dominguez escalante river sup

full day stand up paddle river trip

Difficulty: Beginner

Duration: 7 hours (including shuttle, instruction and tour)

Length: 10 miles

Included: Guides, transportation, all equipment, locally sourced river side lunch

Visit: waterfall

Requirements:

Stand Up Paddle Board - Age 10+. Must be able to stand or kneel for 3 hours

Kayak - Ages 10+ for solo kayak, 6+ to ride in a tandem kayak

Raft - Ages 3+

Options: Join the trip on a stand up paddle board, inflatable Kayak or guided raft

Season: April-October

Meet Time: 8:00 am

Full Day Rates: $150 per person

river sup in colorado canyon country

Spend a full day immersed in stunning desert scenery, as you paddle through the heart of Dominguez & Escalante National Conservation Area. We will float the calm, tranquil waters of the Gunnison River which flow peacefully through this ancient landscape. These 800 foot deep canyons are home to big horned sheep, collard lizards, and elk.

Our day begins at Honey Rock Landing, one of the few orchards hidden in the canyon depths. If we are luck we may get a tour of the orchard, and an opportunity to pick fresh peaches. Upon launching, you will be awed by the wind-sculped canyon walls, and utter solitude of our natural surroundings. At mid-day we will take a break at the beach, where your guides will prepare a local, farm fresh lunch featuring organic ingredients sourced from North Fork Valley farms and orchards. Before our day is through you will have an opportunity to hike to a waterfall and bathe under its cascading waters. At the end of our day we will load into an air-conditioned van and ride back to Hotchkiss, reflecting on the peace and natural beauty we found in Dominguez & Escalante National Conservation Area.

STAND UP PADDLE

For stand up paddle boarders, this scenic river tour begins with instruction. Before launching you will spend 30 minutes with our professional instructors both on land and in the water learning basic SUP and river running skills. Once you are confident on your board, your instructor will guide you through a nature-made, desert water park, which has become the top-rated stand up paddle tour in Colorado.

Unlike most rivers in Colorado, the Gunnison especially suited to stand up paddle boarding. The river is calm enough for beginners to get their bearings, warm enough to enjoy a dip, and exciting enough for adventurers of all ages. The small waves, and beginner level river features along the way can be enjoyed standing, kneeling or sitting on your paddle board. By the end of your tour, everyone in your group will have the opportunity, and ability, to stand up through these small features. There is not another river in Colorado like the Gunnison.

KAYAK

Single, or tandem kayaks are a great way to explore Dominguez Escalante NCA. Our stable inflatable river kayaks are easy to master. After a little instruction you will be confidently splashing through the gentle waves and calm waters of the Gunnison River. This kayak tour is appropriate for beginners of all ages.

RAFT

For the ultimate relaxing day on the river book your tour in a guided raft, the perfect option for families. See rafting option to book.

Such a fabulous day!

I am so glad we booked the full day Paddleboard adventure! Our family of 5 (three kids ages 19-21) had the most fantastic time! Ben (aka Bob Cat) was the most amazing guide. He is so fun, personable, knowledgeable of the area, made sure we were safe at all times, gave us great lessons and encouraged us all day long, took fabulous pictures for us and overall made it one of our best adventures in Colorado! We had a delicious picnic lunch under a beautiful tree which is another great reason to take the full day tour! This outfitter is a gem and you'd be crazy not to spend the day with Ben!

Mandy K, Trip Advisor