FloatETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 06205000 (Stillwater near Absarokee), not a guidebook average. At a typical 800 cfs, a raft drifts about 4.3 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 Stillwater River listing covers 13 river miles across 2 access-to-access stretches (Class 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 Stillwater River float time
Float stretches on the Stillwater River
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cliff Swallow → Absarokee | 6 mi | Class II | ~1 hr 24 min | Fast, rocky, cold. Rafts and duckies, not tubes. |
| Absarokee → Whitebird | 7 mi | Class II | ~1 hr 38 min | Keep your weight downstream through the rock gardens. |
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 06205000.
Common questions
How long does it take to float Cliff Swallow to Absarokee on the Stillwater River?
About 1 hr 24 min in a raft at a typical 800 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Fast, rocky, cold. Rafts and duckies, not tubes.
How long does it take to float Absarokee to Whitebird on the Stillwater River?
About 1 hr 38 min in a raft at a typical 800 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Keep your weight downstream through the rock gardens.
What USGS gauge is used for Stillwater River float times?
FloatETA uses USGS gauge 06205000 (Stillwater near Absarokee) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 800 cfs drift of about 4.3 mph.
Is the Stillwater 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.