All About the Eagle River

Branching off of the Colorado River is the Eagle River. It starts at the Continental Divide in Eagle County and ultimately reaches Gypsum and joins the Colorado River again in Dotsero. It spans 61 miles and attracts many outdoor enthusiasts.

Eagle River

The Eagle River. Photo credit to: www.coloradoguy.com

The Eagle River is a water enthusiasts mecca. It is not only home to some great whitewater, but awesome fly fishing as well! The Eagle River is an undammed river. As such, water levels fluctuate throughout the season.

However, when in season the Eagle has some awesome rafting! Two distinct whitewater sections of the Eagle River are the Lower Eagle and Dowd Chutes. The Lower Eagle, with splashy wave trains and small holes, makes for a great rafting the whole family can enjoy! As you paddle through the class II and class III rapids you will meander down the Vail Valley and into desert terrain. It is a truly spectacular backdrop! The Dowd Chutes are very thrilling with more intense whitewater! While only a ¼ mile long, the Dowd Chutes are nothing short of exciting with several class IV rapids and back to back class III rapids.

Though rafting is one of the major attractions on the Eagle River, fly fishing is another huge activity that draws water enthusiasts. As the river winds through the valley of Avon the gradient mellows out, allowing for some awesome water to wade in. Wild Rainbow Trout and Browns are all fish native to the area and are found in abundance. As the river becomes more mild, the bigger the fish get.

If looking for some whitewater and fishing the Eagle River truly has it all. With a vertical drop of 2,400 ft over 30 miles, you will be sure to find some awesome rapids, but don’t let that discourage you from the fishing. As the river passes through the Valley it mellows out and is home to massive Browns +20” in length! The Eagle River is a wonderful place for water enthusiasts to spend the day or an afternoon, so get out there and explore one of the last undammed rivers in Colorado!

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