The float is incredibly scenic, with views of the Tobacco Root Mountains and Highwood Mountains, and is generally away from roads and signs of habitation.
Put-in / access: Silver Star Access (45.6819, -112.2853)
Take-out: Parson's Bridge (45.8142, -111.7219)
Difficulty: Class I
Mileage: Varies, up to 60 miles
Season: May through July. Often too low by late August.
Hazards: Diversion dams that must be portaged, logjams, and sweepers.
Permits: None.
Guided trips: No.
Camping: Dispersed camping on BLM islands and state access sites.
- The float is incredibly scenic, with views of the Tobacco Root Mountains and Highwood Mountains, and is generally away from roads and signs of habitation. 2. The river is steeped in history, as Lewis and Clark traveled upstream on it, and it was near here that Sacagawea and the Corps of Discovery met the Shoshone tribe. 3. The river is underutilized, offering solitude and opportunities to see abundant wildlife including deer, herons, waterfowl, and bald eagles.
Visitor Access
- Nearest town: Twin Bridges
- Difficulty: Class I flatwater canoe route (Beginner)
- Season: Optimal paddling is in Spring (April-June) and Fall (September-October). Dewatering can occur in the summer, making fall trips particularly spectacular with changing foliage.
- Mileage: Approximately 15 miles
- Permits & fees: No permits or fees are generally required for paddling the Jefferson River. Some access points on state lands may have fees.
- Hazards: The only major hazard is a diversion dam located just after Parson's Bridge. Paddlers should keep to the left of the river when approaching the bridge and take out on the far side (downstream side, river left) to avoid it.
- Guided trips: Yes - Guided float fishing trips are available from outfitters like Montana Angler, Fishtales Outfitting, and Montana Troutchasers. These are typically full-day trips for one or two anglers.
- Camping: The Jefferson River Canoe Trail includes nine designated camping areas, including four sites on BLM land, two on state lands, and three on private properties. Public lands along the river are designated as leave-no-trace campsites. Dispersed camping is available at Point of Rocks Jefferson River Campsite with both drive-in and boat-in access. Confirm current flows, closures, AIS inspections, and land-manager rules before you put in. Cold water and wood hazards kill—this guide is informational, not instruction.