AHRA Conditions | Colorado State Parks

Conditions

Boat Ramps - 5/9/2012

All ramps are Open.

Boating - 5/9/2012

ATTENTION BOATERS: Two trees down across the river north of Johnson Village and about 100 meters south of dam. One comes from the east side and extends to about within six feet of the west shore, and the other is from the west side of the river. AHRA River Rangers will be removing these later this week, so until then, avoid this section or use extreme caution! Flows at early spring levels and boaters are getting out on the river and enjoying it.

Camping - 5/9/2012

There are currently no fire restrictions at AHRA campgrounds, but conditions are very dry and breezy. USE CAUTION with all fires and EXTINGUISH thoroughly! All AHRA campgrounds are open year-round, barring severe weather, and are available for use on a first come - first served basis. AHRA campsites are off-line for reservations beginning October 1 through March 31, 2012. There are no potable water or hookups at any AHRA campground. Remember to bring your own drinking water, firewood and pack all trash in and out. Pay attention to any fire restrictions in place and TAKE CARE WITH CAMP STOVES (place in an area clear of vegetation)! Outside of AHRA developed campgrounds, EXCEPT DURING FIRE RESTRICTIONS, campers must use a rigid side firepan raised off the ground AND a porta potty system. Also, bears are ACTIVE and it is important to use your best "Bear Aware" precautions in securing your camp or picnic area to avoid unnecessary contact with wildlife. Here is Colorado’s Division of Wildlife link on Black Bears. http://wildlife.state.co.us/WildlifeSpecies/LivingWithWildlife/Mammals/LivingWithBearsL1.htm Campsites are now available for reservations through September 30. Book ahead to save your spot this summer!

Construction - 5/9/2012

There is a coffer dam across the river above Canon City upstream of Grape Creek at the Hydraulic Diversion Structure. There is currently no boat chute available at this location. Boaters in this section of the river will be required to portage the structure when they encounter it. AHRA will be rebuilding the amphitheater at Ruby Mountain during May. We are building a new ramp downstream at Lone Pine, but construction is complete on the upper ramp.

Fishing Report - 5/9/2012

Latest report May 7 Salida area: The Arkansas has been through a little turmoil, similar to what happened ten days ago. We had a spate of 80 degree weather, enough to get some melt going up the tributaries, and then the weather turned abruptly cold even as the river was rising. In this case, the cold was accompanied by (much needed) moisture – a mix of snow and rain. As of 3:00 pm Monday, flows are up around 700 cfs at Wellsville with visibility varying. It was tough fishing around Salida today, though it seemed like it was better downstream. The good news is that flows are now dropping in the tributaries and the reservoir releases are being scaled back too. I think Wellsville flows tomorrow will be below 600 cfs and visibility should be ok. Questions continue about the caddis hatch. Prior to this round of cold weather, there were substantial numbers of bugs in upper Browns Canyon on up to Johnson Village. We had reports of people getting into rising fish but they were in the minority. I floated through there Saturday afternoon and saw quite a few bugs, took fish on caddis pupae, but never saw fish up on the top. My guess is that with the warmth resuming Wednesday and Thursday, the hatch will resume as well on that upper section of the river. Meanwhile, in Bighorn Sheep Canyon, the fishing has continued to be very productive (outside of today). This has been largely a nymphing game – stoneflies, attractors, and blue wing olive nymphs/emergers. We’ve also been taking fish on large dries – who can resist after several fish have hit one’s indicator? And streamer fishing has been worthwhile as well. Despite the flow fluctuations, we appear to be in for a low flow year on the Arkansas River. This should equate with good fishing right through the historic runoff period. Start thinking stoneflies!" See also Wildlife Fishing Report at http://wildlife.state.co.us/fishing/reports/Pages/StatewideConditions.aspx

Park Entrance - 5/9/2012

The visitor center is open 7 days a week (Sunday-Saturday) from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, closed for lunch on weekends from noon-1:00 pm. Annual State Parks Passes, OHV and Boat registrations are available, as well as BLM firewood and mining permits, Fishing Licenses, and lots of maps and information about AHRA and the general area. The VC is also a sales outlet for the Greater Arkansas River Nature Association (GARNA), selling a variety of books and maps regarding the State of Colorado and the upper Arkansas River valley and mountains. All AHRA recreation sites and campgrounds are open year-round, barring extreme weather. Self-Serve pay stations for day passes and camping permits are located at AHRA recreation sites.

Road Conditions - 5/9/2012

Roads can be rough, but are currently dry. Use caution. Watch for rocks on Highway 50 in the canyon between Salida and Canon City, and always for oncoming traffic.

Spring Colors - 5/9/2012

Conditions are very dry and breezy, so please use caution with fire. With current moisture a variety of flowers are starting to bloom. Along the river it's good for fishing, cycling or taking a walk. Lots of birds and birdsong!

Trails - 5/9/2012

Hiking, biking and OHV trails along the river are drying out. More snow and resulting mud in the high country so check on OHV trails conditions.

Water Levels - 5/9/2012

Flows at early spring levels. Numbers 429 cfs; Hecla 460 cfs; Wellsville 478 cfs; Parkdale 532 cfs.

Weather - 5/9/2012

Chance of showers starting Friday through the weekend. Highs in the 60's, lows in the 30's-40's. Breezy. Stay aware of quick moving storms. Dress in layers!

Last Updated: 5/9/2012

Last Modified Date: 2/23/2010 4:37 PM

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