02. Redcliff to Tigiwon Rd/FR 707

Gilman Gorge is a classic run in the high country characterized by consistent class 4/5 rapids for four miles. It can be run from ~200 to 1500 CFS (the run changes character above 700). The top half is classic class 4/5 boogie water followed by two miles of class 5 drops. One you pass Fall Creek on the left be ready for the run to change character. The run used to have a reputation of being manky, with mining and railroad debris, but this was cleaned up recently and is now mostly clean (with the exception of Slurry Pipe Rapid). Scouting and portaging are easy to do throughout the gorge. Logistics: This is a convenient creek run close to Vail and a popular evening run with the locals. Take exit 171 off I-70 just west of Vail onto Hwy. 24. Head 4.7 miles south on Hwy. 24 and just before crossing the Eagle River turn right onto Tigwon Road. Follow this road 0.5 miles to a pull-out along the Eagle River that serves as a take-out. To reach the put-in return to Hwy. 24 and head south up river. After a few miles of climbing up the hill you will cross a high arch bridge. After crossing this bridge take the dirt road that leads down to the river to a small parking area at the confluence of Homestake Creek and the Eagle River. Alternatively continue up Hwy 24 which now parallels Homestake Creek and add the steep drops of this classic creek as an jump start to Gilman. Note that CRC mentions parking on the highway, but in the past few years, parking at the river level hasn't been a problem. There no longer seems to be any issues at the put-in or take-out, in regards to private property and the authorities.