Gunnison River Kayaking

Beginner Colorado Kayak Trips

Up the adventure on any of our guided Gunnison River tours in a kayak. Paddle through scenic canyons, calm pools, and splashy class I/II rapids in one of our super-stable inflatable kayaks. These trips are perfect for anyone looking for extra thrills, and appropriate for beginners of all ages. Our professional instructors will show you the ropes at the beach, and guide you through the remote canyons and beginner-level river features that you will encounter along the way. You can choose to paddle your own boat, or share a 2-person tandem kayak.

Discover Colorado's National Conservation Areas

Colorado has designated 3 National Conservation Areas (NCA's) for their scenic beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural history. The best, and sometimes only, way to experience these remote areas is by river. We offer guided kayak adventures in each of these breath taking locations: The Gunnison Gorge, Dominguez-Escalante, and McInnis Canyons.

One Price All Inclusive kayaking

Our river trips include wetsuit, booties, and splashtop rentals, transportation from our shop to and from the river, world class guides, and delicious locally sourced meals. We never charge hidden fees.

Gunnison Gorge NCA (I/II)

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Discover a hidden world only 10-minutes from our shop in Hotchkiss, Colorado. Enjoy spectacular canyon scenery, splash through small waves, swim in the cool waters of the Gunnison River, view bald eagles, great blue heron and more!

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Dominguez Escalante NCA (i/ii)

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Experience Colorado canyon country at its best in this pristine wilderness area. Paddle the Gunnison River beneath towering red-rock walls, passing historic orchards and meeting beginner-level river rapids along the way.

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Multi Day Colorado Kayak Trips

Join Western Slope SUP for up to 3 days of all-inclusive rafting in Colorado and Utah. Go for an overnight rafting trip in the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area, or a multi-day fully catered rafting adventure through Ruby and Horsethief Canyons on the Colorado River. Instructors will be available on and off the river to ensure your comfort, and take care of all your needs. A multi-day river tour with Western Slope SUP is the perfect opportunity to re-connect with family and friends, and unwind on the river.

Included:

  • All river and camping equipment (no additional rental fees)
  • All meals, prepared by your guides
  • Transportation
  • 1-3 guides
  • One price (no additional use fees)

Gunnison gorge overnight Kayaking

Ruby Horsethief Multi Day Kayaking

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Take your time exploring the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area. Raft through crystal clear waters, discover ancient archaeology, hike winding side canyons, and much more!

Overnight itineraries begin at $425

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Our ultimate overnight river adventure. Spend two or three unforgettable days deep in the colorful canyons of the Colorado River. Enjoy camping, hiking, and all the river time you need!

3-day trips begin at $625

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Colorado Kayaking FAQ

All of our guided kayaking trips are appropriate for beginners with no previous experience. The most challenging rapids we will encounter on these trips are class II, which consist of small waves and chutes. Your guide will always lead the way and help you navigate through these features. Participants must be physically fit enough to get in and out of their kayak, and paddle their boat for the duration of their chosen trip.