Water Activities with Colorado River School: Kayaking in the Colorado River
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness needed; ability to swim is recommended
Overview
Learn kayaking fundamentals on the Colorado River with expert guides amidst stunning canyon scenery. Perfect for beginners seeking adventure and skills in a breathtaking setting.
Lesson 2: Fundamentals of Kayaking
$200 per Person | Ages 12+ | Prerequisite: Lesson 1 | 9am to around 3pm
Select participants and date
Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of kayaking on the stunning Colorado River! This hands-on lesson teaches essential skills like eddy turns and ferries amidst breathtaking sandstone canyon views. By day’s end, you'll confidently navigate small rapids, ensuring a memorable adventure filled with learning and excitement in the great outdoors.
Get into the Fundamentals of Kayaking
Rates
Person (Ages 12+): $200
Duration
9am to around 3pm
About
Get a taste for whitewater and beautiful scenery, on the Colorado River. With the beautiful sandstone canyon walls as a backdrop, learn about hydrology, river features, and how to maneuver your kayak through the current with eddy turns, ferries and peel-outs. The skills you learn here will help you to kayak through the rapids, avoid hazards and keep you safe. By the end of the day, you will have paddled small class I - II rapids and be able to paddle similar water on your own.
Lessons run rain or shine, so check out our recommended gear list for suggestions on what to bring to be prepared.
What to Bring
- Swimsuit
- Towel
- Lots of water
- Waterproof Sunscreen
- Sunglasses with retention strap (optional)
- Lunch and Snacks**
- Sunscreen
- Warm dry clothing for when you are off the water
** Please note that instructors will carry lunches down the river using waterproof bags that fit in the back of our boats. Please pack a lunch that does not require a cooler for storage. Out of considerations to the group, please do NOT NOT BRING BANANAS OR TUNA in your lunch :)
What is Included
- This lesson includes all the kayaking gear you will need including a boat, paddle, skirt, PFD, wetsuit jackets, and booties. If you have your own equipment, we encourage you to bring it since it is most likely what you will be using outside of this lesson.
Optional Items
- Fleece or other synthetic clothing (not containing cotton) that can be worn under a wetsuit
- Kayak nose plugs (with a strap - these are not swim nose plugs. They can be purchased from Confluence Kayaks or Golden River Sports. They are helpful if you don't like getting water up your nose)
- A sun hat
- Sunglasses with retention strap (Croakies, etc.)
Itinerary
- Start time 9:00 am
- Introduction & Logistics
- Equipment
- Hydrology
- River Safety
- Maneuvering
- Eddy turn
- Ferry
- Lunch around noon
- Peel out
- Swimming
- Boat recovery
- Wrap up
- End Time may vary around 3:00 pm
Adventure Tips
Safety gear is essential
Always wear a life jacket and helmet during instruction and paddling.
Timing matters
Schedule your lesson during the cooler parts of the day to stay comfortable.
Check weather conditions
Ensure weather and river conditions are suitable for beginner paddling before booking.
Dress for water contact
Wear quick-drying clothes and bring a change of dry clothes for after the session.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald eagles
- Great blue herons
History
The Colorado River has been a vital waterway for centuries, shaping the landscape and supporting indigenous communities.
Conservation
The Colorado River School promotes minimal impact paddling and environmental stewardship to preserve this iconic waterway.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Grand Junction
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Personal Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout your paddling lesson.
Quick-drying clothes
Comfortable clothing suited for water activities.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from strong sun exposure.
Waterproof bag
Keep your personal items dry and secure.