FloatETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 06090800 (Missouri at Fort Benton), not a guidebook average. At a typical 6,000 cfs, a raft drifts about 2.8 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.
This is a multi-day wilderness float. Plan shuttles, permits, and camps — the calculator shows total hours on the water, not a same-day take-out.
The Missouri River (Breaks) listing covers 149 river miles across 1 access-to-access stretch (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 Missouri River (Breaks) float time
Float stretches on the Missouri River (Breaks)
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Benton → Judith Landing | 149 mi | Class I | ~2.2 days | BLM Wild & Scenic. Typically 3–4 days. Coal Banks is a common midway access. Shuttle is serious — plan it. |
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 06090800.
Common questions
How long does it take to float Fort Benton to Judith Landing on the Missouri River (Breaks)?
About 2.2 days in a raft at a typical 6000 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Stopping to fish adds about 35 minutes per mile. BLM Wild & Scenic. Typically 3–4 days. Coal Banks is a common midway access. Shuttle is serious — plan it.
What USGS gauge is used for Missouri River (Breaks) float times?
FloatETA uses USGS gauge 06090800 (Missouri at Fort Benton) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 6000 cfs drift of about 2.8 mph.
Is the Missouri River (Breaks) 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.