Elk Creek (Swan Trib)
Hike In
| Difficulty | IV-V |
| Length | 6 mi |
| Avg Gradient | n/a |
| Gauge | Mission Creek Ab Reservoir Nr St. Ignatius Mt |
| Flow Rate as of 55 minutes | 120 cfsbelow recommended |
| Reach Info Last Updated | June 3, 2019 |
Projects
Wild rivers and their enthusiasts got some good news with the release of the new 15-20 year Forest plan for the Flathead National Forest late in 2018. The decision newly protected 22 streams as eligible for Wild and Scenic designation (284 river miles), based in large part on the [...]Read More
River Description
Elk Creek is a remote Wilderness adventure requiring a significant hike up a remote and spectacular valley. The whitewater is comprised of three distinct sets of Class IV and V whitewater seperated by meandering sections flowing through open meadows. The whitewater is a mix of quality boulder and bedrock rapids, and portaging is reasonable as needed. Expect some wood portages, but as of 2012 these were not excessive. There is no trail along the creek, so once you drop in you are on your own in a very wild valley. Bring your bear spray.
River Features
Put In
Hike up! There is a trail on river left well above the river, and it is paddler's choice where to head down to the water.
Take Out
Trip Reports
Log in to add a reportA successful exploratory descent of Elk Creek. A highlight of the day was seeing a bull elk in velvet standing unconcerned along the creek. It was a great day in the mountains.