Current River Conditions

Water Flow

Gain insight into the Missouri River’s current conditions near Fort Benton to optimize your river adventure. Before embarking, assess the river’s flow, as it directly impacts your experience. Check the cubic feet per second (CFS) to gauge the streamflow—visualize it as every cubic feet being basketballs flowing downstream each second.

For the Upper Missouri’s weather, ensure you’re well-prepared for your journey. To make informed decisions, stay updated on the CFS levels, which provide crucial information about the river’s status. For instance, the Marias River is best for spring trips but not suitable below 500 CFS.

The Missouri River’s dynamics vary, making it ideal to float between 4,000 CFS to 30,000 CFS. Higher river levels result in faster currents, allowing for a swifter journey, while lower levels mean a more leisurely pace. Keep an eye on the fluctuating conditions, ensuring your adventure aligns perfectly with the optimal river flow for an unforgettable experience. Check the CFS before you go, and let the rhythm of the river guide your exploration.

 

 

Missouri River at Fort Benton
Missouri River at Virgelle
Missouri River at Kipp
Judith River near Winifred
Marais River near Loma
Marias River at Highway 223

Weather

Weather on the prairie can be really unpredictable as storm pockets have a mind of their own. check out specific locations on the Upper Missouri River to get more accurate weather for your upcoming river voyage.

Fort Benton
Coal Banks
Judith Landing
Kipp

Air Quality

What is the air quality like in the area? Check out this interactive map of air quality. Great map for fire season and smoke.

Interactive air quality map

Astronomy

Eastern Montana skies are spectacular with little to no light pollution and wide-open skies. Catch a Super Moon, meteor showers, the northern lights or an eclipse. 

Fort Benton