FloatETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 12353000 (Clark Fork below Missoula), not a guidebook average. At a typical 5,000 cfs, a raft drifts about 4.2 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 Clark Fork (Alberton Gorge) listing covers 10 river miles across 1 access-to-access stretch (Class 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 Clark Fork (Alberton Gorge) float time
Float stretches on the Clark Fork (Alberton Gorge)
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cyr Bridge FAS → Tarkio | 10 mi | Class III+ | ~2 hr 23 min | Alberton Gorge. Cliffside, Triple Bridges, and the rest. Rafts — not tubes. Don't miss the 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 12353000.
Common questions
How long does it take to float Cyr Bridge FAS to Tarkio on the Clark Fork (Alberton Gorge)?
About 2 hr 23 min in a raft at a typical 5000 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Alberton Gorge. Cliffside, Triple Bridges, and the rest. Rafts — not tubes. Don't miss the takeout.
What USGS gauge is used for Clark Fork (Alberton Gorge) float times?
FloatETA uses USGS gauge 12353000 (Clark Fork below Missoula) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 5000 cfs drift of about 4.2 mph.
Is the Clark Fork (Alberton Gorge) 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.