Missouri River Float from Craig, MT to Mountain Palace
Added 2021-07-14
Quick Summary
- This requires two vehicles to coordinate or someone to drop you off where you want to put in
- You can choose how long of a float you want to do - this float is about 6 hours long, but any fishing access or parking along Recreation Rd will work as a pull-out point.
- There is SO MUCH wildlife to see along the river.
- There are strong undertows in the Missouri in several places - wear a life vest if you are not comfortable or prepared.
Photos
Story
The Craig, MT to Mountain Palace Boat Launch is a full-day float that will introduce you to the best of the Missouri River Canyon. It is a beautiful float with lots of wildlife - eagles, deer, bears, raccoons, river otters, beavers, rainbow trout, turtles, bighorn sheep, crawdads, etc. There are no rapids in this section of the river, making it a perfectly relaxing and safe (if common sense is utilized) float. This is best done in the months of June, July and August. Any earlier and the current will be a bit too strong and the river too cold. There is parking and a pit toilet at the Craig boat launch as well as a last-chance opportunity to buy snacks or sunscreen in the small town. You will need to leave one vehicle at your put-out site on your way up Recreation Road so you can retrieve your launch vehicle. To cut this trip down by a couple hours to a half-day float, you can launch at the Dearborn Boat Launch which will make the float 3-4 hours long. Camping is available at many of the boat launches along Recreation Road.