FloatETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 12344000 (Bitterroot near Darby), not a guidebook average. At a typical 500 cfs, a raft drifts about 3.0 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 Bitterroot River (Darby / Hamilton) listing covers 15.5 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 Bitterroot River (Darby / Hamilton) float time
Float stretches on the Bitterroot River (Darby / Hamilton)
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Darby → Wally Crawford FAS | 6.5 mi | Class I | ~2 hr 10 min | Heads-up for new wood every runoff. |
| Wally Crawford FAS → Angler's Roost (Hamilton) | 9 mi | Class I | ~3 hr | Serious diversion dam mid-float — portage. Register at Angler's Roost if you use their takeout. |
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 12344000.
Common questions
How long does it take to float Darby to Wally Crawford FAS on the Bitterroot River (Darby / Hamilton)?
About 2 hr 10 min in a raft at a typical 500 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Heads-up for new wood every runoff.
How long does it take to float Wally Crawford FAS to Angler's Roost (Hamilton) on the Bitterroot River (Darby / Hamilton)?
About 3 hr in a raft at a typical 500 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Serious diversion dam mid-float — portage. Register at Angler's Roost if you use their takeout.
What USGS gauge is used for Bitterroot River (Darby / Hamilton) float times?
FloatETA uses USGS gauge 12344000 (Bitterroot near Darby) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 500 cfs drift of about 3.0 mph.
Is the Bitterroot River (Darby / Hamilton) 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.