Recreation - The Taylor has rainbow and brown trout. The entire river fishes best after the spring runoff, usually July 1 to mid-October. The best dry-fly fishing is July - September. The upper river near the dam stays open year round. Although there is not much public water up by the dam, it can hold some exceptionally large fish. Currently the state record trout comes from this section of river.

Boaters should know that large water releases out of Taylor Reservoir, which make this run better, are very uncommon. In an exceptional snow year the river can get above 1000 c.f.s., but this does not happen enough. The releases from the privately owned reservoir seem more suited to the fisherman than the boater, but if you find high water its good fun.

Climate - The Taylor River is situated in high mountainous altitudes. Persons coming from lower elevations should be aware that time is needed to adjust to the higher elevations.

Warm days and cool to freezing nights can be expected in the mountains during the summer. July and August are usually the warmest months. During this time afternoon thunderstorms are common. Be prepared for both warm and chilly weather, as well as for rain showers.

Being at high elevation and fueled mainly by melting snow, the Taylor is a rather cold river. During the spring runoff the river is full of freshly melted snow, and the temperature of the water is especially cold. Please make sure that you dress appropriately when participating in whitewater sports. Wear shoes that can protect feet if you bounce off rocks or walk out of a canyon in the event of an accident. Wet suits are mandatory when air and water temperature added together total 100 degrees or less. If total is less than 80 degrees, a full set of waterproof or wool garments on top of the wet suit should be worn.

Location - To reach the Taylor River from Buena Vista and Highway 285, drive west over Cottonwood Pass. This takes about an hour and involves 25 miles of dirt road. From the west, or Gunnison, take Highway 135 north to Almont. Go right in Almont to find the river.

LAT: 38.6648712623
LONG: -106.846504211