No, we have multiple pick-up locations on our way to the river. We recommend bringing a backpack or bag to leave your keys, phones and anything else you don’t want to take on the river. Your shuttle vehicle is like your traveling lockerroom. You’re welcome to leave anything you don’t want lost in the river in the vehicle. If you’re meeting us at our Outpost you can leave anything you don’t want to take with you on the river in your car.

Are there changing rooms?

No, there are porta-potties at some of the river access points, but we recommend wearing your bathing suits under your clothes so you can slide your wetsuits on when you get to the river.

Do you provide towels?

No, we recommend bringing your own towel so you can dry off after your trip. No need to bring it on the river. It’ll just get wet.

Can I take my phone/sunglasses/wallet?

We don’t recommend it. Anything that you wouldn’t be ok potentially losing to the river should stay in the shuttle vehicle or in your hotel.

As much as we would love to play with your pup, dogs are not the best boat mates. Here are a few doggy day-cares in the area: Aspen Animal Shelter A Mom’s Day Off

Will we end up at the same spot we started from?

No. This is a river. It does not run in a circle. It will end up in the Pacific Ocean… or evaporate before it gets there

What do we do if it’s raining?

Our trips depart rain or shine! Rafting is one of the best activities because it doesn’t require blue skies. We have wetsuits and splash tops to keep you warm on the river.

I don’t know how to swim, is that ok?

The Upper, Middle and Lower Fork are great options for non-swimmers. The high adventure sections REQUIRE that you know how to swim and are a strong swimmer. Slaughterhouse, Inflatable Kayaks, Browns Canyon, Pine Creek, and Numbers all require that you know how to swim.

I have my own gear, do I have to use yours?

Nope! You’re welcome to wear your own boots & waders and use your own fly-rod if you have it!

Can we keep the fish?

We are fortunate to have an excellent population of wild trout. Unfortunately, due to the small size of our habitat harvesting fish out of the local rivers is not sustainable. Our local streams are rarely if ever stocked and we prefer to keep it wild and natural. We ask that you please return the fish to the river unharmed.

Can we do spin fishing or bait fishing?

No, conventional tackle is illegal on many sections of our local streams, and we find that it is much more damaging to the environment and the trout. We strongly believe that fly fishing is much more suitable and effective on our fast moving and shallow local rivers. Bait fishing is illegal on all sections of the Roaring Fork and the Frying Pan.

How long does it take?

Most people take about 1.5 hours on the water. Towards the end of summer, when the river gets lower, we move to the South Gate put-in at which point on water time is about 45 minutes. BUT you can paddle back up stream to make the trip last a bit longer.

What happens if I see a moose?

If you come upon a moose while floating, stoop and pull to the side and wait. Ideally, boaters should stay 100 yards from a moose.

What happens when I get to a beaver dam?

Crossing over the dam is the preferred strategy. Getting off the SUP and onto shore is not permitted. My dog paddleboards with me at home, can I bring them to North Star? No, dogs are not allowed at the Nature Preserve. Their presence

Nope! Loud music is not permitted at the Nature Preserve. We want to keep it nice and serene so both animals and humans can enjoy without noise pollution.

How many people can be in my group?

Each launch is limited to 6 people. If you're with an instructor, the group includes 5 guests and 1 instructor.

For more information about North Star Nature Preserve

Visit this link for more information

How long does it take?

Most people take about 1.5 hours on the water. Towards the end of summer, when the river gets lower, we move to the South Gate put-in at which point on water time is about 45 minutes. BUT you can paddle back up stream to make the trip last a bit longer.

What happens if I see a moose?

If you come upon a moose while floating, stoop and pull to the side and wait. Ideally, boaters should stay 100 yards from a moose.

What happens when I get to a beaver dam?

Crossing over the dam is the preferred strategy. Getting off the SUP and onto shore is not permitted. My dog paddleboards with me at home, can I bring them to North Star? No, dogs are not allowed at the Nature Preserve. Their presence

Nope! Loud music is not permitted at the Nature Preserve. We want to keep it nice and serene so both animals and humans can enjoy without noise pollution.

How many people can be in my group?

Each launch is limited to 6 people. If you're with an instructor, the group includes 5 guests and 1 instructor.

For more information about North Star Nature Preserve

Visit this link for more information

I have my own gear, do I have to use yours?

Nope! You’re welcome to wear your own boots & waders and use your own fly-rod if you have it!

Can we keep the fish?

We are fortunate to have an excellent population of wild trout. Unfortunately, due to the small size of our habitat harvesting fish out of the local rivers is not sustainable. Our local streams are rarely if ever stocked and we prefer to keep it wild and natural. We ask that you please return the fish to the river unharmed.

Can we do spin fishing or bait fishing?

No, conventional tackle is illegal on many sections of our local streams, and we find that it is much more damaging to the environment and the trout. We strongly believe that fly fishing is much more suitable and effective on our fast moving and shallow local rivers. Bait fishing is illegal on all sections of the Roaring Fork and the Frying Pan.

Trips - Elk Mountain Expeditions

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By Maleka Vrana | October 31, 2021

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By Maleka Vrana | October 31, 2021

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