* WHAT...Snow. A lull in precipitation is expected through 2 pm. Then moderate to heavy snow showers are expected. Snow rates of 0.50 to 1 inch per hour possible along with wind gusts up to 40 mph. * WHERE...North of Hamilton in the Bitterroot Valley and Missoula. * WHEN...Until 11 PM MST this evening. * IMPACTS...Winter traveling conditions. For MINOR winter weather impacts, expect a few inconveniences to normal activities. Use caution while driving. The hazardous conditions could impact the Friday morning and evening commutes, especially over higher passes.
The ideal streamflow range for this run is between 500 and 2,500 cubic feet per second (cfs), with higher flows creating more challenging rapids. The segment covers a distance of approximately 10 miles and is rated as Class III-IV, with several difficult rapids and obstacles including "Pinball," "The S-Turn," and "The Ledge."
Specific regulations to the area include permits, which are required for commercial outfitters and guides. Private boaters are also required to have a permit, which can be obtained through a lottery system. Additionally, there are restrictions on camping, fires, and human waste disposal within 200 feet of the river.
According to the Montana Whitewater website, this segment of the Whitewater River Run "offers a great combination of scenery, whitewater, and wilderness adventure." However, it is important for paddlers to have experience with Class III-IV rapids and to take proper safety precautions, including wearing appropriate gear and running the rapids with a partner.
Overall, the Spring Gulch Headwaters to Mainstem segment of the Whitewater River Run is a challenging and scenic destination for experienced whitewater enthusiasts, with specific regulations in place to protect the area and ensure visitor safety.
| Last Updated | 2025-12-03 |
| River Levels | 7940 cfs (5.9 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 69% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 12340500 |
Clark Fork Above Missoula Mt
|
1110cfs |
Bitterroot River Near Missoula Mt
|
1020cfs |
Clark Fork Below Missoula Mt
|
2290cfs |
Blackfoot River Near Bonner Mt
|
382cfs |
Clark Fork At Turah Bridge Nr Bonner Mt
|
706cfs |
South Fork Jocko River Near Arlee Mt
|
83cfs |
Spring Gulch Headwaters, Sec. 12, T14N, R19W To Mainstem, Sec. 35, T14N, R19W
Mainstem Headwaters, Sec. 4, T15N, R18W To Boundary, Sec. 2, T13N, R18W
Missoula Town Run
East Fork Headwaters, Sec. 8, T14N, R17W To Mainstem, Sec. 14, T14N, R18W
High Falls Creek Headwaters, Sec. 5, T14N, R18W To Mainstem, Sec. 2, T14N, R18W
Lake Creek Headwaters, Sec. 30, T15N, R18W To Mainstem, Sec. 21, T15N, R18W