FloatETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 06016000 (Beaverhead at Barretts), not a guidebook average. At a typical 400 cfs, a raft drifts about 2.4 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 Beaverhead River listing covers 19 river miles across 2 access-to-access stretches (Class I). 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 Beaverhead River float time
Float stretches on the Beaverhead River
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clark Canyon Dam → High Bridge FAS | 9 mi | Class I | ~3 hr 45 min | Best floating on the river. Narrow and brushy. Great trout water. |
| High Bridge FAS → Barretts Dam | 10 mi | Class I | ~4 hr 10 min | Portage Barretts Dam if you continue. Below here the river slows and fills with fences. |
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 06016000.
Common questions
How long does it take to float Clark Canyon Dam to High Bridge FAS on the Beaverhead River?
About 3 hr 45 min in a raft at a typical 400 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Best floating on the river. Narrow and brushy. Great trout water.
How long does it take to float High Bridge FAS to Barretts Dam on the Beaverhead River?
About 4 hr 10 min in a raft at a typical 400 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Portage Barretts Dam if you continue. Below here the river slows and fills with fences.
What USGS gauge is used for Beaverhead River float times?
FloatETA uses USGS gauge 06016000 (Beaverhead at Barretts) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 400 cfs drift of about 2.4 mph.
Is the Beaverhead 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.