Colorado Whitewater

EL RITO AZUL--BLUE LAKE (SEC 26, T35N, R3E) AND PORTION OF CONEJOS ABOVE PLATORO RESERVOIR TO UPPER REACH OF PLATORO RESERVOIR--SEC 6, T35N, R4E


STREAMFLOW: 225 CFS

Class IV-V River Run

The El Rito Azul-Blue Lake run in Colorado is a challenging and exciting whitewater experience for experienced kayakers and rafters. The ideal streamflow range for this run is between 600-1,000 cfs. This segment of the Conejos River above Platoro Reservoir to the upper reach of Platoro Reservoir is rated Class IV-V, and has a total mileage of approximately 10 miles.

This section of the river is characterized by several notable rapids and obstacles, including the "Hole-in-the-Wall," "S-Box," "The Notch," and "The Narrows." These rapids require advanced-level skills, and should only be attempted by experienced boaters.

There are specific regulations that must be followed when boating in this area. All boaters must wear personal flotation devices, and there is a strict limit on the number of people allowed on rafts. Additionally, boaters must obtain a permit to access the area, and must follow all rules and restrictions outlined by the Platoro Reservoir Recreation Area.

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EL RITO AZUL--BLUE LAKE (SEC 26, T35N, R3E) AND PORTION OF CONEJOS ABOVE PLATORO RESERVOIR TO UPPER REACH OF PLATORO RESERVOIR--SEC 6, T35N, R4E
Last Updated 2024-04-25
River Levels 219 cfs (2.16 ft)
Percent of Normal 187%
Reporting Streamgauge CONEJOS RIVER BELOW PLATORO RESERVOIR, CO.
Elevation 9,883 ft.
River Conejos-River
Watershed Conejos

Nearby Camping
Location Campsites Reservations Toilets Showers Elevation
Hansons Mill 5 10,859 ft
Stunner 10 9,849 ft
Park Creek - South Fork 16 8,505 ft
Lower Beaver Creek 23 8,465 ft
Upper Beaver Creek 14 8,523 ft
Lake Fork 20 9,510 ft
Cross Creek 12 8,841 ft
Mix Lake 22 10,081 ft
Highway Springs 11 8,433 ft