2025-12-06T14:00:00-07:00
...SERIES OF WINTER STORMS TO AFFECT THE MOUNTAINS AND PASSES THROUGH THE SATURDAY... .The first round of heavy snow is expected to last through early Friday morning and will primarily focus on the mountains of central and southwest Montana with 4 to 8 inches possible along the mountain passes including Bozeman and Kings Hill Pass. A period of lighter snowfall is expected Friday morning and afternoon. The second and more widespread round of heavier snowfall is expected to arrive Friday evening and continue into Saturday evening with an additional 6 to 12 inches possible over the passes and higher amounts above pass level. * WHAT...Heavy snow expected. Snowfall totals between 8 and 12 inches at pass level and up to 24 inches above pass level. Winds gusting as high as 45 mph. * WHERE...Big Belt, Bridger and Castle Mountains, Little Belt and Highwood Mountains, and Gallatin and Madison County Mountains and Centennial Mountains. * WHEN...Until 2 PM MST Saturday. * IMPACTS...Travel could be very difficult and tire chains may be required for some vehicles. Those in the backcountry should ensure they are prepared for dangerous conditions. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Significant travel impacts to the Thursday and Friday commutes are possible for Bozeman Pass and along Highway 191 south of Bozeman.
Summary
The ideal streamflow range for rafting is between 2,000 and 8,000 cubic feet per second (cfs). The river is rated as a class II-III, which means the rapids are moderate in difficulty and require basic skills to navigate.
The river has a segment mileage of approximately 70 miles, and the most popular section for whitewater rafting is the 10-mile stretch between Lyon Bridge and McAtee Bridge. This section includes rapids such as House Rock, Kitchen Sink, and the famous Bear Trap.
The Bear Trap rapid is a class III+ rapid that requires precise maneuvering to avoid a large boulder in the middle of the river. The river also has other obstacles such as strainers and sweepers that should be avoided to ensure safety.
The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks has specific regulations for the Madison River. All boats must have a valid Montana Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Pass, and all anglers must have a valid Montana fishing license. Additionally, there are specific regulations for the use of motorized boats and the catch-and-release of certain fish species.
Overall, the Madison River provides a thrilling whitewater experience with beautiful scenery in the state of Montana. It is important to follow all regulations and safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
River Run Details
| Last Updated | 2025-06-28 |
| River Levels | 3210 cfs (4.03 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 56% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | ii-iii |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 06043500 |
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
LEE METCALF WILDERNESS
|
||
TRAPPER SPRINGS REC SITE
|
||
Spanish Creek Cabin
|
Montana Highway 84 Madison County
WARM SPRINGS DAY USE
POWER HOUSE BOAT LAUNCH
FALL CREEK DAY USE
CANADAY BOAT LAUNCH
Madison River