Summer’s Twilight
Late summer weather – fall colors – unmatched riding – superb fishing
Four nights at our remote Gates Park camp on the North Fork of the Sun River. Late summer warmth, fall nights. Elk begin to bugle at the meadows. Dry fly fishing is exceptionally active
An End of Summer Bob Marshall Adventure
Experience a wonderful week at our Gates Park camp on the North Fork of the Sun River. We spend four nights in this remote riverside location, giving you the time and flexibility to fully immerse yourself in the landscape without the rush of daily travel.
Ready for autumn in the Sun Valley?
5 days – 5 Available
August 26 to August 30, 2026
World-Class Fly Fishing
The warm summer days and cold water get the fish active for outstanding top-of-the-water action. You will have the river to yourself, and each day has new stretches, new holes, fresh scenery, and lots of trout. There are so many options to close out the summer that you’ll want to stay longer!
Hiking, Photos and Exploring
Exceptionally beautiful days with the strentght of summer upon us. Tons of day ride andn hiking options. Ride the lower Sun meadows. Ride/hike to Bear Top lookout. Swim in Gates Creek falls or the Sun River. Cruise at your own pace through the immense meadows of Gates Park. If you have an outdoor interest you’ll find a way to do it here.
Your Days in the Wilderness
Each day at Gates Park offers a balance of exploration and unhurried time in one of the most remote corners of the Bob Marshall Wilderness. With four nights in a single riverside camp, you’re free to fish, ride, hike, or simply take in the landscape without the pressure of daily travel. Whether you’re drawn to the river, high-country trails, or quiet moments in camp, every day unfolds at its own natural pace.
Activities & Experience
Ideal for Mixed Groups of Riders and Anglers
This trip is exceptionally well-suited for groups that include both fishermen and non-fishermen. Anglers can easily access multiple stretches of the Sun River from camp, either on foot or via short horseback rides, allowing us to target the best fishing conditions each day.
Non-fishermen enjoy outstanding day rides to destinations like Bear Top, Sock Lake, and other scenic points of interest. Hiking opportunities are plentiful, from meadow walks in Gates Park to trails along Gates Lake and the Sun River. The open ridges near camp are easy to navigate and frequently reward guests with wildlife sightings.
Weather
Warm weather, low humidity
This trip coincides with the beginning of our best fishing season. The river runs clear and cold, and trout aggressively feed on the surface. Dry-fly fishing is exceptional, with many anglers landing 60 or more fish per day. Certain holes produce rapid-fire action, with multiple fish caught in quick succession.
The Sun River is wild, beautiful, and remarkably uncrowded. Seeing another angler during your trip is rare.
Landscapes & Elevation
Unmatched Riding
This is our favorite part of the Bob Marshall. Situated at the head end of the big meadows of the lower North Fork, you will have the most varied landscape we can offer. High alpine meadows on the ride into and out of the mountains. Remnants of old growth timber, thousands of acres of regrowth, stunning aspen groves, secluded lakes, and fast mountain streams with waterfalls.
The elevation changes are substantial. We cross Headquarters Pass at 8,000 ft on the ride into and out of camp. This is a highly photographed pass due to it’s unique, impressive views into the Bob Marshall and out onto the Great Plains. Gates Park camp is at 5,400 ft. We also have options for day rides up to Bear Top Lookout at 8,300 ft.
What to Bring
Packing for Mid-Summer Comfort
As this is a 7 day travel trip, with modest travel days. Our recommended camping gear list is downloadable from the link below. As a summary however, you’ll want to keep in mind the following specifics about this trip. There are 4 travel days and 3 lay over days (non-traveling).
This trip covers some incredible country ranging from the beautiful vistas of the Sun Valley in early summer. The average riding day is 11 miles and we travel every other day. This trip has great opportunity for riders, photographers, hikers, fishermen, and explorers.
The things that are important and make your trip most comfortable are layered clothing appropriate for early summer. It can get hot during the day, but the nights will be surprising cool.
We can also get a thunderstorm on any given day, so you’ll need good rain gear that you can wear riding or hiking. Comforable hiking/riding shoes are a must, and a good assortment of hiking socks varying from light to medium weight. Also, you may consider chaps for riding, or silk under your jeans as we do have some ground to cover on horseback. This will mitigate chafing.
Your Fly Fishing Trip on the Forks of the Sun River
Fly Fishing at Its Peak
Gin-Clear Water and Aggressive Trout
This trip coincides with the beginning of our best fishing season. The river runs clear and cold, and trout aggressively feed on the surface. Dry-fly fishing is exceptional, with many anglers landing 60 or more fish per day. Certain holes produce rapid-fire action, with multiple fish caught in quick succession.
The Sun River is wild, beautiful, and remarkably uncrowded. Seeing another angler during your trip is rare.
Ready for Your Sun River Trip with Circle 8?
Four nights at our wilderness-luxurious Gates Park camp. Outstanding riding. Excellent fishing. Magnificent color changes as the seasons shift.