Gunnison Gorge-Colorado

Black Canyon National Park’s GUNNISON GORGE
"THE BABY GRAND"     14  miles     Class II - Class III

It is a hidden jewel, off the beaten path, tucked deep in steep granite walls. The Gunnison River is a sportsman's and paddler's paradise.  The clear, cold waters of the Gunnison have been designated a Gold Medal Trout Fishery.  Its narrow river corridor creates exciting whitewater action on a river that is part of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

Accessible only by foot or horseback, the Gunnison Gorge is a wilderness canyon for those who are willing to literally go the extra mile.  A trip to the canyon floor requires a hike of one mile down a steep trail.  Guests are expected to carry their personal gear in packs provided by us.  With every step, the wilderness feeling deepens.  The solitude and scenery found at the canyon floor make the hike down worth every step.  Enter the wilderness world of the Gunnison Gorge for a trip of one to three days.

Gunnison Gorge-Colorado - Colorado - Gunnison River - Gunnison Gorge- Black Canyon of the Gunnsion National Park
FISHING
Designated a Gold Medal Trout fishery, the Gunnison is one of those legendary stretches that is known throughout the west.  Avid anglers speak about this one in whispers around the campfire.  "The Home of Lunker Trout" it offers both Browns and Rainbows. The Giant Stone Fly Hatch is booked nearly a year in advance.  
The primary reason for this reputation is the river's inaccessibility.  There are only three trails leading into the Gunnison Gorge giving access to approximately one mile of bank fishing at each trail head.  The only way to fish the entire corridor is float fishing.  Our CUSTOM fishing trips put two anglers and one guide in each raft.  This allows you to fish downstream at your own pace.  To allow for adequate time for fishing and full enjoyment of the canyon, it is best to plan a three day trip. Special regulations are in effect to protect the fishery which allows only one fish over 16" and two under 12" to be kept.   Fly and lures only.  We encourage everyone to catch and release.  A valid Colorado fishing license is required.  
“We also set up custom trout fishing trips in Wyoming, Idaho and throughout Colorado on some of the best trout rivers in the U.S.”  (Request more information on these trips).  
See special fishing sheets for custom trips, type of flies, etc.

CAMPING
Campsites on the Gunnison Gorge are limited and often compact.  Most have interesting side canyon hikes nearby and all are well kept wilderness sites.
On trips with our river guides will provide instruction about disposal of human waste, the disposal of different types of trash, and other camp practices.  Minimum-impact camping practices have enhanced these sites and you'll see few reminders other than foot prints of previous visitors.  

Tents and Sleeping bag kits can be provided. Additional Rental cost.  

Provide own tackle and Colorado license required.
Includes:  All meals, rafting equipment and related equipment. Transportation by us from Montrose,CO or Gunnison Forks Park

GUNNISON LAUNCH DATES FOR 2006
May 14,21,27,30   June 3,4,9,12,14,18,24,   July 2,9,12,15,23,26
Aug 9,12,23,27,31    Sept 3,6,9,13,17,20,23

DEPOSIT  REQUIREMENTS
A minimum advance deposit of $100 or 25% of trip cost per person (whichever is greater) is required when making reservations.  The total is due 45 days prior to trip.