From scenic Class I floats to Class IV canyon runs and Gold Medal trout fishing near Hotchkiss, Colorado.
Half-day, full-day, and multi-day rafting and fishing trips through the Gunnison Gorge and nearby National Conservation Areas.
water-activities · Hotchkiss
Float 39 scenic miles of the Gunnison through Dominguez-Escalante NCA — sandstone canyons, petroglyphs, and a hikeable waterfall make this a family-friendly two-day raft trip. Perfect for photographers, first-time rafters, and paddlers who want the option of kayaks or SUPs.
Gunnison River Expeditions is a river outfitter based in Hotchkiss, Colorado, that operates guided rafting and fly-fishing trips across the Gunnison River system and nearby National Conservation Areas. The company runs a diverse schedule of experiences, including half-day and full-day jet boat and dory float fishing trips through the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area, multi-day float-fishing trips, walk-and-wade fishing, scenic Class I–II rafting, and Class II–IV whitewater rafting on the North Fork and in the Gunnison Gorge.
Trips target Gold Medal waters and large rainbow and brown trout on organized floats ranging from 6-mile half-day outings to three-day float-fishing adventures. Whitewater options include Class II–IV rapids, a two-day canyon run with camping on remote beaches, and spring-runoff season runs shaped by changing river conditions. Scenic floats highlight canyon views, waterfalls, petroglyph sites, and archaeological features noted along the Dominguez-Escalante and Pleasure Park to Austin corridors.
Guided fishing trips include float and walk-wade formats, and several offerings combine fishing with dory access or jet-boat transport through narrow canyon sections. Wildlife viewing opportunities include bald eagles, bighorn sheep, and diverse birdlife. Reservations are recommended for seasonal and limited-access trips. Gunnison River Expeditions works within the regulations and public-access frameworks of the Gunnison Gorge NCA and nearby public lands to deliver river experiences focused on safety, scenery, and access to prime fishing water. Seasonal windows run from spring runoff through late summer; advance booking is recommended to secure limited permits, group options, and available equipment rentals for specific trip dates and access requirements.
“Every outing is organized with local river knowledge, basic safety instruction, and equipment checks before departure.”
Base of operations near Gunnison Gorge
Half, full, and multi-day options
Access to Gold Medal trout streams
Trips operate in two NCAs
Open the individual experience guide to confirm current availability, pricing, policies, conditions, and inclusions before booking.
The operator provides clear meeting points, departure times, and destination coordinates for all outings.
Personal flotation devices, emergency protocols, equipment checks, and paddling orientations are provided before departure.
Recommended layering, water shoes, sunscreen, and dry bags are detailed in each experience guide.
Guides share rich knowledge of regional flora, fauna, scenic landmarks, and river navigation.
A glimpse into the experiences, natural landscapes, and adventures waiting on your next trip.
Images supplied on the current Gunnison River Expeditions listing.
Gunnison River Expeditions offers a variety of guided outdoor excursions, scenic routes, rentals, and custom itineraries tailored for families, couples, and adventure enthusiasts.
Yes. Most trips feature comprehensive safety orientations, equipment fittings, and calm routes suited for first-time adventurers. Check the details on individual experience guides for specific age and skill requirements.
Standard safety equipment (such as certified life vests and essential gear) is supplied for each booking. Detailed checklists regarding weather-appropriate attire and personal items are provided prior to departure.
Secure seasonal spots for float fishing, jet-boat dory trips, scenic floats, and whitewater expeditions — advance reservations recommended.
water-activities · Hotchkiss
Spend a calm, scenic day on the Gunnison River from Pleasure Park to the Delta confluence—family-friendly rafting with a riverside picnic, petroglyph hike to Eagle Rock Shelter, and optional kayaks or SUPs. Perfect for multigenerational outings and birdwatching under the Grand Mesa skyline.
fishing · Hotchkiss
Ride a jet boat into the Gunnison Gorge, transfer to a stable dory, and fish Gold Medal waters with a pro guide in a compact morning outing. Perfect for families, beginners, and anglers who prefer comfort over long hikes.
land-adventures · Hotchkiss
Discover Hotchkiss at your own pace with a full-day vehicle rental—drive orchard-lined roads, chase mesa overlooks, and stop at farm markets and river pullouts. Ideal for photographers, families, and independent explorers who want flexibility and local recommendations.
fishing · Hotchkiss
Float six miles of Gold Medal water with Gunnison River Expeditions — two miles of private water and four through Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area. Perfect for skill builders and busy travelers, this 4-hour drift delivers technical fishing, dramatic canyon scenery, and plentiful Rainbow and Brown Trout.
fishing · Hotchkiss
Float into the Gunnison Gorge by jet boat, then fish Gold Medal waters from a comfortable, guide-staffed dory. This accessible, full-day adventure delivers canyon scenery, expert instruction, and fishable water few anglers reach on foot.
fishing · Hotchkiss
Spend a full day floating Gold Medal trout water through the Gunnison Gorge NCA. This guided drift-boat trip combines technical instruction, seasonal hatches, desert canyon scenery and petroglyph-lined banks—perfect for anglers who want instruction and steady action.
water-activities · Hotchkiss
Spend a full day floating the Gunnison through towering Dominguez-Escalante canyons—an easy-to-moderate float with a waterfall hike, petroglyph viewing, and optional kayaking. Perfect for families and photographers wanting dramatic rock walls, wildlife, and a riverside lunch.
fishing · Hotchkiss
Spend a focused half day casting for rainbow and brown trout in the Gunnison Gorge NCA with guided instruction and access to private waters. Small groups, local hatch knowledge, and straightforward coaching make this a top pick for anglers visiting Hotchkiss, Colorado.
fishing · Hotchkiss
Float 14 miles through Precambrian canyon walls in a guided two-day angling trip near Hotchkiss, Colorado. Experience world-class rainbow and brown trout fishing, rigorous rapids, and BLM-managed solitude—book early to secure your spot.
fishing · Hotchkiss
Spend a full day floating 14 miles of Gunnison Gorge with expert guides and chase hard‑fighting wild rainbow and brown trout. This regulated, low‑use run combines world‑class fishing with dramatic Precambrian canyon walls and abundant wildlife.
fishing · Hotchkiss
Float three days through the Gunnison Gorge with experienced guides from Gunnison River Expeditions. Fish for large wild rainbow and brown trout amid Precambrian cliffs and limited daily permits—book early.
fishing · Hotchkiss
Spend a full day wading the Gunnison River with expert guides from Hotchkiss, Colorado—private access, hands-on casting coaching, and prime rainbow and brown trout water. Perfect for anglers who want instruction, solitude, or a technical day on desert river runs.
water-activities · Hotchkiss
Spend a full day running Class II–III rapids on the North Fork River near Hotchkiss, Colorado. Expect eight hours of guided whitewater, canyon scenery, and frequent wildlife sightings — perfect for families and paddlers seeking a technical but accessible day on the water.
water-activities · Hotchkiss
Race through Class III–IV rapids and sleep on a sandy river beach under dark skies. This two-day guided trip on the Gunnison Gorge pairs technical whitewater with wildlife viewing and ancient Precambrian canyon walls.
water-activities · Hotchkiss
Float eight scenic miles through the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area—an easy, family-friendly half‑day with swims, birding, and a short hike to a 13,000-year-old archaeological site. Perfect for first-time rafters and photographers chasing canyon light.
Click into any experience card above to view current dates, live availability, transparent pricing, cancellation policies, and booking details.