Arkansas River - Leadville to Salida (Colorado), no. 2303 | National Geographic

The Arkansas River: Leadville to Salida Fishing & River Map Guide is designed for recreation on the upper Arkansas River.

A clear distinction exists between the river above and below its confluence with Lake Creek. Upstream, it is largely a meandering meadow stream; downstream, it flows through the steep, confined channel of Granite Gorge and the canyons beyond.

The hydrology also differs. Flow in Hayden Meadows above Lake Creek is almost entirely natural, with brief but intense spring runoff. Below the confluence, releases from Twin Lakes and Turquoise Reservoirs increase flows, making high water common downstream of Lake Creek, particularly throughout summer.

Each Fishing & River Map Guide includes detailed maps at 1 inch = 1/2 mile, clearly showing and labelling river bends and rapids. River-centred pages overlap adjacent pages. Features include rapids, river distances, access points, private and public land, gauging stations and recreation sites.

Renowned Arkansas River fly-fishing guide Greg Felt wrote the introduction, specific fly-fishing strategies and descriptions of seasonal river changes. Streamflow charts, hatch charts and a river access table are also included.

As compact and lightweight as folded maps but easier to use, these National Geographic booklets are printed on waterproof, tear-resistant "Backcountry Tough" paper, with stainless-steel staples and a full UTM grid for GPS navigation.