Alert: Please read below for current access issues on this segment
The Slate River between Oh Be Joyful Campground and Skyland Bridge, a 10.5 mile stretch, provides an incredibly scenic and unique flatwater paddling experience in the Gunnison Valley. The majority of the paddling experiences in the immediate vicinity of Crested Butte are demanding Class IV-V, which makes the Slate River a really unique experience for beginner paddlers, SUP, and those looking for a more family friendly floating experience. It has been recognized as some of the best SUP in the state for its mellow floating experience, grandeur views of the Slate River Valley, and surrounding natural environment. You can also break this segment into multiple shorter reaches: Oh Be Joyful Campground to Gunsight Bridge (0.75 mi.), Gunsight Bridge to Town Rec Path (~ 6 mi.), Town Rec Path to Skyland Bridge (~3.75 mi.).
Flows: More information is needed to determine accurate boatable flows. In 2018, it was observed that 130 cfs at the Crested Butte/Baxter Gulch hydrology guage was too low to float for the upper section. In 2019, it was observed that at 900 cfs the McCormick Bridge / Tony's Bridge was impassible, but the rest of the run is still boatable.
In response to increased river use between Gunsight Bridge and the Town Rec Path, concerns about private property and a Heron Rookery in the river corridor have led to implementation of a Floating Management Plan for the 2019 season. The Management Plan sets out a plan for monitoring the rookery, river use and etiquette guidelines, and a “voluntary no-float period” from March 15 to July 15. The voluntary no-float period of March 15 to July 15 took into consideration estimated water availability for the 2019 season and there is estimated to be 14-23 runnable days after July 15.
While American Whitewater is working to improve river access on this segment, we encourage paddlers to stay informed and to take extra measures to be a respectful river steward while paddling in the Slate River Corridor. For more information, please follow the article links to the right.
If you are paddling in the Slate River Corridor at any point this season, we encourage all paddlers to practice the highest level of river etiquette and stewardship ethics. Here are a few things to consider:
•Paddle in small groups (less than 6 recommended)
•Consider paddling one by one through the Heron Rookery area
•Use quiet voices and avoid using loud music
•Know where the public access points are (e.g., Oh Be Joyful Campground, Gunsight Bridge, Town Rec Path, Skyland Bridge, etc.)
•Avoid walking on private property unless it is to avoid a dangerous river hazard
•Avoid urinating, defecating, or otherwise leaving waste anywhere in the river corridor (take advantage of the bathrooms available at Oh Be Joyful and Gunsight Bridge)
For a more information on river etiquette and how to reduce your paddler footprint, check out this recent article,
Play Hard and Leave Only Paddle Strokes, written by Kevin Colburn.
Paddler-friendly fencing: There has been an effort to replace cattle fencing with paddler-friendly fencing. If you encounter a plastic white fence while on the river, duck your head and paddle through it (it is designed to be paddled through).
For questions about access on the Slate River or if you’re interested in getting involved as a volunteer, please contact kestrel@americanwhitewater.org.