When does the water usually start flowing (May???)

deepsouthpaddler · 01-17-2005

When do the rivers start flowing in the spring? My wife and I are moving to Denver and are doing a househunting trip in the end of May. What does the water situation usually look like towards the end of May? Thanks!

routter · 01-17-2005

That's just about peak runoff for a lot of CO drainages.

Geezer · 01-18-2005

Should be running pretty much all over the place. End of May is close to peak.

stiff · 01-18-2005

Colorado is a big place. And since we are so far from the ocean, our weather varies quite a bit. Last year we had a warm spell in March and things started running then.

Lower elevation and southern runs start early.

jester · 01-19-2005

May and June are the months for boating in Colorado, especially if you like high water. Let's hope that the snow keeps falling and it doesn't get too warm, too quick. I'd be happy to take you on one of my favorite Front Range runs, Clear Creek.

On another note, I am a full-time Realtor serving the Denver area and would be happy to help out a fellow boater in the search for the perfect home. Drop me an personal message and let's chat!

Cheyenne · 01-19-2005

I've gone out in the middle of March already.. just be prepared for very cold water, ice along the shore, etc. Also watch out for ice bridges.

Raleigh · 01-20-2005

Mid May is usually great for CO whitewater. Last year the first week of May we ran Vallecito, Grape Creek, Escalante, and Crested Butte is running as well. Stuff in NM is also running (Taos box etc.)
My husband and I are always looking for new couples to boat with and are down with the dirty south....we are from Georgia and North Carolina so give us a call when you get out 303-661-9375. We also just signed on a house that is a 5 minute walk to a pretty decent play hole in Lyons, CO. We would be glad to show you the town and get some boating in.
GO DAWGS.
Jen & Matt

david23 · 01-24-2005

Slaughterhouse on the Roaring Fork drainage ought to be right in it's prime around then. If this snow keeps up it'll be great. The rest of the Roaring fork is more mellow but will also be good, as well as Shoshone.