Big Hole River river run
Big Hole River
The river can be broken down into different segments, each with its own unique characteristics. The upper stretch of the river, from Wisdom to Melrose, covers approximately 75 miles, and includes Class II rapids and some Class III rapids. The middle stretch of the river, from Glen to Notch Bottom Fishing Access Site, is approximately 30 miles long and has some Class III rapids. The lower stretch of the river, from Notch Bottom Fishing Access Site to the confluence with the Beaverhead River, is approximately 50 miles long and is characterized by swift currents, deep pools, and long riffles.
The Big Hole River has several notable rapids and obstacles, including Bloody Dick Creek, the Narrows, the Notch, and the Maiden Rock Canyon. These rapids are some of the most challenging on the river and require experience and skill to navigate safely.
There are specific regulations in place to protect the Big Hole River and its aquatic life. Fishing regulations include catch and release for trout and a limit on the number of fish that can be caught per day. Additionally, there are restrictions on watercraft use during high water periods to protect the river's banks and prevent erosion.
In conclusion, the Big Hole River is a beautiful and challenging river that offers a range of rapids and obstacles for whitewater enthusiasts. It is important to adhere to the regulations in place to protect the river's ecosystem and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Plan your run down to the hour
Same weather feed Snoflo's iOS app uses -- updated continuously from NOAA / yr.no. Watch the precipitation column on the meteogram; rain ahead of a run typically lifts flows 12-48 hours later depending on the basin.
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind. Each cell is colour-coded relative to the column min/max.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day temperature & precipitation
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks -- the upstream story that drives next week's flows.
Regional streamflow levels
USGS streamgauges around Big Hole River -- useful for spotting upstream pulses and gauging which tributary is contributing what.
| Streamgauge | Discharge | View |
|---|---|---|
| Big Hole River Near Melrose Mt | 1,630 cfs | → |
| Big Hole River Near Glen Mt | 1,590 cfs | → |
| Big Hole River At Maiden Rock Nr Divide Mt | 1,650 cfs | → |
| Beaverhead River Near Twin Bridges Mt | 102 cfs | → |
| Ruby River Near Twin Bridges Mt | 31 cfs | → |
| Jefferson River Near Twin Bridges Mt | 1,770 cfs | → |
Plan a longer trip
The closest boat launches, other paddle runs, and campgrounds so a day on the water can grow into a full weekend.
Campgrounds
Fishing spots
Whitewater safety
- Check the flow before you run
- Use the linked-gauge card and Regional Flow panel above. Class ratings change with flow -- a Class III at low water can become Class IV+ at high water.
- Know your skill ceiling
- Pick runs comfortably below your ceiling. Cold-water and big-water runs raise the consequences of any mistake.
- Wear the right gear
- Helmet, PFD, drysuit / wetsuit when water is below 60°F. Throw bag, knife, and whistle on your person, not in the boat.
- Scout, set safety, and run with a team
- Scout new rapids on foot, set safety with throw bags above the consequence pool, and run with at least one other competent paddler.
- Respect the river
- Strainers, undercuts, low-head dams, and wood can kill at any class rating. When in doubt, portage.
Set push alerts in the Snoflo app
Save Big Hole River as a favorite, set a discharge threshold (e.g. "alert me when flow hits 600 cfs"), and the iOS app pushes the moment the linked gauge crosses.
About Big Hole River
What's the optimal flow for Big Hole River?
The optimal flow depends on the section and the craft. Check the Run Details panel for the linked gauge and current status.
How fresh is the cfs reading on this page?
The linked USGS streamgauge reports continuously (every 15 minutes); Snoflo refreshes throughout the day. Hover the streamflow sparkline to read individual datapoints.
What's the whitewater class?
See the Run Details panel for the class rating Snoflo tracks for this run. Class ratings change with flow -- a Class III at low water can become Class IV in high water.
Where do I put in / take out?
Tap Directions in the hero above to open driving directions to the put-in. For shuttle planning, check the Nearby Boat Launches panel and the river run operator's site.
Can I get alerts when flows hit the optimal range?
Yes -- alerts are managed in the Snoflo iOS app. Favorite this run, set a discharge threshold, and you'll get a push the moment the gauge crosses.
Other runs near here
Snoflo-tracked paddle runs within driving distance of Big Hole River.