Updated: December 1st, 2023
Everyone has to take at least one road trip throughout the United States. Not just for the beautiful environment but also to get away from it all. There’s no hiding the fact that Colorado is a dreamland for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the nicest things to do in the summertime in Colorado, when the weather is warm and the sun is beaming almost nonstop, is to be near or on the water. Canoeing and kayaking provide a nice balance between the two activities.
The Vail Valley and the state of Colorado are prime paddling destinations for kayaking in Colorado, and Ptarmigan Sports is proud to give this guide to these waterways. Shop with us now for all of your camping and hiking equipment needs!
WHERE TO GO KAYAKING AND CANOEING IN COLORADO
There are several mountain rivers close by, so you can pick the best spots for floating or engaging in kayaking in Colorado. However, you should remember that whitewater kayaking is a difficult and demanding activity that may be quite risky if you aren’t experienced and well-versed in the river you will be paddling in. You can also engage in canoeing in Colorado.
With our local kayaking guide, kayaking in Colorado becomes easy, and paddlers of all skill levels may learn about and explore new businesses, services, and paddling hotspots. Whether you are a year-round resident of Vail, Co or simply in town for a vacation, you should make the most of Colorado’s spectacular natural scenery. The following are some of the top places for kayaking in Colorado.
EAGLE RIVER
During this time of year, when the Eagle River is at its lowest, float trips are a popular water activity. However, when water levels are high, kayaking and whitewater rafting in Colorado become the most popular options for whitewater aficionados. Eagle rapids range in difficulty from Class II to Class IV and are fed by snowmelt from the surrounding mountains. If you dare to go down the Dowd Chute, you will encounter whitewater classified as Class V by experts. The Eagle travels through juniper and cottonwood-dotted canyon walls.
COLORADO RIVER
With whitewater rapids ranging from easy to moderate (Class I, II, and III), this river is perfect for groups of all experience levels. The Shoshone River in Glenwood Canyon has continuous Class III rapids as one of the three most challenging commercial routes; the Gore Canyon segment is classified as Class V.
PINEY RIVER
Only experienced whitewater kayakers should attempt to navigate the Piney River. Rapids here range from Class III (for beginners) to Class VI (for experts). It is a beautiful river with aspen and spruce along its banks, and it all begins high in the Gore Range.
WHITEWATER PARK
The Whitewater Park in Vail may be found in the heart of Vail Village on the banks of Gore Creek. Because of its adaptable design, it provides a new set of rapids each year. The whitewater park is available from around the middle of May through the end of July, and the annual Teva Mountain Games are a lot of fun to witness.
GET READY FOR OUTDOOR ADVENTURES IN VAIL
You may find a wide variety of summertime activities in Vail, Colorado, that suit your tastes in outdoor recreation. Ptarmigan Sports is pleased to provide the equipment, apparel, and expert advice that residents, out-of-town guests, and those who have fallen in love with Vail and made Colorado their second home need to participate in practically any outdoor sport, no matter the season.
Whether your old gear has broken down and you need to get a new backpack or set of hiking boots, or you have decided on the spur of the moment to try out a new activity and want to buy all the gear you’ll need, our extensive variety is sure to have what you are looking for. Contact us or peruse our online catalog to get the perfect gear for kayaking, canoeing, and all your other summertime Vail pursuits.
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