Colorado River near Kremmling
Fishable
Flow529 CFS
Trendstable
Clarityclear
Temp45-55°F
Pat's Rubber Legs #10-14Christensen's SalmonflyExtended Body PMD #16Elk Hair Caddis #12-18
Floating the Upper Colorado in Summer
CO
beginner
Current Conditions
Live flows, verdict, and fishing reportQuick Reference
| What | When | Key Numbers |
|---|---|---|
| Pumphouse to State Bridge | July-Sept | 14 mi; 4-6 hrs; Class I-II; Gold Medal water |
| Ideal floating flows | July-Aug typical | 1,500-3,300 CFS; below 1,000 better for fishing |
| Gold Medal fishing | Year-round (July-Sept prime) | 4,000-5,000 trout/mile; 16-17" common |
| Camping | Reserve via Recreation.gov | Pumphouse $25/night + $10 day use (eff. July 2025) |
| Shuttle | Rancho del Rio | $50-105; vehicles ready by 1pm |
| Guided fishing | Book ahead for July-Aug | $500-650/day; Mountain Angler |
GOOD
Updated 2 days ago
Flows at 529 CFS at the Kremmling gauge as of May 26, easing slightly from 546 CFS on May 25 — runoff plateau after a slow climb from 330 CFS on May 19. Water temp 45-55°F depending on time of day. Water clarity clear per local shops — improved significantly from earlier snowmelt turbidity. Still dramatically below normal for late May (median: 1,620 CFS; typical runoff: 2,000-4,000+ CFS). 2026 flows running at roughly 33% of median. Fishing excellent — fish concentrated and feeding aggressively in the low water. Salmonfly emergence winding down per Cutthroat Anglers and Vail Valley Anglers — adults still present but numbers declining. Golden stonefly emergence now overlapping and becoming the dominant stonefly; hopper-double-dropper rigs with salmonfly dry on top, girdle bug in middle, and perdigon or caddis trailing very productive per Golden Fly Shop. PMDs remain a reliable hatch — Extended Body PMD #16 and Sparkle Dun PMD #18 producing surface takes from 11am-2pm. BWOs steady on overcast afternoons: Film Critic BWO #18-20, Parachute Adams #16-22, Christianson's BWO, Beefus Emerger. Caddis increasingly active on warm afternoons and evenings: Hot Mess Caddis, Double Duck Caddis, Missing Link Caddis #16-18, Elk Hair Caddis #12-18. Midges constant: Zebra Midges #18-22, Black Rainbow Warriors #18-20, Poly Wing RS2 #18-22. Nymphing the most productive method overall: Pat's Rubber Legs #10-14, Mercer's Poxyback Micro Stone #14-18, Jig Hot Butt Hare, Chocolate Thunder, Hare's Ear #14-20, Chronic Caddis (tan/olive) #14-16. Streamers very effective during this hatch period — Dungeons, Heisenbergs, Game Changers, Emma's Mod Maiden, Galloup's Flatliner through deeper pools. Way too low to float (need 1,500+ CFS). Wade fishing outstanding at Pumphouse through Rancho del Rio — historic low water continues to expose rarely accessible structure. Spawning creek closures through May 31 (Grizzly, No Name, Canyon, Elk Creeks). Monitor afternoon water temps — fish stress begins above 65°F. Carry a stream thermometer. Best window 10am-2pm. 5X-6X fluorocarbon tippet; 6X for dries.
🎣 TACTICS RIGHT NOWWade fishing at 529 CFS — flows stabilizing after slow runoff climb. Water temp 45-55°F with clear water. Best window 10am-2pm. Salmonfly emergence winding down but adults still present — fish still eating stonefly dries. Golden stoneflies now overlapping as the dominant stonefly. Hopper-double-dropper rig very effective: salmonfly dry on top, girdle bug in middle, perdigon or caddis trailing. Nymphing the most consistent method: Pat's Rubber Legs #10-14 or Mercer's Poxyback Micro Stone #14-18, trail with Hare's Ear #14-20 or Pheasant Tail #14-20. PMDs producing reliable rises from 11am-2pm: Extended Body PMD #16 or Sparkle Dun PMD #18. BWOs on overcast afternoons: Film Critic BWO #18-20, Christianson's BWO, Parachute Adams #16-22. Caddis increasingly active on warm afternoons and evenings: Elk Hair Caddis #12-18, Hot Mess Caddis, Double Duck Caddis, Missing Link Caddis #16-18. Streamers exceptionally effective during stonefly hatch period — Dungeons, Heisenbergs, Game Changers, Emma's Mod Maiden through deeper pools and undercuts. Clear water means fish are visible but also spookier — move slow, stay low. Monitor afternoon water temps; stop fishing above 65°F. Historically low water with outstanding wade access. 5X-6X fluorocarbon tippet (6X for dries).
Dry Fly
Christensen's SalmonflyHenry's Fork SalmonflyDamien's SUV StoneExtended Body PMD #16Sparkle Dun PMD #18Parawulff PMD #16Film Critic BWO #18-20Christianson's BWO #18-22Beefus Emerger #18-20Parachute Adams #12-22Elk Hair Caddis (olive/brown/yellow) #12-18Hot Mess Caddis #16-18Double Duck Caddis #16-18Missing Link Caddis #16-18Black Sedge Caddis #16-22CDC Baetis Dun #18-22Morgan's CDC Midge #20-24Chubby Chernobyl #10-14Stimulator #8-12Renegade #14-18
Nymph
Pat's Rubber Legs (black/olive/coffee) #10-14Mercer's Poxyback Micro Stone (dark) #14-18TDJ Golden Stone #14-18Jig Hot Butt Hare #14-18Chocolate Thunder #16-20Tungsten Slim Shady BWO #18-20Tungsten Flashback Pheasant Tail #14-20Zebra Midge (olive) #18-22Black Rainbow Warrior #18-20Poly Wing RS2 #18-22Sparkle Wing RS2 (grey/olive) #18-22Hare's Ear #14-20Chronic Caddis (tan/olive) #14-16Graphic Caddis #14-16Taz Devil #12-18Perdigon (purple/pink) #14-20Squirmy WormsRed/Pink Worms
Streamer
Dungeons (cream/black/gray)Rainbow/Black HeisenbergGame ChangersEmma's Mod MaidenGalloup's FlatlinerBarely Legal (white-olive/grey-white)Sparkle MinnowSculpzilla #4-6Baby GongaWoolly Buggers (white/olive/black) #8-12Black Slumpbusters #4-6Leeches (wine/black) #6-8
FORECASTFlows at 529 CFS (May 26), easing slightly from 546 on May 25 after a slow runoff climb from 330 CFS on May 19. River running at roughly 33% of median for this date (median: 1,620 CFS; typical runoff: 2,000-4,000+ CFS). Water clarity now clear — the initial snowmelt pulse has fully cleared. Summer floating window (1,500+ CFS) very unlikely this year barring exceptional monsoon rain; plan exclusively for wade fishing. Salmonfly emergence winding down — adults still present but declining per local shops. Golden stonefly emergence now the dominant stonefly through June. PMDs reliable, caddis increasingly active, BWOs steady on cloudy days. Spawning creek closures lift May 31 (Grizzly, No Name, Canyon, Elk Creeks) — reopening will open additional fishing access. Water temp 45-55°F currently but trending warmer into June. Fish stress begins above 65°F; water temp closures possible by mid-June at these low flow levels. Outfitters planning early-morning-only trips for summer. Carry a stream thermometer. Hopper season likely arriving late May to early June — terrestrials becoming increasingly relevant as grassland warms up. Clear water means stealthier approaches needed. Upside: historically rare wade fishing access with fish concentrated in pools and runs; fishing quality rated excellent by multiple local fly shops.
Overview
The Upper Colorado River from Pumphouse to Dotsero is one of Colorado's best summer float trips. This 60+ mile stretch offers Class I-II water through scenic BLM canyon lands - ideal for family floats, multi-day camping trips, or serious fly fishing.
What sets this section apart: it holds Gold Medal water designation. CPW electrofishing surveys find 4,000-5,000 trout per mile in the Pumphouse to Catamount section, with 16-17 inch fish common. The largest brown ever documented here was 17 pounds.
Summer (July-September) is prime time. Runoff has subsided, flows settle into ideal ranges, and the canyon sees less crowding than Colorado's more famous rivers. The catch: no cell service from Pumphouse through the canyon, so plan accordingly.
Flow Windows
Understanding flows is essential for timing your trip. Check Colorado River flows near Kremmling before launching.
| Flow (CFS) | Conditions |
|---|---|
| Under 600 | Low water - scraping likely, slower float, some portaging possible |
| 600-1,000 | Prime fishing flows - Class II rapids become gentler Class I-II, excellent wade access |
| 1,000-1,500 | Low-normal floating - relaxed pace, some shallow spots |
| 1,500-3,300 | Ideal floating range - good current, Class II rapids run clean |
| 3,300-5,500 | Higher water - faster, more technical, experienced paddlers only |
| Over 5,500 | High water - bridge clearance issues at second bridge, significant hazards |
The ideal floating window of 1,500-3,300 CFS typically occurs from late June through mid-August. By late August and September, flows often drop below 1,000 CFS - still floatable but slower, with better fishing conditions.
Key Sections
Pumphouse to Radium (4 miles)
The most popular short float, taking 2-2.5 hours at typical summer flows.
Rapids:
- Wake Up Rapid (Class II) - straightforward warm-up at river mile 1
- Needle's Eye (Class II) - the signature rapid with a narrow chute through a rock garden. Scout from river-left if unfamiliar.
- Mary's Wall - immediately after Needle's Eye, the river pushes right into a cliff. Stay left at all water levels.
Takeout bonus: Radium Hot Springs and Jump Rock are at the takeout - natural warm springs tucked against a popular cliff jumping spot.
Radium to Rancho del Rio (6 miles)
Longer section through the canyon with consistent riffles and a more remote feel. Takes 3-4 hours.
Rapids:
- Red Eye Rapid (Class II-III at higher flows) - most significant feature in this section
- Yarmony (Hoyt) Rapid (Class II, up to III at 2,500+ CFS) - the most consequential rapid on the upper stretch. At higher flows, a large boulder creates a hole that can flip rafts. Stay center-right to avoid the hole.
Nine on-river primitive campsites are available first-come, first-served through this section.
Rancho del Rio to State Bridge (4 miles)
The mellower finish to a Pumphouse-State Bridge day float. Mostly Class I-II water. Takes 1.5-2 hours.
Total Pumphouse to State Bridge: 14 miles, 4-6 hours depending on flow and fishing stops.
State Bridge to Dotsero (45 miles)
The lower stretch sees far less traffic and is typically done as a multi-day trip. Character changes to wider, mellower water through ranch country.
| Section | Distance | Float Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| State Bridge to Catamount | 16 miles | 6-7 hours | Class I-II, mellow, great camping |
| Catamount to Pinball | 9 miles | 4-5 hours | Remote, Bull Gulch WSA |
| Pinball to Dotsero | 20 miles | 8-10 hours | Long day or split into two |
Rapids Below State Bridge:
- Windy Point (Class II) - only named rapid in the upper portion
- Alkali (Class II) - below Catamount
- Landslide/Rodeo Rapid (Class III) - solid drop, easy to scout from road if needed
- Pinball Rapid (Class III) - fun wave train
- Twin Bridges (Class II+) - marks end of the scenic canyon stretch
Why do the lower stretch? Solitude. You'll likely have the river to yourself, and the camping at Jacks Flat is considered by many the best on the entire Upper C - a quiet site with a natural berm blocking road and railroad noise.
Access Points & Logistics
All access points are managed by BLM Kremmling Field Office. Note: New fee structure takes effect July 7, 2025.
Pumphouse Recreation Site (Primary Put-in)
- Three boat ramps (Launch 3 is ADA accessible)
- 18 individual campsites - $25/night (reservations required via Recreation.gov)
- 2 group campsites - $75/night
- Vault toilets, drinking water (summer only - not always operational)
- Day-use parking: $10 per vehicle (vehicle season pass: $50)
- Camp host on-site during summer
- No cell service - Kremmling (15 miles) is nearest town for supplies
Radium Recreation Site
- Mid-river access with two launch areas
- 9 standard campsites - fees similar to Pumphouse
- Good swimming at Radium Hot Springs adjacent to takeout
Rancho del Rio
- Private lodge/campground with river access
- Restaurant, general store, cabins
- Shuttle service available (see below)
State Bridge
- Concert venue and lodge with restaurant, cabins, general store
- Day-use: $10 per vehicle
- Paved boat ramp
- 14 miles from I-70 (Wolcott Exit #157)
Lower Section Access (State Bridge to Dotsero)
Six BLM-maintained access points allow trip customization:
- Catamount - vault toilet, fire rings, picnic tables
- Pinball Point - similar facilities
- Windy Point - camping with toilet and fire rings
- Cottonwood & Lyons Gulch - developed campsites
- Jacks Flat - wilderness-style camping (bring your own toilet system)
- Dotsero - final takeout before Glenwood Canyon
Getting There
From Denver (2 hours): I-70 west to Exit 205 (Silverthorne), Highway 9 north through Kremmling, then Trough Road (County Road 1) west for 10 miles to Pumphouse.
From Vail (45 minutes): I-70 to Exit 157 (Wolcott), Highway 131 north for 12 miles to State Bridge.
Road conditions: Trough Road is maintained gravel, passable for most vehicles in dry conditions. Can get rough after rain - high clearance helpful but not required.
Shuttle Services
Most floaters run a two-vehicle shuttle. If you only have one vehicle:
Rancho del Rio - (970) 653-4431
- Shuttles from Pumphouse to State Bridge and other combinations
- $50-105 depending on route
- Vehicles must be at put-in by 1:00pm for same-day service
- Book online at ranchodelrio.com
AVA Rafting - coloradorafting.net
- Shuttle service from Kremmling outpost
- Add to raft rental bookings
Tip: Day-use fees apply at both put-in and take-out, including shuttled vehicles.
BLM Contact: Kremmling Field Office - (970) 724-3027
Summer Fly Fishing
The Upper Colorado fishes well all summer, with different patterns emerging as conditions change.
July: Post-Runoff Prime Time
Water clarity improves dramatically once runoff subsides. Golden Stoneflies follow the salmonfly hatch, with peak activity in the first two weeks of July. This is arguably the best month for dry fly fishing.
Key Hatches:
- Golden Stoneflies (#8-12) - fish dries and nymphs
- Yellow Sallies (#14-16) - Mercers Micro Stone
- Caddis (#14-18) - evening hatches produce rising fish
- PMDs (#16-18) - late morning to early afternoon
August: Hopper Season
As flows drop below 1,000 CFS, the river reveals rock gardens and sandy bars perfect for hopper-dropper rigs. Fish move into shallower water along willow-lined banks.
Key Hatches:
- Terrestrials (hoppers, beetles, ants) - work the banks
- Yellow Sallies continue
- Caddis (#16-18) - consistent evening activity
- Tricos (#20-24) - early morning spinners
September: Fall Transition
Cooler nights trigger renewed mayfly activity. Brown trout become more aggressive as spawn approaches.
Key Hatches:
- BWOs (#18-22) - afternoon hatches on cloudy days
- Streamers become increasingly effective
- Midges (#20-24) - consistent subsurface food source
Fly Box Essentials
Dries:
- Elk Hair Caddis (#14-18, tan and olive)
- Yellow Stimulator (#14-16)
- Schroeder's Parachute Hopper (#8-12)
- Parachute Adams (#16-20)
- Chubby Chernobyl (#10-14)
Nymphs:
- Pat's Rubberlegs (#6-10, black/brown)
- Pheasant Tail (#16-18)
- Hare's Ear (#14-16)
- RS2 (#18-22)
- Zebra Midge (#18-22)
Streamers:
- Woolly Bugger (#6-10, olive and black)
- Slumpbuster (#4-6)
- Sculpzilla (#4-6)
Wade vs. Float Fishing
Float fishing covers more water and accesses private stretches between public access points. Best when flows are 800-2,000 CFS.
Wade fishing becomes excellent as flows drop below 1,000 CFS in late summer. Rock gardens and gravel bars emerge, allowing access to runs that were unreachable earlier. Best access points for wading:
- Below Pumphouse boat ramp
- Radium area
- BLM pullouts along Trough Road between State Bridge and Catamount
Best Times of Day
- Early morning (6-9am): Cooler water, active fish, Trico spinners in August
- Late morning (10am-noon): PMD activity, comfortable air temps
- Evening (6-8pm): Caddis hatches, rising fish, best dry fly window
Water Temperature Warning: Stop fishing when water temps reach 68°F. Trout become stressed above 65°F and mortality risk increases even with careful handling. Carry a stream thermometer - afternoon temps can spike during July heat waves.
Hazards
High Water (Flows above 3,300 CFS)
- At flows over 5,500 CFS, you cannot float under the second bridge
- Yarmony Rapid becomes a serious Class III with a boat-flipping hole
- Cold water persists even when air temps are warm
- Faster current means less reaction time for obstacles
Strainers (Downed Trees)
Strainers accumulate on outside bends after high water events. Scout any unfamiliar sections. If swimming and you can't avoid a strainer, turn onto your stomach and climb up and over - never swim underneath.
Weather
Afternoon thunderstorms are common July-August. Plan to be off the water by early afternoon if storms are forecast. Lightning is the primary danger.
No Cell Service
There's no cell coverage from Pumphouse through the canyon to State Bridge. Plan accordingly:
- Tell someone your float plan and expected return
- Bring a satellite communicator (Garmin InReach) for emergencies
- Know basic self-rescue techniques
Overnight Trip Requirements
For on-river camping, BLM requires:
- Fire pan for any campfires
- Leak-proof human waste containment system (WAG bags)
- Pack out all trash
Gear Recommendations
Floating Essentials
- Coast Guard-approved PFD for each person
- Dry bag for valuables and dry clothes
- Water and snacks (plan for full-day hydration)
- Sun protection - hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses
- River sandals or water shoes
- Throw rope (50+ feet)
Fishing Gear
- 9' 5-weight rod (good all-around choice)
- 9' 4-weight for dry fly work in late summer
- Floating line with 9' 4X-5X leader
- Stream thermometer
- Waders for early morning/cool days (late summer you can wet wade)
Multi-Day Additions
- Fire pan
- WAG bags or portable toilet system
- Water filter
- Tent, sleeping gear
- Cooler for food (dry ice lasts longer than regular ice)
- Camp chair
- Headlamp
- Bug spray (mosquitoes can be heavy at Jacks Flat)
Seasonal Summary
| Month | Typical Flows | Conditions | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Late June | 2,000-3,500 CFS | Dropping from runoff | Experienced floaters, late salmonflies |
| July | 1,200-2,500 CFS | Prime floating | Everyone - best balance of current and safety |
| August | 600-1,200 CFS | Lower, slower | Fishing, families, multi-day trips |
| September | 400-800 CFS | Low water | Wade fishing, fall colors, solitude |
The Upper Colorado has a longer season than many Colorado rivers, often remaining floatable into late September when other rivers have dropped too low.
Guided Options
Rafting Outfitters
AVA Rafting - coloradorafting.net
- Operates from Kremmling outpost
- Half-day scenic floats, ages 2+
- Raft rentals from $199
Colorado River Rentals - coloradoriverrentals.com
- Self-guided raft rentals with shuttle service
Rancho del Rio - ranchodelrio.com
- Shuttle service and trip support
Fly Fishing Guides
Mountain Angler (Breckenridge) - mountainangler.com
- Permitted on 50+ miles from Pumphouse to Dotsero
- Exclusive access at Yellow Dog Ranch
Kirks Flyshop (Grand Lake) - kirksflyshopgrandlake.com
- Half-day ($500) and full-day ($650) float trips
- All gear provided including lunch on full days
Vail Valley Anglers - vailvalleyanglers.com
- Detailed fishing reports on current conditions
Using RiverReports
Plan your trip with real-time data:
- Colorado River near Kremmling - primary gauge for this stretch
- Compare current flows to seasonal averages
- Set flow alerts to know when conditions hit your target window
- Check the 7-day forecast to time your trip
The Upper Colorado's natural flow pattern means conditions can change more quickly than dam-controlled rivers. Check flows within 24-48 hours of your trip, not just a week out.
For June floating during runoff season, see our Upper Colorado June Guide. For statewide conditions, visit Colorado rivers.
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