Clark Fork
Johnsrud Park to PaddleHeads Stadium(Missoula Town Run)
| Difficulty | II |
| Length | 7.8 mi |
| Avg Gradient | n/a |
| Gauge | Clark Fork Above Missoula Mt |
| Flow Rate as of 24 minutes | 3740 cfsmedium runnable |
| Reach Info Last Updated | March 22, 2026 |
For over 70 years, the Clark Fork River was used as the dumping ground for the waste from one of the largest mining ventures on earth. The companies operating the mines and smelters in Butte and Anaconda unloaded metals-laced tailings directly into the headwaters of the Clark Fork River. [...]Read More
The section from the former Milltown Dam through downtown Missoula is a nice class II float but many come just to enjoy Brennan's Wave at Caras Park. This wave was a replacement for an old diversion weir that was a safety hazard. The site now provides a great recreational amenity for the community. To reach the wave take Missoula's Orange Street Exit off I-90. Head south a few blocks and take a left on Front Street before you cross the river. Take this a block and turn right onto Ryman and the entrance to Caras Park. The wave is located in the park on the downstream river right side of the Higgins Ave. Bridge.
With the removal of Milltown Dam, the confluence where the Blackfoot joins the Clark Fork can now be enjoyed by the public at Milltown State Park that was formally opened to the public in 2018. Access available for hand carry boats.
Access piont with parking and easy access to the river that accomodates trailered boats.
A wave train that can get relatively strong at certain flows.
Named for Brennan Guth, a Missoula-native and world-class kayaker who died paddling in Chile in 2001, this man-made park-and-play feature in the heart of downtown Missoula has good spectator opportunities and convenient access to all the amenities of the city.
Convenient hand-carry access in the park adjacent to Brenan's Wave on river right in town.
Access suitable for rafts or other trailed boats on river left.
Jul 27, 2007
New online guide for Montana area whitewater - check it out!
www.montanaeddyhop.blogspot.com
Mar 6, 2007
For More info and photos of Brennans Wave and paddling in the Missoula Area check out my website www.infinitymountain.com.
