At A Glance
Months:
June - Aug
Kayaking in Vail, Colorado
Dreaming of paddling through Vail’s alpine scenery but not sure where to begin? Uncover the best spots to explore, trusted local outfitters and everything you need to plan your next on-the-water adventure.
Where to Kayak Around Vail
Discover your ideal paddling spot near the villages, whether you prefer serene locales with jaw-dropping panoramas and still waters or churning rapids that test your skills and get your heart pumping.
Pro Tip: Always wear a life jacket while on the water and follow safety precautions — river conditions can be unpredictable and dangerous. Booking a professional guide is a smart choice, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or conditions, as they can help find routes that are both thrilling and safe.
Gore Creek
Every year snowmelt from the surrounding peaks transforms this sleepy stream into an adrenaline-filled playground with its own whitewater park. Kayakers flock to the Gore Creek to push themselves to their limits against these rushing waters, especially during the speed and agility competitions of the annual GoPro Mountain Games.
Piney Lake
Just 12 miles north of Vail Village, Piney Lake offers a tranquil atmosphere with easy paddling — especially for beginners. Cast off from Piney River Ranch, a seasonal, 40-acre retreat along the lake’s edge. The ranch only offers canoe and SUP rentals, but you’re welcome to BYOKayak and purchase a pass to use their boat launch. You’ll also want to bring your phone along — in a waterproof bag of course — for kayaking selfies with the rugged Gore Range and a thick pine forest as your picture-perfect backdrop.
Eagle River & Colorado River
Follow the Gore Creek past West Vail and you’ll see where it flows into the Eagle River. Another scenic waterway worth exploring, the river boasts an array of paddling conditions with sections of swift rapids, larger waves and significant drops for advanced kayakers — and easy routes with slower currents and fewer obstacles for beginners. The Colorado River offers a full range of kayaking experiences, too, from gentle, kid-friendly waters to hardcore whitewater that should only be attempted by highly-trained paddlers. Ask a local outfitter for tips on the best places to embark via kayak locally.
Find Kayaking Outfitters Serving Vail
Check out knowledgeable, local professionals for everything from kayaking gear to lessons to guided trips.
Alpine Kayak
With a focus on education, Alpine Kayak offers four-day kayaking camps (June–August) with three course levels for kids ages 8–17. Adults can also learn the sport with private one-on-one sessions to master the basics or refine advanced skills. For a shared experience, schedule a group lesson with friends or family — just make sure everyone has similar level skills and is at least 11 years old.
Sage Outdoor Adventures
Travel down the Colorado River on an inflatable kayak (also called a duckie) from Sage Outdoor Adventures. Water activities are self-guided, so you can take your time to admire the wildlife, indulge in a leisurely picnic or race downstream for a good workout. Just be sure to follow Leave No Trace Principles and return your rentals back by 5 p.m.
Alpine Quest Sports
Forgot your helmet, skirt or wetsuit at home? Alpine Quest Sports has you covered with single-item equipment rentals, or skip the packing and borrow everything you need with a kayak package. You can even plan an overnight trip with items like sleeping bags and tents.
Lakota Guides
Planning an extended summer Vailcation? With Lakota Guides you can secure multi-day equipment rentals including life jackets, wetsuits, paddles and single or double duckies for the whole family. Their friendly team can point you to fun, local waterways for your group — but be prepared to transport your own gear.
Kayaking in Vail FAQs
When is the best time of year for kayaking near Vail?
Kayaking season typically runs from June to September, though its timing all depends on winter snowmelt and changing water levels. Before heading out, check out local river safety tips to make the most of your adventure.
Should I book my kayaking trip or equipment rental in advance?
Yes, when possible book your equipment and excursions several weeks ahead of time as outfitters may sell out of supplies and tour slots. Check with your chosen outfitter to learn about their specific reservation policy. If you’re suddenly bit by the kayaking bug, midweek is likely the best time for last-minute rentals.
Do I need prior kayaking experience?
Tranquil lakes invite even first-time paddlers, but more demanding routes with extended whitewater sections call for seasoned skills and experience. Guided kayaking tours provide insights for navigating tricky sections of a river for beginners.
Can families with kids go kayaking?
Yes, kayaking is open to adults and kids alike with several outfitters providing child-sized gear and family-friendly fun. For families, guided excursions and sticking to calm waters are the best ways to ensure your whole crew has a fun, memorable and safe kayaking experience.
What should I bring to kayak near Vail?
For guided trips, your local expert can tell you exactly what you’ll need for your specific trip and what items they’ll provide. Otherwise, you’ll want to pack safety equipment (including a first aid kit and life jackets), water shoes, sunscreen, a towel, sunglasses, a water bottle, a waterproof bag and a change of clothes.
If You Love Kayaking, You Should Try . . .
Want more water-based activities? Book a whitewater-rafting trip with friends and family for a memorable day of waves, splashes and smiles. For calmer activities, bring your rod and reel for fly-fishing trout-rich waters like the Gore Creek or rent a stand-up paddleboard to explore the gentle waters of nearby lakes. Families with youngsters can also check out water features like the Children’s Fountain throughout the villages — perfect for cooling off on a sunny summer day.
