The Taylor River begins below the Taylor Reservoir and is among one of the fastest rivers in the continental United States. The river is unsurpassed for natural beauty. The glacier carved canyon widens and then proceeds at a slower speed for ten miles before it meets the East River, forming the headwater of the Gunnison River. The area is also characterized by herds of elk and bighorn sheep.

The river is divided into three sections, the Upper, the Lower and the Lotis Creek section. The upper section is characterized by consistent flow of Class III rapids and is the longest, most exhilarating white water experience on the Taylor River. This section of the river is a high alpine stream, meandering under the incredible views of the Collegiate Peaks. The route is filled with great riffles, nice pocket water and white water chutes. The Lower section of the river is slower in speed but also has exciting Class II white water rapids with rolling chutes. The 12 miles from Almont to below the dam characterize this section of the river. The last section, Lotis Creek, is the advanced portion of the river. This part is filled with Class III-IV continuous rapids.

The International Rapid Rating Scale:

• Class I: Easy. Fast moving water with riffles, small waves.
• Class II: Novice. Straightforward rapids, wide, clear channels.
• Class III: Intermediate. Rapids, moderate, irregular waves.
• Class IV: Advanced. Intense, powerful rapids, precise boat
handling.
• Class V: Expert. Long, obstructed, violent rapids.