The Smith River is known for its spectacular scenery and renowned trout fishing.
Put-in / access: Camp Baker (46.7458, -111.1619)
Take-out: Eden Bridge (47.2214, -111.2342)
Difficulty: Class I-II
Mileage: 59 miles
Season: May through early July. Flows drop too low by late summer.
Hazards: Sharp bends, sweepers, and shallow gravel bars.
Permits: YES. This is a highly restricted permit lottery system managed by Montana FWP. Applications are due in February.
Guided trips: Yes, by authorized outfitters only.
Camping: Designated boat camps only. You must select your camps at the put-in.
Visitor Access
- Nearest town: White Sulphur Springs
- Difficulty: Class I-II
- Season: Typical float season runs from mid-April through mid-July, with occasional opportunities in September and October.
- Mileage: 59 miles
- Permits & fees: A permit is required year-round to float the Smith River, obtained through an annual lottery system. Payment of float fees is also required.
- Hazards: No public services are available between Camp Baker and Eden Bridge. Floaters must pack out all human waste using agency-approved, portable, hard-sided toilets. Potential hazards include strainers and tight turns with cliff walls.
- Guided trips: Yes, commercial outfitting is restricted to authorized Smith River outfitters. Examples include Yellow Dog Flyfishing and Glacier Guides.
- Camping: Overnight camping must take place at designated boat camps along the river. Camp Baker (put-in) is day-use only, with overnight camping permitted only from September 1 to November 30. 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.