FloatETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 12370000 (Swan River near Bigfork), not a guidebook average. At a typical 800 cfs, a raft drifts about 3.1 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 Swan River listing covers 10 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 Swan River float time
Float stretches on the Swan River
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Swan Lake outlet → Bigfork (above the Wild Mile) | 10 mi | Class I–II | ~3 hr 14 min | Mellow until town. The Wild Mile gorge at Bigfork is a separate Class III run — don't float into it by accident. |
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 12370000.
Common questions
How long does it take to float Swan Lake outlet to Bigfork (above the Wild Mile) on the Swan River?
About 3 hr 14 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. Mellow until town. The Wild Mile gorge at Bigfork is a separate Class III run — don't float into it by accident.
What USGS gauge is used for Swan River float times?
FloatETA uses USGS gauge 12370000 (Swan River near Bigfork) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 800 cfs drift of about 3.1 mph.
Is the Swan 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.