Can you swim here today?
West Fork Gallatin River
Big Sky, Montana · River
Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today
Cold waterAs of October 20, 2026, the water temperature at West Fork Gallatin River is 43°F (6°C), measured by USGS gauge 06043120, 4.1 miles away.
Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today: water temperature is 43°F, cold enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden immersion.
- Water temperature is 43°F, cold enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden immersion. — USGS gauge 06043120, as of Oct 20, 3:30 AM gauge-local time
Water temp
43°F
6°C
Streamflow
232 ft³/s
discharge
Gage height
4.81 ft
water level
No official beach-advisory feed for Montana yet — follow posted signs and local guidance.
Live, provisional data from USGS gauge Gallatin River above Deer Creek, near Big Sky, MT (4.1 mi away), as of Oct 20, 3:30 AM gauge-local time.
Before you get in
- Never swim alone — and keep weaker swimmers within arm's reach.
- Scout depth and entry/exit points before you get in.
- Read the current: avoid fast, rising, or murky water.
- Check the forecast — get out well before storms or lightning.
- Obey posted signs, flags, and lifeguard guidance.
Read next
Conditions are for general information only and can change quickly. Always judge the water in person and follow posted advisories and local guidance before swimming or paddling.