Kayaking Upper Colorado River: Navigate your own ducky

You steer the boat. The guide steers the day

Kayak the Upper Colorado River in a single or double inflatable kayak alongside a guide who runs the same stretch but lets you pick your own line through Class I–II rapids and occasional Class III whitewater. The trip lasts 3.5 hours and includes all safety and kayaking equipment, a splash jacket, and transportation from the boathouse to the put-in. Minimum age is 12. Moderate fitness is required.

The experience

What makes this different from a guided raft trip is the boat itself. An inflatable kayak, called a "ducky", is a sit-on-top rubber craft with multiple air chambers that puts you in control of the paddle and the steering. You follow the guide's route down the river, but you navigate your own boat through the water, choosing which line to take around obstacles and deciding how to handle each rapid. Single-person duckies work for solo paddlers. Double-person boats let you paddle with a friend.

The Upper Colorado River section here runs mild Class I–II rapids most of the year, with occasional Class III rapids when water flow peaks in early summer. The river winds through meadows, valleys, and rolling ranch lands before narrowing into steep canyon walls. Along the way, watch for bald eagles, deer, beavers, and bighorn sheep. You can paddle to sandy shores to approach geese, edge up to cliff faces, or navigate around smaller rocks: your curiosity and comfort level decide where the ducky goes. First-timers get help from the guide to get comfortable with the boat before you push off.

The trip runs about 3.5 hours total. Transportation from the boathouse to the put-in is included, along with all safety gear and a splash jacket. You'll need to be at least 12 years old and have moderate physical fitness to handle paddling and balance on the water. The boathouse location works for people near Winter Park, Breckenridge, Silverthorne, and Dillon.

What’s included

• A CAG river guide who runs alongside you.
• transportation from the boathouse to the put-in.
• all safety and kayaking equipment including the inflatable kayak and splash jacket.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 15 May 2027

AgesAdult (12 to 80 years) · Under 12: can't be booked

GroupUp to 6

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.It may be canceled if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 28 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Colorado Adventure Guides

Is this one for you?Choose this if you want to paddle your own boat instead of riding in a raft. You'll steer the ducky and pick your own line through the rapids while the guide navigates the same stretch and keeps an eye on the group. Single and double kayaks work for solo paddlers or pairs paddling together.

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Top questions

Can I kayak the Upper Colorado River if I've never paddled before?

Yes. The guides help first-timers get comfortable with the inflatable kayak before the trip starts, and the Class I–II rapids on most days are manageable for beginners. You'll have the guide alongside you the whole way.

What's the difference between a single and double kayak on this trip?

A single-person ducky is for solo paddlers who want to navigate on their own. A double-person boat seats two and lets you paddle with a friend or family member, sharing the work and the steering.

How rough does the water get on the Upper Colorado River?

Most of the year the river runs mild Class I–II rapids, which are gentle enough for families and beginners. In early summer when water flow is higher, occasional Class III rapids show up, making the ride more exciting if that's what you're after.

What wildlife might I see while kayaking?

The Upper Colorado River section is home to bald eagles, deer, beavers, and bighorn sheep. You'll paddle through meadows and valleys where these animals live, and you can steer toward sandy shores or cliff edges to get a closer look if you spot them.

How long does the whole trip take?

The kayaking portion lasts approximately 3.5 hours. That includes time on the water navigating the river, plus transportation from the boathouse to the put-in point before you start paddling.

What do I need to bring or wear?

Bring weather-appropriate clothing for sun and water splash. All safety equipment and the kayak itself are provided, including a splash jacket. You'll want to wear clothes that can get wet and secure footwear that won't slip off in the boat.