Canyon Enterprises Inc

Welcome, fellow Coloradans, to an essential guide for navigating one of our state's most beautiful and beloved outdoor areas: Eleven Mile Canyon, near Florissant. For many, this canyon represents a quintessential Colorado experience, offering spectacular scenery, world-class fishing, and abundant recreational opportunities. However, access to this pristine national forest land is managed by a private company, Canyon Enterprises Inc., which oversees the entry points and collects a fee for its use. This arrangement has generated some discussion among locals, but understanding the system is key to enjoying all that this "nice spot" has to offer.

Eleven Mile Canyon is a gem for outdoor enthusiasts, whether you're an avid angler hoping to cast a line in the renowned South Platte River, a hiker seeking serene trails, or simply someone looking to take stunning photographs amidst towering rock formations and whispering pines. While the specific services provided by Canyon Enterprises Inc. within the canyon are primarily related to access and general oversight of the recreation area, their role is crucial in maintaining the area for public enjoyment. This guide aims to provide you with clear, factual information about accessing Eleven Mile Canyon, understanding the associated fees, and maximizing your visit to this incredible Colorado destination.

The purpose of this article is to help you, as a local user, understand the operational aspects of Eleven Mile Canyon. We'll delve into the location and how to get there, clarify the fees involved, and highlight the diverse recreational activities you can engage in once inside. We’ll also address common points of discussion surrounding the management of this unique natural area, ensuring you have all the knowledge to plan a smooth and enjoyable trip to one of Colorado’s most picturesque canyons.

Eleven Mile Canyon is geographically located at 1010 Co Rd 96, Florissant, CO 80816, USA. This places it within the Pike-San Isabel National Forests, a vast area of federal public land in the heart of Colorado. To reach the canyon, visitors typically drive to Lake George, Colorado, and then take County Road 96 off US Highway 24. This road leads directly into the canyon, with an entrance station where fees are collected.

Accessibility to Eleven Mile Canyon is generally good, with a well-maintained gravel road that extends deep into the canyon. While the road is navigable by most standard vehicles, it's always advisable to drive carefully, especially during adverse weather conditions. The canyon is known for its narrow passages and winding turns, so a cautious approach allows for both safety and enjoyment of the scenic drive.

It is important for visitors to note that access to Eleven Mile Canyon requires payment of an entrance fee. This fee is collected by Canyon Enterprises Inc., which operates the entrance station. The fee is typically a one-time charge per vehicle for day use within the canyon. An annual pass may also be available for frequent visitors, offering a cost-effective option for locals who plan to explore the canyon regularly. The fee helps cover the costs of managing the recreation area, including maintenance of the road, facilities, and general oversight of the natural environment. While some visitors have expressed concerns about a private company managing access to public land, this is a long-standing arrangement for this particular area.

Services Offered (by Canyon Enterprises Inc. in relation to Eleven Mile Canyon access):

• Management of the entrance station to Eleven Mile Canyon.
• Collection of a daily vehicle fee for access to the canyon.
• Sale of annual passes for frequent visitors.
• General oversight and patrol of the canyon area to ensure regulations are followed.
• Coordination with the U.S. Forest Service regarding the recreational use of the canyon.
• Provision of information regarding canyon access and rules at the entrance.

Features / Highlights (of Eleven Mile Canyon, accessible via Canyon Enterprises Inc. management):

• World-Class Fishing: Eleven Mile Canyon is renowned for its "gold-medal" trout fishing opportunities along the South Platte River. Anglers can enjoy fly-fishing for rainbow, brown trout, kokanee salmon, and pike in a picturesque setting.
• Stunning Scenery: The canyon boasts "gorgeous views" and "beautiful mountain scenery" with towering granite cliffs, lush forests, and the meandering river. It's an exceptional spot for nature photography and scenic drives.
• Hiking and Exploration: The canyon offers "plenty of trails to hike" for all ages and skill levels, providing opportunities for leisurely strolls or more challenging treks amidst the natural beauty.
• Rock Climbing: The solid rock cliffs throughout the canyon provide excellent opportunities for rock climbing, attracting climbers of various experience levels.
• Picnicking: Numerous picnic areas are scattered throughout the canyon, offering ideal spots for day-trippers to enjoy a meal outdoors with stunning views.
• Camping Access: While Canyon Enterprises Inc. manages the canyon entrance, several U.S. Forest Service campgrounds (such as Cove, Riverside, Spillway, and Springer Gulch Campgrounds) are located within Eleven Mile Canyon, offering camping opportunities for those wishing to extend their stay. These campgrounds are typically reservable through Recreation.gov.
• Wildlife Viewing: The canyon is home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, deer, elk, and numerous bird species, offering fantastic opportunities for wildlife observation.
• Managed Access for Preservation: The fee system and managed access, while a point of discussion for some, contribute to maintaining the canyon's pristine condition by helping to control visitor numbers and fund necessary upkeep.

Contact Information:

Address: 1010 Co Rd 96, Florissant, CO 80816, USA

Phone: (719) 748-3619

Mobile Phone: +1 719-748-3619

Note: These contact details are for Canyon Enterprises Inc. For specific campground reservations within Eleven Mile Canyon (e.g., U.S. Forest Service campgrounds), please refer to Recreation.gov or contact the South Park Ranger District directly.

Eleven Mile Canyon, managed by Canyon Enterprises Inc., is an incredibly suitable destination for locals across Colorado, especially those in the Front Range and central parts of the state. Its relatively accessible location near Florissant makes it a convenient day trip or weekend adventure for Denver, Colorado Springs, and other urban dwellers seeking a quick escape into the true Rocky Mountain wilderness. For Coloradans who value exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities in a managed, yet wild, setting, Eleven Mile Canyon provides an unparalleled experience.

The canyon's reputation for "world-class fly fishing" on the South Platte River is a major draw for the local angling community, offering some of the best trout fishing in the state just a short drive away. Beyond fishing, the vast opportunities for "hiking," "rock climbing," and simply enjoying "gorgeous views" ensure there's something for every type of outdoor enthusiast. The beauty of the canyon provides a stunning backdrop for photography and simply unwinding in nature.

While some locals have voiced opinions regarding the management structure and the associated entrance fee, it’s important to recognize that this fee contributes to the ongoing maintenance and preservation of this popular area. For many, the fee is a small price to pay for access to such a unique and well-maintained natural resource that helps prevent overcrowding and degradation. The slight inconvenience of a fee or a brief interaction with staff, even if occasionally perceived negatively, often pales in comparison to the immense value derived from spending time in this spectacular Colorado landscape. Eleven Mile Canyon, with its diverse recreational offerings and stunning scenery, remains a top choice for Coloradans looking to connect with the majestic outdoors close to home.

Canyon Enterprises Inc

1010 Co Rd 96, Florissant, CO 80816, USA