Inflatable Kayaking on Upper Colorado River: Half-Day Paddle

Four hours paddling your own inflatable kayak through the Upper Colorado's riffles

Inflatable kayaking on the Upper Colorado River near Kremmling is a half-day activity where you paddle your own kayak, called a ducky, with a guide accompanying the group. You control the pace through the riffles while wearing a helmet, wet suit and splash jacket. The operator provides all gear. Children from age 10 are welcome, and a moderate fitness level is needed.

The experience

You're in the kayak from the start. Unlike a guided tour where you watch from a boat, you're paddling an inflatable kayak on your own, splashing through the riffles of the Upper Colorado at whatever pace suits you. A guide stays with the group but doesn't paddle for you. They're there to lead the route and keep things safe. The whole outing runs four hours, which gives you time to settle into the rhythm without a full-day commitment.

The gear is sorted before you launch: helmet, wet suit and splash jacket come with the kayak rental, so you're protected and ready to move. You'll need secure footwear (no flip-flops or crocs), and the operator asks that you have at least a moderate level of fitness to handle paddling and the physical demands of the water. Kids from age 10 can join if they meet the weight minimum of 50 pounds.

The trip departs from Kremmling, which means you'll need to arrange your own way there if you don't have a car. Once you're on the water, the beauty of the Upper Colorado unfolds as you paddle through it rather than watching it pass.

What’s included

• Use of an inflatable kayak, helmet, wet suit and splash jacket.
• a live guide in English for the four-hour paddle.
• access to the Upper Colorado River riffles at your own pace.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 15 May 2027

Book up to4h before

AgesAdult (13 to 70 years) · Child (10 to 12 years) · Under 10: can't be booked

GroupUp to 10

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 14 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effort

Operated by AVA Rafting and Zipline

Is this one for you?You depart from Kremmling, so you'll need your own transport to get there. If you're staying in Breckenridge or elsewhere without a car, arrange a ride or rental beforehand. The four-hour window and self-guided paddling suit someone who wants to be in control of the experience rather than watching from a boat.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (10 to 12 years). Children under 10 can't be included in the booking.

What exactly is an inflatable kayak, and is it different from a regular kayak?

An inflatable kayak, called a ducky on this trip, is a sturdy, air-filled boat you paddle yourself. It's more forgiving than a hard kayak for beginners and handles the riffles of the Upper Colorado well, letting you control your own speed and direction through the water.

Do I need kayaking experience to book this trip?

No prior experience is required. The trip welcomes people trying something new, and the guide will lead you through the route. You do need a moderate level of physical fitness to paddle for four hours and handle the river conditions.

What happens if I'm not comfortable in the water or get nervous on the river?

The guide stays with your group throughout, and you're wearing a helmet and life jacket for safety. You set the pace. If you need to slow down or take a break, you can. The riffles are manageable for someone with moderate fitness, not extreme whitewater.

Can my 10-year-old come kayaking with me?

Children from age 10 are welcome on the trip, provided they weigh at least 50 pounds and have moderate fitness. They'll paddle their own kayak with the same gear and guide support as adults.

What's included in the price, and what do I need to bring?

The inflatable kayak, helmet, wet suit and splash jacket are all included. Bring secure footwear, a towel and any personal items you want to keep dry. Food, drinks and transportation to Kremmling are not included, so plan accordingly.