Chukar Boat Launch is the primary put-in for floating the challenging Class III-IV rapids of Gunnison Gorge Wilderness. Access requires a 7-mile primitive 4WD road (often impassable when wet) to the trailhead, followed by a 1.

1-mile wilderness hike where all gear and boats must be carried down; a commercial horse packing service is available seasonally for gear transport.

Wilderness permits ($3-15 per person) must be purchased at the trailhead, and boaters must register at the launch site and reserve campsites on a first-come, first-served basis the day of launch.