Chalk Creek

Chalk Creek is a river flowing east from the Collegiate Peaks mountain range in Chaffee County, Colorado. Mt. Antero borders the southern side of the river, while Mt.Princeton borders the northern side. The headwaters of the river are located at the boundary of the Continental Divide. The river empties into the Arkansas River at the town of Nathrop, Colorado.

The river is named after the magnificent white kaolinite cliffs that stand at the entrance to the Chalk Creek valley and are a result of hot springs deposits. These white cliffs are visible for miles in all directions and stand in stark contrast to the otherwise wooded surrounding mountains. Stands of aspen trees and evergreens of various species surround the river for its entire length.

The river is surrounded by a mix of privately owned and US forest service land. Campgrounds and public trails, including the Colorado Trail, are located along the length of the river. Several hot springs emerge in this valley.

Chalk Creek is home to several species of fish, including the Brook Trout, Cutthroat Trout, Brown Trout and the Rainbow Trout. There is public access throughout the canyon, but fewer anglers can be found above St. Elmo.

View Chalk Creek in a larger map

Directions - 110 miles - 2.5 Hours

1. From Angler's Covey head west on US 24 W/Cimarron St, go 74.8 miles
2. Turn left at US-24 W/US-285 S go 13.6 miles
3. Turn left at US-285 S in Johnson Village, go 5.6
4. Turn right at Nathrop on Chalk Creek Dr/Co Rd 162, go 5.8 miles to reach the month on the canyon.
5. St Elmo is 10 miles upstream