Colorado River near Kremmling
Fishable
Flow376 CFS
Trendfalling
Clarityclear
Temp48-55°F
Pat's Rubber Legs #10-14 (black/olive/coffee)Guide's Choice Hare's Ear #14-16Duracell #14-16Perdigon #16-18 (black/purple/tan)
Upper Colorado River in June: Float Fishing & Flow Windows
CO
mixed
Current Conditions
Live flows, verdict, and fishing reportQuick Reference
| What | When | Key Numbers |
|---|---|---|
| Pumphouse to Radium | Late June best (post-peak runoff) | 4 mi; 2-2.5 hrs; Needle's Eye Class II-III |
| Ideal flows | Late June drops below 2,500 CFS | 1,500-2,500 CFS optimal; over 4,000 experienced only |
| Salmonfly hatch | First 2 weeks of June | Triggers at 50°F water; floats are most productive |
| Camping | Reserve via Recreation.gov | Pumphouse: $25/night + $10 day use (eff. July 2025); no cell service |
| Shuttle | Rancho del Rio | $50-105; vehicles at put-in by 1pm |
| Fishing temps | Stop at 68°F | Fish early morning; carry thermometer |
NOT RECOMMENDED
Updated 2 days ago
Floating remains not viable — flows have dropped to 376 CFS at the Kremmling gauge (USGS, May 28), down from 529 CFS on May 26 (Cutthroat Anglers). Flows are 1,124 CFS below the 1,500 CFS floating minimum and trending downward. All sections from Pumphouse to State Bridge remain wade-only. NRCS confirms statewide snowpack at 20% of median — lowest on record — with Colorado River May-July runoff forecast at 24% of median (lowest in 73-year record). No remaining snowpack to drive flows to floatable levels. Water temperature 48-55°F. Salmonfly hatch is winding down — Cutthroat Anglers (May 26) reports salmonflies 'starting to slow down' with fewer sightings. The hatch window has passed its peak. Caddis and BWO hatches are the primary opportunity now, both active and producing well. Fishing rated 'terrific' by Cutthroat Anglers despite low flows — fish are concentrated in structural areas: drop-offs, deeper pools, and seams. Nymph rigs most productive: Pat's Rubber Legs #10-14 as lead fly with Zebra Midge #18-22 or RS2 #20-22 dropper. Guide's Choice Hare's Ear and Duracell #14-16 also top producers. Caddis dries productive during afternoon emergence — Elk Hair Caddis #12-18, Double Duck Caddis, Hot Mess Caddis. BWO dries (Christianson's BWO #18-22, Film Critic BWO #18-22, Beefus Emerger) effective during overcast conditions. Streamer fishing excellent — Baby Gonga, Sparkle Minnow, Galloup's Dungeon in cream/black/gray stripped slow along cut banks. Use 15-20ft leaders with 5-7X fluorocarbon — fish are pattern-sensitive in clear, low water. Spawning closures on Grizzly, No Name, Canyon, and Elk Creeks through May 31. Shuttle services (Rancho del Rio) not operating for float season due to insufficient flows.
🎣 TACTICS RIGHT NOWWade fishing only — floating not viable at 376 CFS (need 1,500 CFS minimum). Flows dropping and now 1,124 CFS short. Water temp 48-55°F — safe range for trout. Despite extremely low flows, fishing rated 'terrific' by multiple shops (Cutthroat Anglers, Vail Valley Anglers, May 26). Salmonfly hatch winding down with fewer adults seen — shift focus to caddis and BWO patterns. Nymph rigs are the most productive approach: Pat's Rubber Legs lead with midge/BWO dropper. Fish are concentrated in structural water — drop-offs, deeper pools, seams — rather than distributed throughout. Caddis dries productive during afternoon emergence windows. Streamer fishing excellent — Baby Gonga, Sparkle Minnow, Galloup's Dungeon stripped slow through deeper seams and along cut banks. Use 15-20ft leaders with 5-7X fluorocarbon — fish are pattern-sensitive in clear, low water. Spawning closures on Grizzly, No Name, Canyon, and Elk Creeks expire May 31.
Dry Fly
Elk Hair Caddis #12-18 — caddis hatch active and producing wellfish near banks and along seams during afternoon emergence. Double Duck Caddis #14-16Hot Mess Caddis #14-16Missing Link Caddis #14-16 for variety. BWO dries effective during overcast periods: Christianson's BWO #18-22Film Critic BWO #18-22Beefus Emerger #16-18Parachute Adams #14-20. Salmonfly hatch winding down — fewer adults being seen — but Orange Stimulator #6-10 or Chernobyl Salmonfly #4-6 still worth trying near bankside rocks where stragglers accumulate.
Nymph
Pat's Rubber Legs #10-14 (black/olive/coffee) as lead fly — the top producer right now. Guide's Choice Hare's Ear #14-16Duracell #14-16Perdigon #16-18 (black/purple/tan) all effective as lead or second fly. Tungsten Flashback Pheasant Tail #14-18 and Neon Nightmare #16-18 also working. Trailing flies: olive Zebra Midge #18-22RS2 #20-22Tungsten Slim Shady BWO #18-20. Lowclear water means fish are concentrated in deeper structural areas — target drop-offspool headsand deeper seams. Indicator rig with 5-6ft leader-to-weightlight split shot in the shallow water.
FORECASTFlows have dropped to 376 CFS at Kremmling (USGS, May 28), down from 529 CFS just two days prior. The rain-driven bump that lifted flows from 291 CFS (mid-May) to 529 CFS has subsided. NRCS confirms statewide snowpack at 20% of median (lowest on record) with Colorado River May-July runoff at 24% of median — lowest in the 73-year forecast record. The traditional 3,500-4,500 CFS June peak will not materialize. Flows will remain well below the 1,500 CFS floating minimum barring exceptional sustained rain events. The June float season is effectively cancelled for 2026. Salmonfly hatch is winding down — Cutthroat Anglers reports fewer adults being seen as of May 26. Caddis and BWO hatches remain strong and will continue through June. PMD hatches expected to strengthen through June as water temps warm. Low, clear water conditions favor wade anglers: fish are concentrated in structural areas, hatches are diverse and active, and angling pressure is reduced compared to typical runoff years. This is an exceptional wade fishing year despite cancelled floating. Water temps should remain in the safe 48-58°F range through early June, but monitor afternoon temps during warm spells — stop fishing if temps exceed 65°F.
Overview
June on the Upper Colorado River is a transitional month that rewards those who pay attention to conditions. Early June typically sees peak runoff from snowmelt, with flows that can exceed 4,000 CFS and challenge even experienced paddlers. By late June, the river often settles into more manageable levels, opening up opportunities for a wider range of floaters.
This stretch holds Gold Medal water designation - CPW electrofishing surveys find 4,000-5,000 trout per mile in the Pumphouse to Catamount section, with 16-17 inch fish common. The largest brown ever captured here was 17 pounds.
Time your June trip right and you might catch the salmonfly hatch, experience dynamic high-water rapids, or find that window when flows drop into prime conditions.
What Makes June Different
Early June (Weeks 1-2)
- Peak snowmelt runoff typically occurs in early June
- Flows commonly range from 2,500-4,500 CFS at the Kremmling gauge
- Water is cold (45-55°F) and often discolored from sediment
- Rapids are pushy - Needle's Eye becomes Class III with large holes forming
- Best suited for experienced paddlers comfortable with higher water
- The salmonfly hatch typically begins when water temperatures reach 50°F
Late June (Weeks 3-4)
- Flows begin dropping toward the 1,500-2,500 CFS range
- Water clarity improves as sediment settles
- Temperature warms to 55-62°F
- More accessible to intermediate floaters
- PMD and caddis hatches begin overlapping with late salmonflies
- Longer daylight hours (sunrise ~5:30am, sunset ~8:30pm) mean flexibility for trip timing
Flow Windows for June
Check Colorado River flows on RiverReports before any trip. The river's hydrology is strongly influenced by seasonal snowmelt, with peak flows typically occurring in late May through mid-June.
| Flow (CFS) | June Conditions |
|---|---|
| 1,500-2,500 | Ideal late-June conditions - good current, manageable rapids, prime float fishing |
| 2,500-3,300 | Higher but runnable for intermediate paddlers - faster float, some scouting advised |
| 3,300-4,000 | High water - experienced paddlers only, scout Needle's Eye from river-left |
| Over 4,000 | Very high - not recommended for recreational floating, bridge clearance issues |
The optimal window for most floaters is below 2,500 CFS, which typically arrives in late June but varies year to year based on snowpack and weather patterns.
Key Sections for June
Pumphouse to Radium (4 miles)
The most popular short section, taking about 2-2.5 hours at typical June flows. Features:
- Wake Up Rapid (Class II) - straightforward warm-up at river mile 1
- Needle's Eye (Class II-III) - the signature rapid with a narrow chute. At flows above 3,000 CFS, large holes form above a center-left boulder. Scout from river-left if flows exceed 4,000 CFS.
- Mary's Wall - immediately after Needle's Eye, the river pushes right into a cliff. Stay left at all water levels.
- Radium Hot Springs & Jump Rock - natural warm springs at the takeout tucked against a popular jumping rock, a community gathering spot
Radium to Rancho del Rio (6 miles)
Longer section through the canyon with consistent riffles and a more remote feel. Takes 3-4 hours at June flows.
- Red Eye Rapid (Class II-III) - most significant feature in this section
- Yarmony Rapid - can be pushy at higher flows, stay center
- Canyon walls and cottonwood groves provide scenic float through BLM wilderness
- 9 on-river primitive campsites available first-come, first-served
Rancho del Rio to State Bridge (4 miles)
The mellower finish, mostly Class I-II water. Good option if you want to extend your trip without adding difficulty. Takes 1.5-2 hours.
Access Points and Logistics
All access points are managed by BLM Kremmling Field Office. Note: New fee structure takes effect July 7, 2025.
Pumphouse Recreation Site
- Primary put-in for most floaters
- Three launch areas (Launch 3 is ADA accessible)
- 18 individual campsites - $25/night as of July 2025 (reservations required via Recreation.gov)
- 2 group campsites - $75/night as of July 2025, reserve by calling 970-724-3027
- Vault toilets, drinking water (summer only), firewood for sale
- Camp host on-site during summer season
- Day-use parking: $10 per vehicle (as of July 2025)
- No cell service - bring what you need; Kremmling (15 miles) is nearest town for supplies
Radium Recreation Site
- Mid-river access with two launch/takeout areas
- 9 standard campsites - $6/night
- 2 group campsites - $30/night
- Reservations available at Recreation.gov or call 877-444-6777
- No cell service at Radium or in canyon sections
State Bridge Recreation Site
- Day-use only, $5 per vehicle
- Paved boat ramp and unpaved small-craft launch
- ADA-accessible toilets, dressing rooms
- 14 miles from I-70 (Wolcott Exit #157)
- About 40 minutes from Vail, 1 hour from Steamboat Springs
BLM Contact: Kremmling Field Office - (970) 724-3000
Getting There & Road Conditions
From Kremmling: Head south on Highway 9 for one mile, turn west onto Trough Road (Grand County Road 1). Continue about 10 miles to Pumphouse, marked by a large BLM sign.
From Vail/Wolcott: Take Exit 157 off I-70, head north on Highway 131 for 12 miles to State Bridge. Continue on Trough Road north 18 miles to Pumphouse.
Road conditions: Trough Road is a maintained gravel road (also called the Colorado Headwaters Scenic Byway). It's passable for most vehicles in dry conditions but can get rough and muddy after rain. High-clearance vehicles are helpful but not required. Check conditions with BLM Kremmling if weather has been wet.
Shuttle Services
Most floaters run a two-vehicle shuttle, leaving one car at the takeout before driving to the put-in. If you only have one vehicle, shuttle services are available:
Rancho Del Rio - (970) 653-4431 or ranchodelrio.com
- Shuttles from Pumphouse to State Bridge and other combinations
- $50-105 depending on route
- Vehicles must be ready at put-in by 1:00pm for same-day service
- Online booking closes at 12:30pm for same-day shuttles
- Must sign waiver in confirmation email
- Season runs through early November
Colorado River Rentals - coloradoriverrentals.com
- Vehicle shuttle service in addition to raft rentals
Tip: Day-use fees ($5/vehicle) apply at both put-in and take-out, including for shuttled vehicles.
June Weather and Water Conditions
Air Temperature
Expect highs of 65-85°F with significant day-to-night swings (can drop to 40s overnight). Afternoons warm quickly but mornings start cool, especially in the canyon.
Water Temperature
June water temperatures typically range from 45-60°F - still cold enough to cause rapid heat loss if you swim. The salmonfly hatch triggers when water hits approximately 50°F.
Important for anglers: Stop fishing when water temperature reaches 68°F. Trout become stressed above 65°F and mortality risk increases significantly even with careful handling. Carry a stream thermometer and fish early in the day during warm spells.
What to Wear
- Early June: Full wetsuit or drysuit, splash jacket, neoprene booties, gloves
- Late June: Wetsuit or paddle jacket, synthetic layers you don't mind getting wet
- Always bring dry clothes in a waterproof bag for after the float
Hazards Specific to June
High Water Considerations
- At flows above 4,000 CFS, bridge clearance becomes an issue - you cannot float under the second bridge
- Needle's Eye rapid forms significant holes that can flip rafts above 3,000 CFS
- Faster current means less reaction time for obstacles
- At high flows, vegetation along banks can become submerged and dangerous
Strainers (Downed Trees)
Strainers are more common in June after spring floods deposit debris. They tend to accumulate on outside bends where bank erosion is greatest. In 2024, downed trees spanning the Blue River (a nearby tributary) prompted temporary closures - the same can happen here.
If you encounter a strainer: Paddle aggressively away from it. If you're swimming and can't avoid it, turn onto your stomach and try to climb up and over (never attempt to swim underneath). The current can pin you against debris with tremendous force.
Scout any unfamiliar sections, especially after recent high water events. Ask at Pumphouse about current conditions - the camp host often knows about new hazards.
Cold Water Risk
June water temperatures in the 45-55°F range can cause cold shock and rapid incapacitation if you swim. Hypothermia onset is measured in minutes, not hours. Always wear appropriate thermal protection and know how to self-rescue.
Afternoon Weather
Thunderstorms are common in June afternoons along the Colorado Rockies. Plan to be off the water by early afternoon if storms are forecast. Lightning is the primary danger - get off the water and away from tall trees.
No Cell Service
There's no cell coverage at Pumphouse, Radium, Rancho del Rio, or in the canyon sections. Plan accordingly:
- Tell someone your float plan and expected return time
- Bring a satellite communicator (Garmin InReach, etc.) if you want emergency contact capability
- Know basic self-rescue techniques
Overnight Trip Requirements
For on-river camping, BLM requires:
- Fire pan for any campfires
- Leak-proof human waste containment system
- Pack out all trash
Fishing in June: The Salmonfly Hatch
June brings the salmonfly hatch to the Upper Colorado. These massive stoneflies (2-3 inches long) emerge when water temperatures reach approximately 50°F, typically in the first two weeks of June.
Hatch Timing and Progression
- The hatch moves upstream from Dotsero through State Bridge over 1-2 weeks
- Peak emergence at any given location lasts only 3-7 days
- The really good fishing may only last a few days - usually not longer than ten
- Following salmonflies, Golden Stoneflies extend dry fly opportunities into July
Best Times of Day in June
- Early morning (6-10am): Often best - water is clearest before daily snowmelt adds sediment, and temperatures are in the safe range
- Midday: Typically slower fishing; water can become off-color as upstream snowmelt reaches your section
- Evening: Can be productive if water temps stay below 65°F; watch for caddis activity
- Rule of thumb: Clarity beats flow. 500 CFS of clear water often fishes better than 300 CFS of muddy water. Look for the clearest sections along banks.
June Fly Patterns
Salmonfly Patterns (sizes #2-6):
- Nymphs: Pat's Rubberlegs (black/brown), Bitch Creek, Girdle Bug, Yuk Bug
- Dries: Rogue River Stone, Orange Stimulator, Noble Chernobyl Salmonfly, Orange PMX
PMD Patterns (sizes #16-18): Emerge mid-to-late June
- Nymphs: Trina's Bubbleback PMD, Quasimodo Pheasant Tail, brown Micromayfly
- Dries: Pink Foam Parachute, Melon Quill, PMD Parawulff
Caddis Patterns (sizes #14-18): Kick in as runoff subsides
- Elk Hair Caddis, Lafontane Caddis Emerger, peacock caddis pupa
Tactics
- Fish near the banks in shallow water rather than mid-channel - trout follow nymphs toward shore before emergence
- Float fishing is most productive during the hatch when water is high
- Slam your fly onto the water rather than soft presentations - salmonflies are clumsy
- Try waking or skittering your dry fly for aggressive takes
- In off-color water, go big with nymph patterns (#6 or larger) and fish tight to structure
Fishing Conditions Reality Check
Early June fishing is challenging due to high, off-colored water. Float fishing becomes significantly more productive once flows drop below 2,500 CFS, typically in the second half of June. If fishing is your primary goal, late June usually offers better conditions - but call a local fly shop for current intel on hatch timing.
Trip Planning Checklist
Before You Go
- Check current flows at the Kremmling gauge
- Review the 7-day flow forecast for trends
- Reserve campsite at Recreation.gov if staying overnight
- Purchase Colorado fishing license if angling ($35.17 resident, $98.62 nonresident annual)
- Check weather forecast for afternoon thunderstorms
Required Gear
- Coast Guard-approved PFD for each person
- Appropriate thermal protection for water temperature
- Dry bag for valuables and dry clothes
- First aid kit
- Water and snacks (plan for full-day hydration)
- Sun protection - hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses
Recommended for June
- Wetsuit or drysuit (early June essential, late June recommended)
- Throw rope (50+ feet)
- Repair kit for inflatables
- River map of your section
- Waterproof phone case or leave phone in car
- Stream thermometer (anglers)
Overnight Trip Additions
- Fire pan
- Human waste containment (WAG bags or similar)
- Water filter or treatment
- Camping gear (or rent from outfitter)
Guided Options
If you're new to the Upper Colorado or uncomfortable with June's variable conditions, several outfitters run guided trips:
Rafting Outfitters
- AVA Rafting - Operates from Kremmling outpost, 45 minutes from Summit County. Half-day scenic floats welcome ages 2+. Raft rentals start at $199. Contact: coloradorafting.net
- MAD Adventures - Full-day and multi-day trips from Kremmling
- Colorado River Rentals - Self-guided raft rentals with shuttle service from put-in to take-out
Fly Fishing Float Trips
- Kirks Flyshop (Grand Lake) - Half-day ($500) and full-day ($650) guided float trips. All gear provided including rods, waders, boots, flies, and boat. Lunch on full-day trips. Fish catch guarantee. Contact: kirksflyshopgrandlake.com
- Mountain Angler - Permitted on 50+ miles from Pumphouse to Dotsero. Has exclusive put-in/take-out at Yellow Dog Ranch for sections other outfitters can't access. Contact: mountainangler.com
- AVA Rafting - 4-hour guided fly fishing floats, 1-2 guests per guide. Walk & wade trips from $249. Contact: coloradorafting.net
Guided trips make particular sense in June when reading water conditions and timing the hatch requires local knowledge.
Using RiverReports
Track conditions and plan your June float:
- Check Colorado River at Kremmling flows for real-time data
- Compare current flows to historical averages to understand where you are in the seasonal pattern
- Set flow alerts to know when conditions hit your target window
Remember that June flows can change quickly. A warm spell accelerates snowmelt; cool weather slows it down. Check conditions the day before your trip, not just a week out.
Bottom Line
June on the Upper Colorado requires flexibility. Early June means high water (2,500-4,500 CFS), cold temperatures, off-color water, and technical rapids - it's for experienced paddlers who know what they're getting into. Late June, once flows drop below 2,500 CFS, opens up to a wider range of floaters.
The key is watching the gauge and being willing to adjust your plans. Check flows the day before, not a week out. Have backup dates if possible. And remember: no cell service means you need to be self-sufficient once you're on the water.
Get the timing right and you'll find excellent fishing, canyon scenery, and far fewer people than Colorado's more famous rivers.
For summer floating after runoff, see our Upper Colorado Summer Guide. For statewide conditions, visit Colorado rivers.
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