Colorado River Tubing, Kayaking & SUP

Tubing down one of Colorado’s many scenic rivers is a great way to spend a hot, sunny day. Enjoy an adrenaline pumping ride down some whitewater or a take it easy with a float down a gentle, lazy river. All of these locations are open to kayaks.

River Tubing and Kayaking in Colorado

Arkansas River Buena Vista	Arkansas River Pueblo	Arkansas River Salida
Blue River Breckenridge	Boulder Creek Boulder	Clear Creek Golden
Colorado River Eagle	Colorado River Glenwood Springs	Eagle River Avon
Gore Creek Vail	Gunnison River Gunnison	North Saint Vrain Lyons
San Juan River Pagosa Springs	South Platte River Denver	Yampa River Steamboat Springs

Guide to River Tubing, Kayaking & SUP in Colorado

Floating the Colorado River. Photo: Heath Alseike

Floating down an alpine river is fun and only costs a little money up front for a tube. The season runs from around June to September, depending on conditions. Planning is important, so make sure the river conditions are good and you’re not tubing alone.

Both river tubing and kayaking can be dangerous, so please be careful. A helmet and life vest are a smart idea. It’s also best to go with at least one friend and know your route, and where you plan to enter and exit the river.

<br /> Since the river water flows from high in the Rocky Mountains, expect it be cold. It does warm up as the season progresses, though it’s always a wake up call when you first dip in. Be careful bringing sunglasses, as they often get lost in the whitewater, as do flip flops and other non-attached footwear. If it’s valuable, it’s best left at home (aside from you of course).

What to bring tubing

Tube – The bigger tubes (affiliate link) are usually better and more durable for taking bumps. Walmart and sporting goods stores sell tubes. The ones with the nets in the middle are pretty nice and run near $30. Stay away from the dollar store knockoffs.
Swimsuit and Shoes – rubber water shoes or old sneakers – don’t wear flip-flops or expensive jewelry because they get lost, no glass
Sunglasses and Sunscreen – you could lose your sunglasses, so cheap ones are best
Air Pump – for tube, optional
Life Jacket – required for kids 12 and under
If you’re going on a longer tubing trip, bring two cars to shuttle. Park one at the finish and then have everyone take one car to the start.

Other inflatable options

Inflatable watercraft, whether boats, tubes, kayaks, or stand-up paddle boards allow you to easily and affordably transport your gear to the water. Inflatable options range in quality, size and price. You can find seriously-well built, durable inflatable craft perfect for your summer fix.

Some inflatable boats can be purchased for less than $100. This grants you access to fun lakes and rivers, allowing you to just cruise around or find the perfect fishing spot. Some models even allow you to attach a motor to them, ensuring you have an easy time getting around.