MONTANA FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: December 28, 2025

Montana's river enthusiasts should take note of several key streamflow trends that have emerged from recent data. Many of the state's rivers are experiencing fluctuations that could impact recreational activities and water resources. For example, the Missouri River at Toston is flowing at 3,550 cfs, slightly above normal, which may be of interest to those tracking water levels for fishing or boating. Meanwhile, the St. Mary River near Babb shows a significant spike at 1,260 cfs and 373.58% of normal streamflow, pointing to potential flooding concerns. In contrast, several rivers, including the Beaverhead River near Twin Bridges and the Ruby River near Twin Bridges, are reporting lower than normal flows, which could signal early flow drought conditions that merit monitoring.

Specific areas facing notable water level changes include the Jefferson River near Twin Bridges and Three Forks, with streamflows at 1,050 cfs and 1,230 cfs respectively, which are slightly below and above normal. The Madison River system presents mixed conditions; below Hebgen Lake near Grayling, flows are down at 665 cfs, 27.15% below normal. Recreationists are advised to stay updated on the Smith River near Ft. Logan, which has seen a dramatic increase to 127 cfs, possibly affecting the popular whitewater trail there. The Blackfoot River near Bonner is flowing at a healthy 1,520 cfs, aligning closely with its 102% normal flow rate. Conversely, the Sun River near Vaughn is much lower than usual at 271 cfs, 78.88% below normal, indicating flow drought conditions. Lastly, the North Fork Sun River near Augusta has surged to 600 cfs, an impressive 214.33% of the normal flow, which could impact nearby communities and whitewater conditions. Users should be aware of these trends and plan their river activities accordingly, always keeping safety and environmental considerations in mind.

       



Montana has a varied climate and terrain that greatly affects its flow conditions. The state boasts of major rivers such as the Missouri, Yellowstone, and the Clark Fork, which drain into the Mississippi, Missouri, and Columbia Rivers, respectively. Montana also has a number of reservoirs/dams, such as the Fort Peck Dam and the Hungry Horse Dam, which serve as major power sources and water storage for the state. The state's hydrology is influenced by its mountainous terrain, which leads to high precipitation levels and generates snowpacks. These snowpacks, in turn, largely determine the state's flow conditions in the summer months. Montana's flow conditions are also affected by its climate, which is characterized by dry summers and cold winters. Overall, Montana's flow conditions are shaped by a mix of climatic and topographic factors, including watershed, snowpack, and precipitation.


       

Rafting & Kayaking

River Run Status Streamflow (CFS) Air Temp (F)
Alberton Gorge (St. John to Forrest Grove)
Class III to IV
33.44
Bear Creek to Essex
Class II to III+
RUNNABLE 445 55
Beartrap Canyon - Madison Dam to Route 84
Class III to IV
RUNNABLE 1030 46
Bible Run
Class III to IV
RUNNABLE 529 54
Big Creek to Glacier Rim
Class III- to III
RUNNABLE 1380 47
Border to Polebridge
Class II to II+
TOO LOW 432 45
Camp Baker to Eden Bridge
Class II to II+
RUNNABLE 1970 41
Essex to Moccasin Creek
Class II+
RUNNABLE 1290 49
Gardiner Town Run
Class III- to III+
RUNNABLE 1080 43
Glacier RIm to Blankenship Bridge and Confluence
Class II
RUNNABLE 4590 49
Missoula Town Run
Class II to II+
RUNNABLE 958 49
Moccasin Creek to West Glacier (John Stevens Canyon)
Class II+ to III+
RUNNABLE 4310 53
Moose to Storm Castle
Class III+ to IV+
RUNNABLE 308 51
Polebridge to Big Creek
Class II to III-
RUNNABLE 4590 49
Schafer Meadows to Bear Creek (Upper)
Class III+ to IV+
RUNNABLE 4310 53
West Glacier to Blankenship Bridge
Class II+ to III
RUNNABLE 4310 53
Yankee Jim Canyon (Joe Brown to Miner)
Class III to III+
RUNNABLE 1080 43
       
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