'Magic' Crystal River
by K. Christopherson |
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Many anglers head to the Aspen area for the
fine flyfishing on the Roaring Fork and Fryingpan. And most of
these people overlook one of the region's other fine streams,
the Crystal. This freestone river runs for almost 35 miles along
a quiet path which is sided by some of Colorado's gorgeous
scenery.
The headwaters of the Crystal lie above the town of
Marble. This alpine country of high peaks is home to a large
marble deposit. The marble was quarried for use in many well-known
buildings, including the Lincoln Memorial. The quarry re-opened a
few years ago, and will supply the marble for the restoration of
the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. As you drive to the headwaters of
the Crystal, you'll drive through the town of Marble where the
mill was. Large blocks of marble lie everywhere. This makes for
scenic footing as you cast into the river!
The Crystal ends at Carbondale where it merges with
the Roaring Fork. Note - this is where some of the finest fishing,
albeit not the greatest scenery, can be found. The confluence can
be great fishing during the spring and fall when the rainbows and
browns (respectively) run up the Crystal to spawn. You'll also
find a large population of Whitefish in the Crystal. Get off you
high horse about these fish - they're fun to chase too!
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White marble and snow line the banks in
the spring |
All but the last six miles of the river's
course flow through White River National Forest. This makes
access a bit easier to figure out, as long as you respect the
private lands within the forest. The upper reaches can be
accessed at campgrounds and turnouts. Fishing is also allowed at
the historic Redstone Lodge (for a fee).
The Crystal has a good mix of water with
flatter sections spelling the rough 'n tumble, boulder-strewn
plunge pools. This same water attracts kayakers in the Spring.
On that subject, the Crystal river is not always crystal clear.
The beauty of the area, in part created by the geology, also
lends a hand in muddying up this stream during runoff or heavy
rains. During these times, your best bet will be to head east
and fishing the Roaring Fork above its confluence with the
Crystal.
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Flowing near Redstone |
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Views of the higher country |
Access near Carbondale:
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