Upper Missouri River: Weather, Difficulty & Flow Rates
Weather Information
The main floating season is from mid-June to early September, when the weather is fairly constant. For a period of about four weeks on either side of the main floating season (mid- May to mid-June and mid-September to mid-October) the river can be paddled safely, but additional clothing and equipment are necessary in the event of inclement weather; obviously, these "shoulder seasons" provide a greater amount of solitude, since there are far fewer visitors on the river.
Missouri River Breaks National Monument Weather and Climate
The climate of Central Montana is classified as continental semi-arid, with low annual precipitation (13.5 inches), hot summers, and cold winters. There is typically a large variation between day and night temperatures. The vegetation is mostly grassland, but includes desert plants such as yucca and cactus. Along the Upper Missouri, the riverbank ecosystem supports groves of towering cottonwood trees.
During the main paddling season the weather is typically hot and sunny; temperatures in the 90’s are common, but fortunately humidity is very low. Evening temperatures are normally in the 40’s and 50’s. Spectacular afternoon thunderstorms - sometimes quite violent with strong, gusty winds - are fairly common, but are usually short-lived. If a major weather disturbance moves in, temperatures could drop to the 30’s and 40’s and be accompanied by extended rain, however this is not common. Spring and Fall are considered by some to be the most beautiful times to float the Upper Missouri; the hot days of summer are replaced by cooler temperatures and changes can be more extreme.
June is a terrific month - everything is green, the flowers are blooming, the river is flowing a bit faster, and there is generally less river traffic. However, the weather in Montana is generally less predictable during Spring. Rain is likely and expect to experience the infamous and tenacious Missouri River mud.
July and August are incredibly reliable as far as weather is concerned. It is mostly hot with long days, virtually no bugs, and a bit more river traffic. The heat may be a challenge for some, but also enjoy the opportunity to swim often in the shallow and refreshing river.
September brings the nostalgia of fall colors, low water, less people, a bit shorter days, and, again, chance of inclement weather.
Level of Difficulty
Montana's Upper Missouri River is a Class I river with no rapids, therefore, there is no prior canoeing experience necessary. Our guides are very adept at instructing proper canoe technique and offering advice throughout the trip. Generally, we try to maintain a steady but relaxed paddling pace. As in any wilderness situation, weather can certainly affect the level of difficulty with a headwind being the most formidable opponent to easy downriver progress. Rest assured, we have guided all ages (from 2 years old to 90 years old) with experience levels ranging from complete novice to very experienced. If there were a river to learn on, this would be the one!
In general, the trip is rated moderate-intermediate. The hikes are always options. The guides will thoroughly explain what to expect so you can make a decision whether to relax in camp or participate in the hike.
The Missouri River is very famous for its mud! Depending on the season, river flow rates and camp location, the mud may be tenacious or non-existent. Be prepared to tighten down shoe or sandal straps and tread lightly.
Flow Rates
In general, we consider the Upper Missouri River a ‘moving lake’ and is generally very shallow in spots. However, it doesn’t drain a significant portion of North Central Montana, and, thus, depending on the time of year, the depths vary widely. For this reason, canoes are absolutely the most ideal craft for this river.