Hydrologic Outlook
None

ESFMSO WESTERN MONTANA AND NORTH-CENTRAL IDAHO A prolonged Atmospheric River is expected to impact Western Montana and North-Central Idaho from Monday through Wednesday, bringing moderate to heavy precipitation. Snow levels are anticipated to start around 7,000 feet on Monday before falling to valley floors behind a cold front early Wednesday. The most likely rainfall scenario forecasts 1 to 2 inches for the valleys of Lincoln, Mineral, Sanders in western Montana and Clearwater, and Idaho counties in Idaho. 2 to 3 inches expected in the mountains of northwest Montana and north-central Idaho. Areas further south and east in western Montana will likely see 1 inch or less. A high-end scenario could bring totals 1 to 2 inches higher than the estimates given above. Due to already saturated ground, particularly in northwest Montana, this rainfall increases the risk of rock and landslides, stream and river rises, and minor flooding. Continue to monitor the latest forecast updates as this system approaches.

Essex To Moccasin Creek Paddle Report

Paddle Report

Montana

Last Updated: 2023-06-13

The Essex to Moccasin Creek river run in Montana is a scenic and enjoyable float trip.

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Summary

It is a Class I-II section with occasional Class III rapids. The best time to float is in late spring or early summer when the CFS is around 1,500-2,500. There are a few obstacles such as log jams and shallow sections, but they are easily navigable. The river run is suitable for beginner to intermediate paddlers and offers stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. Overall, it is a great choice for a relaxing day on the water.

River Run Details

Last Updated	2023-06-13
River Levels	1290 cfs (6.15 ft)
Percent of Normal	47%
Optimal Range	1000-9000 cfs
Status	Too Low
Class Level	II+
Elevation	3,586 ft
Run Length	26.0 Mi
Gradient	20 FPM
Streamflow Discharge	361 cfs
Gauge Height	4.7 ft
Reporting Streamgage	USGS 12359800

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Hydrologic Outlook
Until 2025-12-13T11:30:00-07:00 • National Weather Service
ESFMSO WESTERN MONTANA AND NORTH-CENTRAL IDAHO A prolonged Atmospheric River is expected to impact Western Montana and North-Central Idaho from Monday through Wednesday, bringing moderate to heavy precipitation. Snow levels are anticipated to start around 7,000 feet on Monday before falling to valley floors behind a cold front early Wednesday. The most likely rainfall scenario forecasts 1 to 2 inches for the valleys of Lincoln, Mineral, Sanders in western Montana and Clearwater, and Idaho counties in Idaho. 2 to 3 inches expected in the mountains of northwest Montana and north-central Idaho. Areas further south and east in western Montana will likely see 1 inch or less. A high-end scenario could bring totals 1 to 2 inches higher than the estimates given above. Due to already saturated ground, particularly in northwest Montana, this rainfall increases the risk of rock and landslides, stream and river rises, and minor flooding. Continue to monitor the latest forecast updates as this system approaches.

ESSEX TO MOCCASIN CREEK

Paddle Report • Streamflow Levels • Weather Forecast

December 13, 2025

Last Updated	2023-06-13
River Levels	1290 cfs (6.15 ft)
Percent of Normal	47%
Optimal Range	1000-9000 cfs
Status	Too Low
Class Level	II+
Elevation	3,586 ft
Run Length	26.0 Mi
Gradient	20 FPM
Streamflow Discharge	361 cfs
Gauge Height	4.7 ft
Reporting Streamgage	S F Flathead R Ab Twin C Nr Hungry Horse Mt USGS 12359800

Realtime River Levels

S F Flathead R Ab Twin C Nr Hungry Horse Mt
USGS 12359800

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Weather Forecast

Nearby Streamflow Levels

S F Flathead R Ab Twin C Nr Hungry Horse Mt 361.0cfs	361cfs
S F Flathead River Nr Columbia Falls Mt 868.0cfs	868cfs
Middle Fork Flathead River Nr West Glacier Mt 20600.0cfs	20600cfs
Swan River Near Bigfork Mt 1350.0cfs	1350cfs
Flathead River At Columbia Falls Mt 29800.0cfs	29800cfs
N F Flathead River Nr Columbia Falls Mt 9470.0cfs	9470cfs