Paddlesports Guide for Colorado

As summer heats up, head to the water to cool down! Colorado’s rivers and lakes are the perfect playground in summer. From stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) to kayaking and canoeing, there’s a watercraft for all ages and abilities. With plenty of places to rent gear and get instruction, adding a day (or two) on the water to your vacation itinerary is a must.

Stand-up paddleboarding (often referred to as SUP), in its modern form, has its roots in Hawaii and was invented out of surfing. The sport started gaining traction in the early 2000’s. Today you’ll find people propelling themselves across ponds, lakes and rivers, from calm water to white water. It’s a fun way to play on the water and get a low-impact, full-body workout at the same time; and it certainly tests your balance. With little instruction, most beginners can stand up and start paddling in short order. And inflatable paddleboards are easy to transport. They fold into backpacks and are easy to inflate.

Kayaking is easier than you might think and a great way to feel stable and glide through the water. Many kayaks can hold more than one person, with sit-on-top options that are great for kids and are the easiest to get into and out of. Or sit-in kayaks that are faster and more agile. You only need a few basic skills to paddle a kayak in calm lake conditions, with the forward stroke, reverse stroke, and sweep stroke for turning. If you’re new to paddling, kayaking is a great option. It can be easier than canoeing, and with inflatable kayaks, easier to transport.

Canoes are an age-old watercraft, great for longer adventures, more people and more gear. Canoes will be larger and heavier than kayaks, but more stable and slower. They’re also easier to move around in and adjust your sitting position. It requires just a few basic paddling skills to get started.

YAMPA RIVER

With the Yampa River running right through downtown Steamboat, canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boarding, are engrained in the town’s DNA. With many of the shops located either on or within walking distance of the Yampa River, it's possible to grab your water toy and be on the river in minutes.

PINEY LAKE 

Just 12 miles from Vail, located at Piney River Ranch, this 40-acre retreat is a beautiful must-see lake for a day of paddlesports and adventure. Located next to the spectacular Gore Range, activities include SUP, canoeing, hiking to the falls, camping, and enjoying nature.

SYLVAN LAKE PARK 

Located 30 minutes south of Eagle and surrounded by the White River National Forest, Sylvan Lake is a 42-acre lake, attracting plenty of paddlesport enthusiasts. Plan to spend the day or night with plenty of picnic areas, camping and hikers can enjoy more than 7 miles of trails.

MAGGIE POND

This is the ideal spot for those just learning how to paddleboard. Maggie Pond is in downtown Breckenridge, so it's easily accessible and the waters are calm. You will be treated to beautiful views of the Ten Mile mountain range.

SUP Yoga - If you're looking for a challenging way to do down dog, a number of yoga studios offer SUP Yoga classes on Maggie Pond throughout the summer.

LAKE DILLON

Ready to head out to a large, spacious lake with sandy beaches? Lake Dillon is out of town, but gives you two full-service marinas, views of the Rocky Mountains, and a fun-filled day with your choice of paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, boating, or fishing. If you're looking for calmer waters, head there early in the morning or closer to sunset when boat traffic is less.