Gunnison Gorge NCA River Tour
Kayak, SUP & Raft
Difficulty: Beginner
Requirements:
Kayak - Ages 10+ for solo kayak, 6+ to ride in a tandem kayak
Stand Up Paddle Board - Age 10+. Must be able to stand or kneel for 2 hours
Raft - Ages 3+
Included: Guide, instruction, transportation, all equipment, no added rental fees.
Options: Join the trip in an inflatable Kayak, stand up paddle board, or guided raft
Season: May-October
The ultimate river experience in Western Colorado
Just outside the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area is the ideal Colorado destination to learn the art of river SUP, discover a scenic rafting journey, or enjoy a family kayak adventure. Take in warm Colorado sunshine, crystal clear water, and breathtaking scenery as you float through the most inviting river canyon in Colorado.
On this tour, we paddle through calm water, deep canyons and beginner level river features. These picturesque canyons are home to great blue heron, big horned sheep, deer, elk, and bald eagles. Along the way we will watch native trout swim right underneath us in these gold medal fishing waters. From start to finish we will be immersed in continuous views of red, yellow and orange canyon walls, the West Elk Wilderness and the Grand Mesa.
KAYAK
Single, or tandem kayaks are a great way to explore the Gunnison Gorge NCA. Our stable inflatable river kayaks are easy to master. After a little instruction you will be confidently splashing through the gentle waves of the Gunnison River. This kayak tour is appropriate for beginners of all ages.
Stand up paddle
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 paddle 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 Gorge NCA is 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 Gorge NCA.
RAFT
For the ultimate relaxing day on the river book your tour in a guided raft, the perfect option for families. See Scenic Float option to book.
Half Day:
All the instruction, plus 5 miles of down-river fun. We break half way for snacks and a delicious local beverage. A complete river SUP, kayak or raft experience, that leaves plenty of time in the day to visit the vineyards and orchards of the North Fork Valley.
Duration: 4 hours (Including shuttle, instruction and tour)
Length: 6 miles
Meet Times: 9:00 am
Half Day Rates: $97 adults, $94 age 12 + under
3/4 Day:
Our half day trip plus lunch, and a hike to Eagle Rock Shelter, At 13,000 years old, this is the oldest archaeological site in Colorado!
Duration: 5 hours (including shuttle, instruction and tour)
Length: 6 miles
Included: locally sourced river side lunch
Visit: ancient petroglyphs
Meet Time: 10:00 am
3/4 Day Rates: $119 adults, $114 age 12 + under
Full Day:
Spend the whole day immersed in nature on our full day trip. Explore the petroglyphs and ancient dwelling of Eagle Rock Shelter. Includes a river side lunch featuring ingredients from local North Fork Valley farms and orchards. Four extra miles of down-river fun!
Duration: 7 hours (including shuttle, instruction and tour)
Length: 10 miles
Included: locally sourced river side lunch
Visit: ancient petroglyphs
Meet Time: 9:00 am
Full Day Rates: $129 adults, $124 age 12 + under
Awesome time with Western Slope SUP!
“Kayaking on the river was definitely the highlight of my trip to the North Fork Valley. (The views are stunning!!) Western Slope SUP had such an easy reservation process and were very clear with all communication. They are a very organized and professional business, but also know how to have fun. That is the best combo! Special shout out to our fantastic guide Gordy, thank you for such a memorable trip! You are a truly kind human whose passion for adventure is evident. It was so fun spending time on the river with you. All the best!”
Sean C, Trip Advisor
related activities
GUNNISON GORGE SUP
The ultimate stand up paddle experience in Colorado. Learn to SUP the calm waters, and beginner rapids of the Gunnison Gorge NCA. Through small group sizes and personalized instruction, we will have you on your feet in no time!
gunnison gorge rafting
Family rafting does not get better than this. Float the scenic canyons of the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area, swim in its crystal clear waters, and splash through beginner class I/II whitewater rapids.
GUNNISON GORGE OVERNIGHT
Spend a night in the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area. River life has never been better on this fully catered, all-inclusive journey. Optional side hikes take you to the many wonders of the NCA, including the oldest archeological site in Colorado.