Gunnison between North Fork and Smith River, CO

This Description is meant to serve as a guide for gaining wading access to the portion of the east bank of the Gunnison River, between the North Fork and the Smith River. In no way is it meant to be used as a fishing guide. However German Browns and Rainbows are aplenty!


After turning off US-92 at the signed Pleasure Park, follow the road nearly to the river. At the first sign (with a map of the rivers) take a left. The commercial lodge will be behind you. In a very short distance you will come to a parking area on your right. Park here.

Gather all your gear and head towards the picnic tables. Before reaching the tables you’ll see a path on your left. Take this to the North Fork. Wade across the North Fork and pick up a trail headed to your right (headed southwest) to the Gunnison. Once at the Gunnison, continue along the trail on the east side of the river. There are two trails, actually - an "upper" and a "lower" (at riverside) with several short connectors sprinkled along the way. Happy fishing!

Warning
There is occasional poison ivy along the trail, but it can be avoided. There are also some steep descents from the upper trail down to the river over loose terrain, so take it slow and don’t wear your Corkers. The fish will wait for you to get there safely.

Check out the Official Route and Triplog.

Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your fly fishing to support this local community.

2018-06-23 Steph_and_Blake