It is a long two day haul to the Deer Lodge Campground for the Arizona and Southern California drivers. Or a 3 hour jaunt to Vernal if flying as 3 did. Once past Fruita, this was new country for most. It was the first time topping out Douglas Pass for me. This could well be my favorite launch ramp with toilets, potable water, huge cottonwoods, firepits, and tables. The main risk would be an eroding river bank. We are somewhat taken aback by how big and fast the river is, especially knowing it hasn't yet entered the Yampa canyon system.