Below Missoula the Clark Fork drops into a canyon gorge known as Alberton Gorge named for the town at the head of the run. I-90 parallels this run but from the river you won't notice it much. This is where you will see lots of Missoula boaters since the whitewater action is close by and this run is doable year round.
Higher flows brings very powerful water and class IV conditions and at normal to lower flows the run loses some of its bite and calms down to class III. If you find yourself on I-90 passing through Missoula this run is worth the stop. If you are a local you can find fun rafting hits and kayak surfing throughout the gorge.
Class | III to IV |
Current Flow |
2290.0 CFS 12-04-2024 11:45 View River Forecast |
Recommended Flow |
Minimum: 1000.0 Average: 10000.0 Maximum: 20000.0 |
Typical Season |
Begins: January Ends: December |
Recommended Use |
Kayaking: Yes Rafting: Yes Canoeing: No SUP: No Packrafting: No Fishing: No |
Primary Gauge | Clark Fork at St. Regis MT |
Length | 18.0 Mile(s) |
Gradient | 15.0 FPM |