The Lake Fork of the Gunnison River is off the beaten path with opportunities to enjoy both gentle and more difficult rapids. The upper 25 mile stretch of the river winds through varying landscapes from rocky pine studded hillsides to wide open meadows. Much of this segment flows through adjacent private land. Visitors must take care not to trespass.
Only a few public land areas offer campsites for staying overnight along the river. Alternatively, continue on to the lower, more difficult 5 miles. From fled Bridge Campground to Blue Mesa Reservoir, the river is fast flowing, much more technical, and potentially hazardous. It is only for experienced boaters.
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Access
- Put-in for upper stretch is 5 miles north of Lake City, take-out at the Red Bridge Gate campground. Put-in for the lower stretch is Red Bridge Gate campground, take-out at Gateview, 5 miles downstream.
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Difficulty
- First 25 miles, Class II.
Last 5 miles, Class III - IV.
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Average Gradient
- 4 ft./mi.
44 ft./mi last 5 mi.
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Trip Length
- 5 mi. N of Lake City - Red Bridge 1-2 days, 30 mi.
Red Bridge - Gate View 4 - 5 hours, 5 1/2 mi
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Season
- May to August.
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USGS Maps
- Lake City, Alpine Plateau, Gateview
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Other Notes
- First 30 miles mostly private land. Public land is identified for public use by signs along the river. Current is extremely swift and channel is narrow below Red Bridge campground. Fallen trees can block channel.
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BLM Resource Area Office
- Gunnison Resource Area
- 216 North Colorado
- Gunnison, CO 81230
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