Colsac III can hold up to fifteen normal-size cars or trucks, as well as bicycles and pedestrians, and is capable of transporting semi-trailers.

The state operates warning signs several miles from the ferry to alert motorists when it is not operating in season, as detours are considerable, and a traffic information system provides drivers with the expected wait time, which can be up to 50 minutes in peak season.

In 1844, Chester Mattson obtained a charter to provide ferry service at the present-day location.

According to conflicting sources, Mattson charged either 35 cents or $1 to ferry a team and wagon across the river.

As the Colsac II aged, periodic maintenance both grew expensive and took the ferry out of commission for weeks at a time.

The older boat's capacity was also frequently strained during the peak travel season, and weight limitations restricted truck traffic.

The state was unsuccessful in its attempt to sell the retired ferry, the Colsac II, using an Internet auction,[7] so the boat was eventually sold for scrap.