Budge’s Wilderness Lodge

About Us

Budge’s Wilderness Lodge sits on the banks of a remote and scenic river, surrounded by wilderness on three sides. From the lodge, the river stretches into the Wilderness both upstream and downstream, where it’s accessible by foot and horseback only. Budge’s is the only outfitter on nearly 20 miles of this roadless river valley and is Colorado’s only Orvis Endorsed wilderness fly fishing expedition.

What we do

Anglers can choose a lodge-based trip, where you’ll stay in a log cabin, go out into the wilderness each day to fish, and then return to the lodge and cabins each evening for home cooked meals and a convivial lodge atmosphere. Or, we can pack up the mules, saddle up, and strike off for a remote wilderness camp with canvas tents and campfire meals. Either way, you’ll have the opportunity to experience some of the best backcountry fly fishing in the west.

Horseback-accessed fly fishing is a unique experience and it’s a great way to explore this wild country. Our outstanding crew of guides and wranglers will see that you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. No horseback riding experience is necessary; our horses and mules are gentle and well-trained, perfect for beginner riders. Anglers who would rather not get on a horse can set off on foot into the wilderness with their guide. No fly fishing experience is necessary. Our guides are patient and excellent teachers. There’s no better place to learn how to fly fish than on these pristine, unpressured waters.

Where we do it

Budge’s Wilderness Lodge is located near the headwaters of the White River, a roadless river valley that’s accessible only by foot or horseback. The Flat Tops is the second-largest wilderness area in Colorado, encompassing more than 360 square miles of wild country, We are the only permitted outfitter on nearly 20 miles of wilderness river, smaller creeks, and several high alpine lakes.

Upstream from the lodge, we enjoy fishing expansive high alpine meadows, home to Colorado River cutthroat and brook trout. Downstream from the lodge, we enjoy fishing a scenic, rocky canyon that’s home to rainbow and cutthroat trout.

From our opening day on June 28 through early October, this wild river offers some of the best dry fly fishing anywhere in the west. We see prolific hatches of a variety of mayflies, stoneflies, and caddis. From late-July through September, the hopper fishing is a highlight.

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