Flathead River Patrol Reports

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North Fork Road and Access Site Work

Improvements to several Wild and Scenic River Access sites along the North Fork River as well as brushing and road reconditioning work may cause delays this summer beginning June 17. Be prepared for delays of up to an hour along the North Fork Road (County Road #486) from Red Meadow to the Ford River Access site.

 

Note: Be aware that river conditions can change rapidly depending on weather and other factors. These condition reports are for reference only, and are not authoritative guides.

Cubic Feed per Second (CFS) and Water Depth are based on USGS Survey Stations near the river segment. Current stream-flow data can be found at NOAA's Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service.

How to Read the Hydrograph

 

Middle Fork Flathead River

Middle Fork CFS and Water Depth from the USGS Survey Station at West Glacier (123585000)
Date (2023) Put-In Take Out Length (mi.) Float Time (hrs) CFS Water Depth (ft) Observed Conditions
September 8, 2023 Blankenship House of Mystery 11 3.5 1120 2.33

Moderate Flows:

  • Water clear, little to no debris present.
  • Many obstacles/rock bars exposed.
  • Navigable channel generally available, unlikely craft will need to be pushed. 
  • Strong hydraulic effects in few locations. 

 

 

North Fork Flathead River

North Fork CFS and Water Depth from the USGS Survey Station at Columbia Falls (123555000)
Date (2023) Put-In Take Out Length (mi.) Float Time (hrs) CFS Water Depth (ft) Observed Conditions
August 26, 2023 Great Northern Flats Blankenship 11 4.5 685 1.75

Low-Moderate Flow: 

  • Water clear, little to no debris present.
  • Many rocks/obstacles/rock bars exposed.
  • Heavy craft may need to be pushed in some sections.
  • Slow water, reduced hydraulic effects.