Paonia State Park

Paonia State Park offers a boat ramp access point to Muddy Creek, a large river in western Colorado. The concrete boat ramp is 20 feet wide with docks on both sides, providing ample space for launching kayaks, canoes, and small motorized boats.

Muddy Creek is a sizeable waterway, with a total length of 855 miles and a drainage area of over 8,000 square miles. Fed by snowmelt, the river has an average flow of nearly 350 cubic feet per second and a gentle gradient of 11 feet per mile, making it suitable for a variety of paddling and boating activities. However, users should be aware of the river's fluctuating water levels, as the boat ramp may be seasonally affected.

The park itself is open year-round, though facilities like the boat ramp may have limited availability during the winter months. Visitors can also take advantage of the nearby Bogan Flats Campground, located within 10 miles of the access site. Whether you're planning a day trip or a multi-day adventure, the Paonia State Park boat ramp provides a convenient entry point to explore the scenic Muddy Creek.

A very difficult day hike to a mountain pass through groves of aspen, pine forests and open meadows offering wonderful views of surrounding peaks. Due to the steep terrain, this trail is recommended for experienced backpackers. Camping is prohibited within 100 feet of the trail and streams. The trail starts a quarter mile up Yule Creek trail and ends at the pass. This is a short, very steep...

A very difficult day hike to a mountain pass through groves of aspen, pine forests and open meadows offering wonderful views of surrounding peaks. Due to the steep terrain, this trail is recommended for experienced backpackers. Camping is prohibited within 100 feet of the trail and streams. The trail starts a quarter mile up Yule Creek trail and ends at the pass. This is a short, very steep trail. Most people agree that the climb is worth the beautiful views from atop the Raggeds Wilderness. There is hiking and heavy horse use on this trail in the fall during hunting season. Great area to view wildflowers. You can also get to the pass from the Raspberry Creek trail.

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