Gunnison Gorge SUP + Kayak

Highlights

Description

The Gunnison Gorge SUP + Kayak tour is Colorado’s most inviting river canyon adventure. Launching just outside Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, the river flows through a dramatic landscape of red, yellow, and orange cliffs, the West Elk Wilderness, and the Grand Mesa. This trip begins with a 30-minute skills session on land and water, ensuring every participant feels comfortable before tackling the gorge. Once on the water, you’ll paddle roughly 5–14 miles depending on the tour length. The river offers calm stretches for relaxed floating, punctuated by gentle Class II rapids that add excitement without intimidation. Guides provide personalized coaching throughout, helping SUP riders learn to kneel, sit, and ultimately stand confidently through the features. Along the way, the canyon reveals its wildlife: bald eagles soaring overhead, herons stalking the shallows, bighorn sheep on the slopes, and trout flashing beneath the boards in these gold medal waters. On 3/4-day and full-day tours, you’ll enjoy a locally sourced riverside lunch and even a short walk to Colorado’s oldest archaeological site. The full-day adds additional miles downstream and more chances to refine your skills. Whether you’re new to paddling or looking for a fun family outing, this trip blends instruction, natural beauty, and adventure into one unforgettable day. With wetsuits, splash tops, and all equipment included, all you need is your swimsuit and a sense of adventure.

Itinerary

9:30 AM – Meet guide and group; safety briefing and gear issued
10:00 AM – Land and water instruction in calm eddy
10:30 AM – Launch into Gunnison Gorge, begin paddling calm water stretches
11:15 AM – Navigate first sets of small Class II rapids with guidance
12:00 PM – Wildlife viewing stops and personalized instruction
12:30 PM – Half-day guests return to take-out
1:00 PM – 3/4-day continues to swim hole and riverside lunch
2:00 PM – Optional short hike to archaeological site
2:30 PM – Resume paddling, mix of calm waters and rapids
3:30 PM – Full-day guests continue farther downstream with additional rapids
4:30 PM – Return shuttles to base, gear return and wrap-up

Price & Availability

Half Day: $99 adult / $94 youth, ~4 hrs; 3/4 Day: $119–$145 pp, includes lunch, ~5 hrs; Full Day: $129–$165 pp, includes lunch, ~7 hrs. 50% deposit due at booking; balance due 72 hrs prior; 72-hr cancellation policy.

Food & Drink

Locally sourced riverside lunch on 3/4 and full-day trips only

Instructions

Arrive 20–30 minutes early; meeting point provided in confirmation; all gear included; trips run May–October

Restrictions

Ages 10+ SUP/kayak; 6+ tandem kayak; 3+ raft; must be able to kneel or stand 2 hrs; moderate fitness recommended

Transportation

Shuttle transportation provided to/from river access