Near Delta, CO
Gunnison River
Dam released this gem runs late into the summer and fall. The Gunnison has some world-class fishing just below the dam within the National Park. Then the river goes into the gorge of the Black Canyon (Class V-V+) for about the next 12 miles. Extremely difficult rapids and multiple long mandatory portages exist in the Black Canyon.
Below the Black Canyon is the Gunnison Gorge, also an exceptional fishing opportunity. The Gunnison Gorge is accessed via the Chukar Trail that is about 1.5 miles down from the canyon rim.
The river then continues to flow north through the Lower Gunnison section, making it's way towards Grand Junction until the confluence with the Colorado River.
IV-V+
Black Canyon
Whitewater kayaking enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating adventure amidst breathtaking natural scenery will find their ultimate challenge in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, a remarkable stretch of river in Colorado. Carved over millions of years by the powerful Gunnison River, this canyon is renowned for its rugged terrain, steep cliffs, and challenging rapids, offering an unparalleled whitewater kayaking experience.
The journey begins at the Crystal Dam, where the river winds its way through the narrow, imposing walls of the canyon. Paddlers are immediately immersed in a world of dramatic contrasts – from the deep shadows cast by towering cliffs to the intense sunlight reflecting off the crystal-clear water. The Black Canyon is a testament to the raw power of nature, as the river surges through narrow gorges and around massive boulders, creating a series of heart-pounding rapids.
The relentless power of the river and the sheer vertical drops create an adrenaline-fueled experience for even the most seasoned kayakers. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is not for the faint of heart, and conquering "The Black" is a badge of honor among paddlers.
As kayakers navigate the churning waters, they are treated to a panorama of the canyon's geological wonders – ancient rock formations, layers of sedimentary rock, and the ever-changing play of light on the canyon walls. Wildlife, including eagles and bighorn sheep, adds to the awe-inspiring scenery, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.
The adventure doesn't end with the rapids; paddlers continue downstream through the canyon, encountering a mix of challenging rapids and serene stretches that allow for a moment of reflection amidst the grandeur of the surroundings. Campsites along the riverbanks offer a chance to rest, rejuvenate, and share stories of the day's conquests with fellow kayakers.
Whitewater kayaking in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is a test of skill, courage, and endurance, rewarding those who take on the challenge with an unparalleled sense of accomplishment and a profound connection to one of nature's most awe-inspiring landscapes. It is an adventure that combines the thrill of conquering challenging rapids with the serenity of immersing oneself in the untamed beauty of Colorado's Black Canyon.
Class III-IV
Gunnison Gorge
Perfect for the adventurous class III/IV paddler, the Gunnison Gorge features a 1 mile hike down the steep and dusty Chukar Trail, 10 miles of paddling within a deep, beautiful gorge with scattered class III and IV rapids, and a 4 mile flatwater paddle out, the Gunnison Gorge can be a long day trip, but is best done as an overnighter. Within the canyon, boaters will find great camping, excellent scenery, fun, easy whitewater, and world class fishing. However, when it comes to the Gorge, getting there is half the fun. Sort of.
Logistically, the Gorge can be tough. Besides the hike to the put in, the shuttle is very long and the last 7 miles to the put in are on the Chukar Road. Four wheel drive/high clearance is highly recommended, however, it is not impossible to get a low clearance car or SUV in. The road becomes impassable if even slightly wet, so keep an eye on the weather before attempting to drive in. A shuttle service is offered out of the Gunnison River Pleasure Park (the Takeout) and they can be reached at (970) 872-2525.
Once at the put in, the real work begins. Kayakers can shoulder their boats for the 45 minute hike down to the put in, while rafters generally opt to use the mule service (970.323.0115 ). Because this is a wilderness area, there are user fees, which can be paid at the top of the trail. At the put in, register for your campsite (if applicable) and put on.
The whitewater starts right off the bat with Chukar Rapid, which is fairly straight forward and can be scouted from the put in. One miler is the next major rapid and involves avoiding a rock or hole, depending on flow. Improvise is next and can be recognized by a large rock slide on the left and a cliff wall on the right. Scout left. After a few miles of flat and mild whitewater, comes Buttermilk, which is a wave train that is easily read and ran. Here, the Gorge opens up into Ute Park and the river flattens out. Lots of good camping options exist in this section.
After 2 miles, the technical Red Canyon rapid comes next. The prominent Crystal Creek drainage will be noticeable on the river right. You can eddy out here and scout. Boulder Garden comes about a mile downstream. This rapid used to be the crux of the Gorge, but a 2010 flood changed the rapid dramatically. Scout left. Immediately downstream is Paddle Keeper. Ambitious kayakers can drive up on the large pyramid rock, just right of the main flow for a massive boof around 1000 CFS. T-Dyke is next and is a great surf wave around 900-1300 CFS. About 1.5 miles downstream, the Gorge narrows and the rapids become more technical.
The Squeeze can be tough for rafts, thanks to a jumble of boulders. It can be scouted on the right. The Drops is a series of waves and holes that can be scouted on the right. Cable is next and is a very long, technical rapid that is split into 2 channels at the end. Most run right to avoid the hole, however the left line remains an option depending on flows. Scout right. A few more smaller, technical rapids lead you to the end of the gorge. Don’t forget to check out the Smith Fork on the river right for great swimming!
