Gunnison Taylor Park Loop

Gunnison, Colorado offers unparalelled history and recreation throughout the year. A drive from Gunnison to Taylor park narrates the story of Gunnison Country through gleaming vistas, mining/ghosttowns and wildlife.

The loop passes through Parlin and Ohio City on County Road 76, east of Gunnison. There are several sites between Parlin and Taylor Park Reservoir. Ghosttowns include Quartz, Woodstock, Tincup, Abbeyville and Hillerton. The Alpine Tunnel, east of Pitkin, can be accessed during the summer. The tunnel served the Denver, South Park and Pacific Railroad as passage through the Continental Divide for mining operations during the late 1800's. Crossing over Cumberland Pass (12,000 ft.) provides access to several mines and views of 13,214 ft. Fairview Peak.

Taylor Park Reservoir offers a splendid recreation spot along the tour. Anglers crowd the tailwaters of the Taylor River, just below the dam. During May and June, the reservoir is prime for catching trophy lake trout and pike. Near Almont, on the way back to Gunnison, the Taylor and East River join to form the Gunnison River.

Almont resides at the junction of Colorado Highway 135 and County Road 742. From here, traveling Highway 135 leads to Crested Butte, the coveted Colorado Ski Town. As with Gunnison, Crested Butte offers year round recreation including horseback riding, rafting, skiing and snowmobiling.

Places to Stay and Fun Things to Do

Three Rivers Resort & Outfitting Raft, Fish, Kayak
Features modern river front cabins with kitchens. Fly shop. Rafting, Fishing & Kayaking. 10 miles north of Gunnison in Almont, on Taylor, East & Gunnison Rivers. Smokehouse Grill. Cabins can be purchased!

Waunita Hot Springs Ranch
27 miles east of Gunnison, offering a full program of ranch activities - B&B style rooms, horseback riding, overnight campout, rafting, hot springs pool, evening activities & great food! 6 day packages.

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