The Clarks Fork Yellowstone River commands respect, and no section embodies its wild spirit more than the Styx and Stones stretch. Running between the Chief Joseph Trailhead and Fox Creek Campground, this 5.2-mile course is pure adrenaline—a relentless string of steep drops and tight waterfalls that push paddlers to their limits. Rated Class V+, it features a staggering average gradient of 210 feet per mile, meaning every moment on the water demands razor-sharp focus and confident skill. You’re not just floating downriver; you’re locked in close combat with the river’s raw energy.

From the outset, the river announces its intensity with rapid sequences punctuated by powerful waterfalls ranging from 12 to 25 feet. The run is a pulse-quickening blend of pool-drop corridors, where deep, clear pools offer brief sanctuaries packed with wild trout, followed by sudden, unforgiving cascades. The emerald water contrasts with the rugged granite cliffs and dense forest framing the channel, while craggy peaks loom overhead. Every rapid dares you forward, but also warns to watch your line—one missed eddy could mean serious trouble.

Despite its proximity to the road, Styx and Stones feels remote. This is a place where nature holds the upper hand, evident in the number of mandatory portages around dangerous sieves and life-threatening drops. Paddlers must be vigilant, scouting frequently and respecting the river’s moods. The final half-mile offers fast, continuous Class IV-V whitewater—a relentless crescendo before you finally reach the calmer margins at Fox Creek.

Beyond the rapids, the forest breathes; it’s grizzly country, so stay alert. Thick underbrush and clouds of mosquitoes add to the challenge, reminding adventurers this run is earned as much through patience as prowess. The rewards? Stunning waterfalls, pristine mountain water, and a sense of stepping into a raw, powerful landscape few dare to test.

Practical notes: come early in the day to catch the best light and avoid peak insect activity. Bring sturdy footwear for portages, plenty of hydration, and the Montana Surf Guidebook for insider information. For those ready to push their skills against one of Montana’s most demanding runs, Styx and Stones offers a whitewater experience that is as pure as it is punishing.