August 14, 2026
Is it really already the middle of August?
Summer seems to fly by every year, but especially here at Kebler Corner. We’re still enjoying warm afternoons, cool mountain evenings, and plenty of summer adventures—but before we know it, the aspens will begin turning gold and leaf-peeping season will be here.
If you’re thinking about a late-summer or early-fall getaway, now is a great time to start planning. Here’s what’s happening around Kebler Corner and the North Fork Valley this week.
Fall Colors Are Just Around the Corner
It may still feel like summer, but Colorado’s fall color season will be here before we know it. One of the best things about fall in our corner of Colorado is that the changing colors don’t happen all at once. Elevation plays a major role in when the aspens begin to turn, which means there is a window of time to enjoy fall color at different elevations throughout the mountains.
If you’re already dreaming about golden aspen groves, scenic mountain drives, and crisp fall mornings, now is the time to start planning your trip. We love this guide from Follow Tiff’s Journey for a helpful overview of when and where to see fall colors in Colorado, including how elevation affects the timing of the season.
Check it out: Colorado Fall Colors by Elevation
And of course, we’ll be keeping an eye on the aspens around Kebler Pass as the season approaches. Fall is one of the most beautiful times of year to visit the North Fork Valley—and one of our favorite seasons at Kebler Corner.
Upcoming Events in the North Fork Valley
There is still plenty happening before summer winds down!
Pickin’ in the Park | Thursday, August 20
Paonia’s free summer concert series continues Thursday night with Oh He Dead, joined by special guests Eli Emmitt Band and Jackson Bookout.
Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy live music under the summer sky at Paonia Town Park. The concert starts at 6 PM, and admission is free. Local food and beverage vendors and a Kids Zone are also available.
When: Thursday, August 20 at 6 PM
Where: Paonia Town Park
Admission: FREE
Learn more about Pickin’ in the Park
Brush & Barrel at Kebler Corner
We’re also looking forward to our Brush & Barrel event right here at Kebler Corner!
Grab a drink, paint the beautiful West Beckwith mountain, and enjoy a relaxed evening surrounded by nature. Whether you’re an experienced artist or have never picked up a paintbrush before, it’s a fun way to spend an evening at camp!
$50/person includes wine & art supplies. Email emily@keblercorner.com to register!
End-of-Summer Celebration & Free Concert | Tuesday, August 25
As summer starts winding down, the North Fork Valley is sending it off with a free community concert.
Head to the park behind Zack’s BBQ in Hotchkiss on Tuesday, August 25 for an evening featuring North Fork Guitar Club at 6 PM followed by Liquid Velvet at 7 PM. There will also be lawn games, community activities, and complimentary hot dogs provided by Zack’s BBQ and Three20 Bar & Grill.
When: Tuesday, August 25 | Doors at 5 PM
Where: Behind Zack’s BBQ in Hotchkiss
Cost: FREE
It’s a great excuse to get out, enjoy some live music, and make the most of the last weeks of summer.
More information about the End-of-Summer Celebration
Anthracite Creek Fly Fishing Report | Week of August 14
Late-summer fishing is here on Anthracite Creek, with lower summer flows and a variety of summer insects keeping trout active.
What We’re Seeing
August is a great time to get out early and take advantage of cooler morning temperatures. As the day warms up, look for fish holding in shaded water, deeper pools, and areas with a little more current.
Anthracite Creek’s late-summer insect activity can include Yellow Sallies, Golden Stones, Pale Morning Duns, and Green Drakes, giving anglers several options to match what’s happening on the water.
Flies to Try
- Chubby Chernobyl
- Yellow Stimulator
- Yellow Sally patterns
- Elk Hair Caddis
- Parachute Adams
- PMD patterns
- Green Drake patterns
- Pheasant Tail
- Hare’s Ear
- Copper John
A dry-dropper setup is a great option this time of year, allowing you to cover both the surface and the deeper water where trout may be holding.
Best Times to Fish
Early morning and evening are your best bets, particularly on warm summer days. Look for shaded pockets, deeper pools, riffles, and seams where faster water meets slower water.
As always, take a few minutes to observe the creek before choosing your fly. Matching what’s actually hatching can make all the difference.
Current Fire Restrictions
We have been grateful for the recent rain we’ve received around the North Fork Valley. Every bit of moisture helps, but conditions remain dry across the region and wildfire danger is still a serious concern.
Gunnison County is currently under Stage 2 Fire Restrictions, and Kebler Corner is also operating under Stage 2 restrictions. The county continues to provide updates as conditions change.
Even with recent moisture, please don’t let a rainy afternoon give you a false sense of security. Wildfire conditions can change quickly, especially during periods of warm, dry weather.
We appreciate every guest doing their part to protect our campground, surrounding forest, and the communities we call home. Please follow all posted restrictions during your stay and check current conditions before heading into the mountains.
Helpful fire information links:
Gunnison County Stage Two Fire Restrictions
Gunnison County Current Wildfire Information
Current Fire Restrictions Map & Updates
Summer Isn’t Over Yet!
There’s still plenty of summer left to enjoy in the North Fork Valley. From free concerts and community events to fishing on Anthracite Creek and evenings around camp, August is a wonderful time to visit.
And if you’re already thinking about fall, don’t wait too long—those golden aspens will be here before we know it!
We’ll see you around camp.
Yours in camping,
Emily & Paul
