River float time
Float stretches on the St. Joe River
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avery → Calder | 18 mi | Class I–II | ~5 hr 27 min | Upper-ish Joe. Wood and cold water. Best in early summer before it drops. |
| Calder → St. Maries | 16 mi | Class I | ~4 hr 51 min | Flatter miles into the lake country. Watch for motorboats near town. |
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 12414500.
Common questions
How long does it take to float Avery to Calder on the St. Joe River?
About 5 hr 27 min in a raft at a typical 1800 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Upper-ish Joe. Wood and cold water. Best in early summer before it drops.
How long does it take to float Calder to St. Maries on the St. Joe River?
About 4 hr 51 min in a raft at a typical 1800 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Flatter miles into the lake country. Watch for motorboats near town.
What USGS gauge is used for St. Joe River float times?
FloatETA uses USGS gauge 12414500 (St Joe River at Calder) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 1800 cfs drift of about 3.3 mph.
Is the St. Joe 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.