Gunnison Gorge NCA Kayaking

Kayak, SUP & Raft

Difficulty: Beginner

Duration: 5 hours (including shuttle, instruction and tour)

Length: 6 miles

Departure Time: 10:00 am

Included: Guides, transportation, all equipment, delicious river side lunch, no additional rental fees

Not Included: Gratuities, personal items such as hat, sunscreen & water bottle

Options: Join the trip in an inflatable Kayak, stand up paddle board, or guided raft

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+

Minimum Trip Size: 3 participants

Season: May-October

Rates: $145 per person

  • 50% due at time of booking
  • Balance due 72 hours before departure
  • 72 hour cancellation policy

*Please arrive 20 minutes before departure*


The ultimate Western Colorado River experience

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.

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

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