Confluence

Limited access

Restrictions: Catch and release only; barbless hooks; no bait

Gunsight Bridge

Public access permitted

Help protect your rivers and lakes. We are incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by snow melt-driven streams and rivers, picturesque alpine lakes, and healthy wetland habitat. Whether you are an angler, kayaker, stand up paddle boarder, or swimmer, we hope you enjoy our conserved water. While enjoying the rivers and lakes, please remember these helpful tips:

• Please do not SUP or float in Peanut Lake

  Despite our mining reclamation of the Peanut Mine, there is still toxic mining waste at the bottom of Peanut Lake. Floating or SUPing on the lake disturbs that waste, and risks contaminating the water for the many species that rely on it.

• Always wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

  Ensure that your PFD fits snugly around your body, and fasten all straps and buckles.

• Please do not dock or get out of the water

  There is public access on the water, but NOT on the surrounding land. Much of the land is owned by private individuals, and you will be trespassing on their land. Please respect this.

• Check river conditions

  The Slate River can be very cold, and very swift at times. Make sure you are comfortable with conditions, and float/SUP at your own risk. You can check the Slate River gauge here. Also note that the Slate River is snow-melt driven. By mid-late summer, the water level becomes too low to float and trespassing is inevitable. It is your responsibility to avoid trespassing by checking conditions before heading out.

• Do not litter

  We have been working closely with the community for over 25 years to preserve the incredible Slate River wetlands. Pack out everything that you bring with you, including any paddles.

• Do not harass wildlife

  The Slate River wetlands offer important habitat for so many plants and animals, among them great blue heron and elk. Both of these animals raise their young in among the willows, and it is crucial that we do not disturb them. All dogs must be on a leash to prevent wildlife harassment.

• Use proper river crafts

  Pool toys are discouraged. The Upper Slate can be swift and rocky. Be sure you have a sturdy boat or board before you begin your trip.

• Float under fencing and obstructions across the river

  

  Land surrounding the Upper Slate River is still used for grazing cattle, as it has been for generations. The Land Trust has worked collaboratively with ranchers and land owners to put up fencing across the river in order to keep cattle on grazing lands. The fencing is rafter-friendly, and designed to be floated under. On the Slate River, the rafter-friendly fencing is made of white PVC pipes and can be raised or lowered to accommodate river flows. Please never cut or remove fencing, and never get out of the river to walk around it.