Hanging Flume - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

 Hanging Flume is a picturesque spot that offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Hiking is a popular option, as there are numerous trails of varying difficulty level that wind through the area. For those looking for a more challenging hike, the Flume Trail provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Other popular activities include fishing and picnicking. The banks of the nearby Gunnison River are a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal, and anglers can cast their lines in search of rainbow trout and other freshwater fish.

 The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great place to go birdwatching or simply enjoy the sounds of nature.

In the late 1860s, gold was discovered in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado. This led to a boom in mining activity, and soon a network of flumes was built to transport ore from the mines to the nearby town of Montrose. The most impressive of these was the Hanging Flume, which stretched for nearly eight miles along the side of a mountain. This particular flume was built in 1892 and was used to transport water from the Gunnison River to the Uncompahgre Valley. The flume is approximately six miles long and hangs nearly 250 feet above the river below. It is believed to be the longest water flume in the world, and it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 

The best time to visit the Hanging Flume is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. during these seasons, you'll also have a better chance of seeing wildlife in the area.

1. Plan your visit for early morning or evening. The midday sun can be intense in the canyon, making hiking difficult.
2. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing. The trail is rocky in places and there are some steep sections.
3. Take your time and enjoy the journey. The flume is over two miles long, so there's no need to rush through it.

4. Take a scenic drive on Loggers Loop Road. This winding road takes you through the heart of the Hanging Flume area and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

5. Visit the Visitor Center to learn more about the history of the Hanging Flume. The Visitor Center is located at the trailhead and is open daily from 9:00am to 4:30pm.

6. Explore one of the many ghost towns in the area. Many of these abandoned mining towns offer a glimpse into Colorado's rich history.

7. Go fishing in one of the many streams and lakes in the area. A valid Colorado fishing license is required for all anglers 16 years of age or older.
    

1. The flume is made of redwood and is suspended from the canyon walls by a system of cables and support beams.
2. The flume is 1,800 feet long and hangs up to 400 feet above the canyon floor.
3. The flume was originally built with a hand-operated pulley system that was used to haul buckets of water across the canyon.
4. In 1971, the flume was designated as a National Historic Landmark by the United States government.
5. In addition to its engineering significance, the flume is also home to a diverse array of plant and animal life, including several rare species.
6. The name “Hanging Flume” comes from the fact that the structure is suspended from cliffs rather than being Supported by piles driven into the ground.

It typically takes about four hours to explore the entire flume. However, depending on the pace and how often you stop to take in the scenery, it could take longer. 

Reaching the Hanging Flume is relatively easy. The trailhead is located just off Highway 50, about 15 miles west of Montrose. From the trailhead, it is an easy hike of about 1.5 miles to reach the flume.

Admission to the Hanging Flume is $5 for adults and $3 for children ages 6-12. Children 5 and under are free.

The flume is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, and it is closed during the winter months. During the summer, the flume is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and during the winter, it is open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.