Lake with Single Dock In Mountains

Roaring Fork River Vacation Rentals

Roaring Fork River

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Roaring Fork River
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Why Rent On Roaring Fork River

Cascading down from Independence Pass and slicing through Aspen before joining the Colorado River at Glenwood Springs, the Roaring Fork River is one of Colorado’s iconic fly fishing and whitewater destinations. Designated as Gold Medal Waters, this fast-flowing freestone river offers abundant rainbow and brown trout in its upper reaches. Spring runoff turns it into a whitewater rafter’s dream with Class III–IV rapids. In summer and fall, the river slows into glassy pools framed by golden aspen groves. Locals stroll the Rio Grande Trail, which parallels much of the river’s length. Whether casting a fly near Woody Creek or paddling through Glenwood Canyon, the Roaring Fork offers a dynamic blend of alpine beauty and adrenaline.

Best time to go
Visit the Roaring Fork River in late spring, from mid-May to early June, as wildflowers bloom and the air buzzes with warmth. Ideal for fishing and kayaking, the gentle flow invites tranquility, while weekdays promise serene solitude amidst stunning mountain vistas.
Water Quality
The Roaring Fork River's water color ranges from clear and transparent to occasionally off-color due to sediment from Grizzly Reservoir drawdowns. Its clarity is typically crystal-clear, though it can become slightly murky during periods of lower flow and sediment disturbance.
Surface area (mi)
2340.08
Elevation (ft)
5718.5

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Cross-country Skiing
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Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Roaring Fork River has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • No, it is not entirely safe to swim in the Roaring Fork River. The river between Difficult and Brush Creeks is listed as impaired waters due to not meeting aquatic life standards, with suspected stressors including stormwater runoff and altered riparian habitats.

  • The Roaring Fork River is a popular destination because it offers abundant recreational opportunities. It is ideal for white water rafting, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, and fishing, particularly in its Gold Medal trout waters between Basalt and Glenwood Springs. The river also attracts visitors with its scenic backdrop and diverse wildlife.

  • The Roaring Fork River in Colorado has various fishing regulations. From McFarlane Creek to Upper Woody Creek Bridge, it’s catch and release with artificial flies only. From Upper Woody Creek Bridge to the Colorado River, artificial flies and lures are allowed with a minimum trout size of 16 inches and a limit of 2. Fishing is prohibited near confluences with Four Mile Creek and Three Mile Creek from March 15 to May 15 and October 1 to November 30.

  • There is no traditional dog-friendly beach on the Roaring Fork River, but there are several dog-friendly spots along the river where dogs can swim and play. For example, dogs can splash and swim in the shallow pools formed by the Roaring Fork River near Aspen’s Rio Grande Park and other areas along the river.

  • The towns near the Roaring Fork River are Aspen, Snowmass Village, Basalt, Carbondale, and Glenwood Springs. These towns are located within the Roaring Fork Valley, which is defined by the Roaring Fork River and its tributaries. The valley is a significant geographical region in western Colorado.