...ATMOSPHERIC RIVER TO BRING SIGNIFICANT MOUNTAIN SNOW... .A plume of subtropical moisture associated with an atmospheric river will bring significant mountain snow Thursday into Friday. Snow levels will rise above 5,000 feet Thursday night before quickly dropping Friday morning as strong cold front passes. The heaviest snow accumulations will impact higher elevations above 6,000 feet, especially across the Clearwater and Bitterroot Mountains. * WHAT...Snow expected. There is a likelihood of moderate to isolated major winter weather impacts. Total snow accumulations between 6 and 12 inches from Essex to Marias Pass. Total snow accumulations of 2 and 4 inches for lower elevations, including West Glacier. Winds gusting as high as 45 mph. * WHERE...Marias Pass, Essex, Polebridge, Glacier National Park, Bad Rock Canyon, and Highway 83 Bigfork to Swan Lake. * WHEN...From 1 PM this afternoon to 11 AM MST Saturday. * IMPACTS...For MODERATE winter weather impacts, expect disruptions to normal activities. Hazardous traveling conditions. Use extra caution while driving. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Snow levels will briefly rise above 4,500 feet Thursday night before dropping below 3,000 feet Friday morning as a cold front passes.
The river has several technical sections with obstacles like boulders, drops, and narrow channels, which require precise maneuvering. The best time to float this section is from May to July when the water levels are high, around 1,500-2,000 cfs. This river run is suitable for intermediate paddlers with previous whitewater experience. Overall, the Big Creek to Glacier Rim river run offers a thrilling adventure through a picturesque Montana landscape.
| Last Updated | 2023-06-13 |
| River Levels | 1380 cfs (4.76 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 35% |
| Optimal Range | 1000-11000 cfs |
| Status | Runnable |
| Class Level | III- to III |
| Elevation | 3,049 ft |
| Run Length | 8.0 Mi |
| Streamflow Discharge | 4440 cfs |
| Gauge Height | 7.3 ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 12362500 |