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Access Site CO

Take Out

Elk River Big Creek Mad Creek

Source: american_whitewater Updated 3 months ago

City: CO
County: Routt
Type: Whitewater Take Out
Location: 40.56560100, -106.88919800
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
Whitewater Run
I-II Take-out Elk River - 03. Two miles above Mad Creek to Mad Creek
View Run
Current Conditions
Whitewater Runs on Elk River
3 runs
Difficulty Classes
I Easy II Novice III Intermediate IV Advanced V Expert/Extreme VI Unrunnable
Position relative to this access site: Put-in at this location This location is on the run Take-out at this location
Downstream from here Upstream from here
Whitewater data from American Whitewater
About This Access Site
This take-out site on the Elk River in Routt County provides access to a significant whitewater section of a large mountain river system. The Elk River is a major tributary with substantial flow averaging over 2,700 cubic feet per second, making it a serious whitewater destination that requires proper skills and preparation. The river in this area maintains a notable gradient of approximately 12 feet per mile with an average velocity of 4.17 feet per second, indicating consistent current and active whitewater conditions typical of the Colorado Rockies.

Boaters using this take-out should be aware that the Elk River drains a large watershed of 1,533 square miles and maintains significant elevation changes throughout its course. The water conditions here will be characterized by fast current and whitewater features typical of intermediate to advanced paddling sections. Water levels and difficulty can vary seasonally, with spring runoff typically bringing higher flows and more challenging conditions.

This take-out location serves as an exit point for boaters running whitewater sections upstream. As a dedicated take-out site, it should provide river access for unloading boats and gear after paddling trips. Users should verify current access conditions, parking availability, and any fees or regulations before visiting, as specific amenities and policies may vary seasonally.