MONTANA FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Montana's river systems are experiencing an interesting mix of streamflow conditions, as reflected by recent data. In the Many Glacier region, Swiftcurrent Creek is flowing above normal at 122%, but with a significant drop in the last 24 hours, suggesting a transient peak or response to a rapid weather event. The St. Mary River near Babb is notably low at only 19.7% of its normal flow, raising concerns for ecosystems and water availability downstream. Contrastingly, the Sun River near Vaughn and the South Fork Sun River near Augusta are flowing at extremely high levels, with current streamflows at 394.04% and 548.04% of normal, respectively, indicating potential flooding and impacts on the surrounding communities and popular fishing spots. The Smith River, beloved by recreationalists for its scenic floats, has seen dramatic 24-hour increases in streamflow, particularly near Fort Logan, with a 403.97% change, suggesting acute episodes of runoff or rainfall events.

Whitewater enthusiasts and river users should be cautious, as the Blackfoot River near Bonner and the Clark Fork, key rivers for water-based recreation, are both running below normal, at -45.38% and -33.53%, respectively, which may affect the conditions for rafting and fishing. Major watersheds like the Missouri River at Landusky are experiencing higher than average flow, a 32.21% increase, which may benefit some habitats but also pose flood risks. Overall, the variability in river levels, from the drought-affected Beaverhead River to the surging Sun River, suggests that river users should stay informed about the latest conditions and be prepared for rapid changes that can affect safety, access, and water quality.

       



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.


       

Winter Storm Warnings

December 4 2025

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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