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Learn the basics of stand‑up paddleboarding on sheltered ponds with sand beaches at Tico Time River Resort. A focused 30‑minute lesson, variety of boards, and one mile of Animas Riverfront make this an accessible introduction to SUP in the Four Corners.
Learn the basics of stand‑up paddleboarding on sheltered ponds with sand beaches at Tico Time River Resort. A focused 30‑minute lesson, variety of boards, and one mile of Animas Riverfront make this an accessible introduction to SUP in the Four Corners.
The morning wind on the pond is an invitation: flat glass water punctuated by sand beaches, a 130‑foot waterslide laughing in the background and the Animas River threading a mile of riverfront through the resort. A 30‑minute instructor-led SUP lesson here puts you on a variety of boards, teaching safety, stroke technique and basic turns before you push out from the shallow shoreline.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Tico Time River Resort RV Park · Durango, Colorado
The morning wind on the pond is an invitation: flat glass water punctuated by sand beaches, a 130‑foot waterslide laughing in the background and the Animas River threading a mile of riverfront through the resort. A 30‑minute instructor-led SUP lesson here puts you on a variety of boards, teaching safety, stroke technique and basic turns before you push out from the shallow shoreline.
Geology and history are close at hand—the high desert mesas that frame the resort are volcanic and sedimentary rock, carved by the Animas over millennia. The river corridor was a travel and fishing route for Ute and other Indigenous peoples long before Euro‑American mining and railroad development reshaped the valley. Today the area mixes recreation with ranching and small town culture; evenings bring local beers and Southwestern comfort food in nearby Durango.
On the water you’ll notice the current’s mood change where the river widens, and herons standing like sentries on sand spits. The ponds are sheltered, making balance and boarding less technical than river SUP, but altitude (~6,500 ft) can make exertion feel harder than at sea level. Expect sand, warm sun, and a family‑friendly vibe; lessons are ideal for beginners or anyone refreshing basic skills.
Practical: wear water shoes, reef‑safe sunscreen, and bring a refillable bottle. Plan your lesson for early morning or late afternoon for calmer winds and softer light. The half‑hour lesson is compact—arrive 20 minutes early for sizing and a safety briefing. If you want more time on the water, reserve extra paddling at the resort’s ponds or explore short river access nearby.
moderate.
30 minutes (lesson); 1–3 hours if using resort amenities.
Moderate fitness—able to stand, balance and swim comfortably; short bursts of core strength and balance required
No—this 30‑minute lesson is designed for beginners and covers safety, mounting, balance and basic strokes.
Children who can follow instructions and comfortably wear a life jacket are usually welcome; check operator policy for exact age restrictions.
The operator cancels poor‑weather sessions; their policy allows full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours before departure or due to weather.
Yes—PFDs are provided and fitted as part of the safety briefing before you launch.
The Animas River corridor was used by Ute peoples for fishing and travel; later mining and railroads shaped settlement patterns in the valley.
Use biodegradable sunscreen, avoid disturbing shoreline vegetation and rinse gear to prevent spreading invasive species between water bodies.
Tico Time River Resort RV Park operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
The morning wind on the pond is an invitation: flat glass water punctuated by sand beaches, a 130‑foot waterslide laughing in the background and the Animas River threading a mile of riverfront through the resort. A 30‑minute instructor-led SUP lesson here puts you on a variety of boards, teaching safety, stroke technique and basic turns before you push out from the shallow shoreline.
The morning wind on the pond is an invitation: flat glass water punctuated by sand beaches, a 130‑foot waterslide laughing in the background and the Animas River threading a mile of riverfront through the resort. A 30‑minute instructor-led SUP lesson here puts you on a variety of boards, teaching safety, stroke technique and basic turns before you push out from the shallow shoreline.
Geology and history are close at hand—the high desert mesas that frame the resort are volcanic and sedimentary rock, carved by the Animas over millennia. The river corridor was a travel and fishing route for Ute and other Indigenous peoples long before Euro‑American mining and railroad development reshaped the valley. Today the area mixes recreation with ranching and small town culture; evenings bring local beers and Southwestern comfort food in nearby Durango.
On the water you’ll notice the current’s mood change where the river widens, and herons standing like sentries on sand spits. The ponds are sheltered, making balance and boarding less technical than river SUP, but altitude (~6,500 ft) can make exertion feel harder than at sea level. Expect sand, warm sun, and a family‑friendly vibe; lessons are ideal for beginners or anyone refreshing basic skills.
Practical: wear water shoes, reef‑safe sunscreen, and bring a refillable bottle. Plan your lesson for early morning or late afternoon for calmer winds and softer light. The half‑hour lesson is compact—arrive 20 minutes early for sizing and a safety briefing. If you want more time on the water, reserve extra paddling at the resort’s ponds or explore short river access nearby.