FloatETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 13337000 (Lochsa River nr Lowell), not a guidebook average. At a typical 4,000 cfs, a raft drifts about 5.5 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 Lochsa River listing covers 24 river miles across 2 access-to-access stretches (Class III–IV). 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 Lochsa River float time
Float stretches on the Lochsa River
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White Pine / Knife Blade → Fish Creek | 11 mi | Class III–IV | ~2 hr | Peak is May–June. Not a tube float. USGS stage at this gauge is not the Lowell Bridge staff — check Lochsa.info for the boater gauge. |
| Wilderness Gateway → Lowell | 13 mi | Class III–IV | ~2 hr 22 min | Packed rapids to the Selway confluence. Miss the takeout and you are on the Clearwater. |
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 Idaho Fish and Game for closures. Gauge page: USGS 13337000.
Common questions
How long does it take to float White Pine / Knife Blade to Fish Creek on the Lochsa River?
About 2 hr in a raft at a typical 4000 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Peak is May–June. Not a tube float. USGS stage at this gauge is not the Lowell Bridge staff — check Lochsa.info for the boater gauge.
How long does it take to float Wilderness Gateway to Lowell on the Lochsa River?
About 2 hr 22 min in a raft at a typical 4000 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. Packed rapids to the Selway confluence. Miss the takeout and you are on the Clearwater.
What USGS gauge is used for Lochsa River float times?
FloatETA uses USGS gauge 13337000 (Lochsa River nr Lowell) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 4000 cfs drift of about 5.5 mph.
Is the Lochsa River 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.