fishing fishing

Arkansas River Headwaters - North

Click Trout Symbols on Map for More Fishing Information Arkansas River Headwaters East Area Map Legend of Map Symbols Not all towns appear on map. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for accuracy or completeness of maps. This information was compiled as accurately as possible.


The north portion of the Arkansas River is located 90 miles west of Colorado Springs, and 120 miles southwest of Denver. The river flows usually peak between the 1st and 3rd week of June. This section of the river follows closely to US Highway 24, until the junction of Highway 285 where it follows it down to Salida. The area is also accented by the many 14ers scattered around the river.

The Browns Canyon is a spectacular place for scenery and adventures down the river. Here you can enjoy stunning granite rock formations that are accented by the clear blue Colorado sky. The granite walled canyon holds the river below filled with boulder-strewn waters followed by calm pools, scattered with exciting class III rapids. Enjoy incredible views of the 14,000 peaks of Mt. Princeton, Mt. Antero and Mt. Shavano.

The section of the Arkansas River known as the Numbers is the roughest white water on the river. Here, class IV-V rapids flow through a narrow, rocky and steep canyon. Advanced skills are required to negotiate through the steep and technical drops, tight maneuvers, huge holes and powerful waves. Helmets are provided by most outfitters, and at times, wetsuits may be required.

For some time of relaxation be sure to visit the Mt. Princeton Hot Springs, Cottonwood Hot Springs or the Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center. The Mt. Princeton Springs will relax your tired body in its 135 degree water, as you sit under the 14,000 foot mountain peaks that surround you. These hot springs are located between Narthrop and St. Elmo. The Cottonwood Hot Springs are located near Buena Vista, This retreat emphasizes the pure, gravity-fed, natural hot springs, rock-lined soaking pools, private adult-only spas, cold plunge and sauna. The Salida Hot Springs is Colorado's largest indoor hot springs pool facility. Natural spring water is transported by pipeline from Poncha Springs.

Downhill skiing is also offered at the Monarch Ski Area and Cooper Ski Resort. Monarch Ski Area is situated in the San Isabel National Forest in South Central, Colorado. The average snowfall is 350 inches! Cooper Ski resort is known for its less crowded slopes, bringing Alpine Skiers, Telemarkers, Cross-country Skiers, Snowboarders and Snowmobilers.

Be sure to also travel along the many mountain passes located in the area. Trout Creek Pass, (9.346 feet) Red Hill Pass (9,993'), Hoosier Pass (11,541'), Weston Pass (11,900'), Cottonwood Pass (12,126') and Mosquito Pass (13,186') are all located in the area. Also be sure to travel the Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway, traveling 75 miles starting in Twin Lakes, through Leadville to either Midturn or Copper Mountain, literally at the Top of the Rockies.

Places to Stay and Fun Things to Do

AVA's Colorado Rafting photos on advertiser page mutual link button on advertiser page
World-class rafting trips, from mild floats to advanced whitewater. Discounts offered daily, free wetsuits & jackets. Trips on 8 rivers in multiple Colorado locations, including rafting only 30 minutes from Denver.
groups weddings fishing horse rafting

Arkansas River Rim Campground & RV Park email link button on advertiser page photos on advertiser page mutual link button on advertiser page
Walk to river fishing! Along the Arkansas River, spectacular mountain views, 4-1/2 miles north of Buena Vista, the "Banana Belt of the Rockies". RV & tent sites. On-site trailer, 5th wheel & cabin rentals.
cabins tents rv parks water scenic byway fishing rafting

Chalk Creek Campground, Cabins & RV Park photos on advertiser page mutual link button on advertiser page
Some RV & tent sites are along Chalk Creek, near Buena Vista. Large full hookups for Big Rigs. Cabins with kitchen & bathroom, sleep 6. Close to fishing, rafting, off-roading, hiking & hot springs pools.
cabins tents rv parks family water scenic byway fishing hot springs atving rafting

Colorado Adventures email link button on advertiser page photos on advertiser page mutual link button on advertiser page
Twice Named Colorado's "Company of the Year." Offering 1/2 to 10 day whitewater rafting trips on 5 Colorado rivers. Featuring Inn-to-Inn rafting, horseback riding, jeeping and downhill mountain biking.
b & b inns groups national parks horse jeeping rafting

Colorado Mountain Vacations mutual link button on advertiser page
Vacation homes in the Upper Arkansas River Valley: Buena Vista, Salida & Monarch. Rentals for your family from modest to elegant: Sit back, relax & let us organize your perfect western vacation for you!
cabins Vacation Homes pets ok

Raven Adventure Trips
UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT! Come cool off, relax on a scenic float trip for families of all ages OR get a hit of adrenalin on some class III-IV and V whitewater on the Arkansas River. FREE wetsuit use.
groups rafting

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More Activities & Information

Buena Vista Area - includes Johnson Village, Nathrop & St. Elmo
Leadville & Twin Lakes Area - includes Granite
Salida - includes Howard, Monarch & Poncha Springs

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