Hermosa Creek
(Behind Purgatory Mountain)
Tucked away behind Purgatory Ski Resort, Hermosa Creek is a pristine, high-altitude fishery that offers a classic small-stream fly fishing experience. Unlike the mighty Animas, Hermosa Creek is narrower, wilder, and teeming with native cutthroat, brook trout, and rainbow trout. Winding through dense forests and rugged canyons, this freestone creek is a paradise for anglers who enjoy stealthy presentations, dry fly action, and the solitude of backcountry waters. Whether you’re casting in the wider sections near the trailhead or venturing upstream into its remote pocket water, Hermosa Creek is a must-visit for fly fishers looking for an authentic Colorado mountain stream experience.
A Creek with History:
Conservation & Restoration Efforts
Hermosa Creek has long been a critical habitat for native fish species, particularly Colorado River cutthroat trout. Over the years, conservation projects have worked to remove non-native species and restore cutthroat populations in key sections of the creek. In 2014, the Hermosa Creek Watershed Protection Act designated over 107,000 acres of the region as protected wilderness, ensuring this fishery remains wild and accessible for future generations. Thanks to these efforts, Hermosa Creek continues to be a thriving, self-sustaining fishery that offers some of the best small-stream fly fishing in the San Juans.
Fishing Highlights: Small Stream Action & Wild Trout
Classic Dry Fly Fishing:
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Hermosa Creek is a dry fly angler’s paradise, especially in the summer months when trout eagerly rise to small caddis, mayflies, and terrestrials.
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Fish are small but aggressive, making for exciting action on lightweight rods (2-4wt).
Best Sections to Fish:
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Lower Hermosa (Near Trailhead & Campground): Easier access, bigger pools, and a mix of cutthroat, brookies, and rainbows.
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Upper Hermosa (Hike-In Waters): More technical pocket water, with a higher concentration of native cutthroat.
Prime Fishing Seasons:
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Spring: Runoff can be strong, but pre-runoff days offer great bugger and dropper action.
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Summer: Peak season for dry flies, with fish aggressively feeding on hoppers, ants, caddis, and mayflies.
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Fall: Cooler temperatures bring active fish and stunning fall colors.
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Winter: Possible in lower stretches, but expect slow fishing due to ice and cold water temps.
Hermosa Hatches
Hatches:
Hermosa Creek is one of the first high-country streams to fish in the summer, typically becoming productive by late May to early June as runoff subsides. The prime fishing season runs from June through October, with dry flies dominating the action. Blue-winged olives (BWOs) and caddisflies kick off the season in late spring, followed by pale morning duns (PMDs) and yellow sally stoneflies in early summer. By mid-summer, terrestrials like hoppers, beetles, and ants become key as trout aggressively feed on the surface. Caddis hatches remain strong throughout the summer, while fall brings another wave of BWOs and smaller midges as temperatures cool. Due to its high elevation and colder water temperatures, Hermosa Creek typically fishes best from late May through October, with limited action in the colder months.e
Fishing Regulations:
Hermosa Creek is managed as a wild trout fishery, with regulations in place to protect its native cutthroat trout population. Anglers fishing above the fish weir must practice catch and release on all cutthroat trout, ensuring the continued success of conservation efforts in the area. The entire creek is designated barbless fly and lure only, meaning no bait fishing is allowed. These regulations help maintain the creek’s pristine ecosystem and ensure that future generations can enjoy its healthy populations of native and wild trout. Always check Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW) regulations for any seasonal updates or changes before heading out.
Exploring Hermosa Creek: Fishing Access
Hermosa Creek offers a true backcountry fishing experience while still being accessible from Purgatory Resort and the Hermosa Creek Trailhead. Whether you’re looking for a quick afternoon trip or a multi-day adventure, this creek provides endless miles of fishable water with minimal pressure.
Anglers can access the creek from:
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Hermosa Park Road (FS Road 578) – Primary access near the campground and trailhead.
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Hermosa Creek Trail (FS Trail 514) – Leads into the wilderness for those willing to hike.
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Upper Hermosa (Hike-In Only) – Offers the best chance at pure-strain cutthroat trout.
This hidden gem is perfect for those seeking solitude, wild trout, and technical small-stream fishing.
