FloatETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 06191500 (Yellowstone at Corwin Springs), not a guidebook average. At a typical 2,200 cfs, a raft drifts about 4.5 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 Yellowstone River (Gardiner) listing covers 15 river miles across 2 access-to-access stretches (Class III, Class II–III). 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 Yellowstone River (Gardiner) float time
Float stretches on the Yellowstone River (Gardiner)
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gardiner (Queen of the Waters) → Corwin Springs | 8 mi | Class II–III | ~1 hr 47 min | Continuous wave trains at higher flows. Not a tube float. |
| Corwin Springs → Carbella (below Yankee Jim Canyon) | 7 mi | Class III | ~1 hr 33 min | Yankee Jim Canyon — Boat Eater rapid. Scout or go with a guide. |
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 06191500.
Common questions
How long does it take to float Gardiner (Queen of the Waters) to Corwin Springs on the Yellowstone River (Gardiner)?
About 1 hr 47 min in a raft at a typical 2200 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Continuous wave trains at higher flows. Not a tube float.
How long does it take to float Corwin Springs to Carbella (below Yankee Jim Canyon) on the Yellowstone River (Gardiner)?
About 1 hr 33 min in a raft at a typical 2200 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Yankee Jim Canyon — Boat Eater rapid. Scout or go with a guide.
What USGS gauge is used for Yellowstone River (Gardiner) float times?
FloatETA uses USGS gauge 06191500 (Yellowstone at Corwin Springs) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 2200 cfs drift of about 4.5 mph.
Is the Yellowstone River (Gardiner) a good tube float?
Tubes lag the current (we use a 0.72× speed multiplier). This listing includes Class III or harder water — rafts and experienced paddlers, not tubes.