Experience the river from a whole new perspective on an inflatable kayak adventure through the scenic Upper Colorado River canyon. Paddle your own stable sit-on-top kayak while following professional guides through calm stretches, playful rapids, and breathtaking canyon landscapes. Perfect for beginners, families, and adventure seekers, this guided experience combines fun, splashy excitement with incredible Rocky Mountain scenery. Choose between solo or tandem kayaks and enjoy a hands-on river adventure designed for all skill levels. Wildlife sightings, swimming holes, and unforgettable river views make this one of the best outdoor experiences near Vail.
Your adventure begins at Rancho Del Rio, where guests meet the guides, check in, and gear up for the river experience. After a safety orientation and paddling instruction, guests board a shuttle to the launch point along the Upper Colorado River.
Once on the water, guests paddle their own inflatable kayak, also known as a “ducky,” through scenic canyon stretches, calm river sections, and playful Class I–II rapids. Depending on river flow conditions, some Class III rapids may also be encountered for added excitement.
The trip offers opportunities to spot wildlife, enjoy mountain scenery, float through peaceful sections of river, and splash through fun rapids while learning paddling techniques from experienced guides.
This experience is designed for first-time kayakers as well as adventurous travelers looking for a fun and active way to explore Colorado’s rivers.
- Professional Local Guide
- Safety Equipment
- Watersport Equipment
- Quick-drying clothing
- Secure water shoes or sandals
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses with strap
- Hat for sun protection
- Water bottle
- Towels and dry clothes for after the trip
- Waterproof layers depending on weather
- Minimum age: 12 years old
- No prior kayaking experience required
- Guests should be comfortable around water
- Secure footwear required (no flip-flops or Crocs)
- Avoid cotton clothing
- Guests should arrive early for check-in
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Guides can wait approximately 5 minutes. Please arrive early to avoid missing the trip.
Check-In at Rancho Del Rio Meet guides and complete check-in at the Colorado Rafting Company boathouse.
Gear Up & Safety Briefing Receive kayaking equipment and paddling instructions from professional guides.
Shuttle to Launch Point Short transfer to the river put-in location.
Guided River Adventure Paddle through scenic sections of the Upper Colorado River with rapids, swimming holes, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Return Shuttle After reaching the take-out point, guests shuttle back to the Rancho Del Rio boathouse.
📍Bond, CO, United States
Complete location will be sent after booking.
$115 USD per person
Cancel or reschedule more than 48 hours before departure for a refund minus a 10% admin fee. No-shows are non-refundable.
Trips operate rain or shine. If unsafe river conditions occur, guests may reschedule or receive a full refund.
Do I need kayaking experience?
Are the kayaks stable?
Can I kayak solo?
What class rapids are included?
Meet Your Local Colorado Adventure Guides
Their offerings include rafting on some of Colorado’s most renowned rivers, as well as hiking, rock climbing, backcountry skiing, mountaineering, and summit expeditions. Backed by a highly experienced guide team and a commitment to exceptional guest service, they are also recognized as a leader in avalanche education, delivering both professional instruction and unforgettable mountain experiences.
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Luna · Concierge
Questions about this experience? Chat with Luna for help with dates, group size, or anything else.