The North Valley offers a long list of seasonal outdoor recreation opportunities, ranging from rafting and stand-up paddle boarding to hiking and mountain biking. Nestled between the foothills of the West Elk Mountains, the Grand Mesa, and Raggeds Wilderness, adventure awaits in every direction. 

If you are looking to stay in the valley, the North Fork River of the Gunnison offers chances for world-class fly fishing and rafting. You can also explore its banks with a nature walk at the Paonia River Park or Gunnison River Pleasure Park. 

Located just outside of Paonia, check out the juniper forests on Jumbo Mountain for endless hiking, and fun, rowdy mountain biking trails. 

If you’re into geology, Needle Rock Recreation Area is not-to-be-missed. This short hike explores the base of an ancient volcanic plug rising approximately 1000 feet out of the surrounding landscape at its highest.

The North Fork is also the perfect base camp for endless day trips to some of the Western Slopes most iconic outdoor destinations. The seasonal Kebler Pass traverses one of the largest aspens groves in the world and is less than an hour away. Crawford is a short drive from the North Rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. This access point is not only the least busy but also the most stunning. Flanking the valley to the West, the Grand Mesa is the largest flat top mountain in the world with over 300 lakes and reservoirs to paddle and fish. In November, the Mesa turns into a winter wonderland with some of North America’s best cross country skiing.

Find a new trail. Try a new hobby. Whatever your modality, there’s a chance for you to do it here.