Gunnison Forks River Trail

About

The Gunnison Forks River Trail, also known as the West River Trail, is a moderate hiking route located in the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation and Wilderness Area near Delta, Colorado. The trail begins at the end of South River Road, near the confluence of the Gunnison and North Fork of the Gunnison Rivers. It follows the west bank of the Gunnison River through the gorge, offering access to a Gold Medal trout fishery. The route is approximately 3 to 4 miles long and typically takes about two hours to complete. Hikers can expect easy to moderate terrain, though the path includes sections along an old jeep road and spurs leading down to the river across irrigation ditches. The official trail end is marked by the ruins of an old stone building at roughly 1.5 miles, though hikers may continue further. Parking is available at the trailhead, and pets are permitted. The best time for hiking is from September through November. Cell service is limited to zero bars along the route.