The Global Paddling Community

Playspot: USA, Western Montana, Blackfoot, The Ledge

What's it like

A ledge on river right creates a hydraulic anywhere from 8-12 feet wide, and varying radically in strength depending on the flow. You can use this hydraulic to work your way to the actual wave(s) in the center of the channel. Normally, there is one big wave, but two will form at really high water. It is not really worth your effort after the flows drop significantly. The higher the flows, the better.

How to get there

Take the I-90 east from Missoula and follow Highway 200 through Bonner. Turn left at the Johnsrud fishing access signs and continue past the actual access onto a gravel road. About 1/2 mile up, park in the lot on your right. There are steps down to river left across the road.

Locals

The Blackfoot is a II+ river and being so close to Missoula, can be crowded on warm weekends and evenings. However, it is also not uncommon to be the only one here.

The spot is a part of the Blackfoot Recreation Corridor. A lot of private land, but you can use it all up to 50' from the high-water mark. Read the signs in the parking area for more details.

Info sources

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