Access Improvements on the Taylor River (CO) 

American Whitewater and U.S. Forest Service Partnering to Improve River Access at The Slot on Taylor River in Colorado

American Whitewater is partnering with the Gunnison Ranger District of the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests, outfitters, and the local boating community to secure river access improvements at the The Slot access area on the Taylor River in Colorado. The access improvements aim to improve safety, erosion issues, and the user experience for all types of river users enjoying the Taylor River Canyon. 

The design phase of the project is funded by outfitter and guide fees collected by the Gunnison Ranger District and American Whitewater is managing the funds and providing support and oversight on the design and implementation of the project. We expect to have complete designs and cost estimates this spring from local engineers (and boaters) at SCJ Alliance. We are working closely with the Gunnison Ranger District to raise funds for the construction phase of the project through grants and private donations, with shovels in the ground either in late 2024 or 2025. 

The anticipated improvements include improving and increasing staging area space, building stairs and raft slides from the parking lot to the river, and controlling ongoing erosion. We are committed to ensuring that the area retains its scenic aesthetic, improves the user experience for all types of boaters, and provides long-term protection to the river from erosion. 

When the time comes, we will be reaching out to our members, partners, and supporters to help us reach our fundraising goals for the project. Stay tuned for additional updates as we make progress on the improvement designs. If you have questions about this project or want to be involved please reach out to Kestrel Kunz at kestrel@americanwhitewater.org.

Photo: Current raft access at The Slot on the Upper Taylor River by Matt Quinn