Crested Butte Colorado Kayak, Canoe, SUP Rentals & Tours, Kayaking & Paddleboarding

Crested Butte Colorado
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Kayak, Canoe & SUP

The canoe and kayak scene in Crested Butte revolves around extreme whitewater runs, including classic Black Canyon kayaking, but is also home to some terrific beginner rivers.

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Providers These companies can get you there

Float-Shack

Best paddle board rental rates in Crested Butte. 1/2 day packages start at $34. Includes everything-even straps to secure on your vehicle. NRS inflatable-stable & light!

Taylor Park Marina

Rentals of pontoon, fishing boats

Independent Whitewater

Gear up for excitement in Crested Butte! Rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards for breathtaking tours. Dive into adventure on the water and enjoy nature's beauty!

  • The Black Canyon's extreme rapids lure hardcore whitewater paddlers from all over the world.
  • The Gunnison River, around the North Bridge put-in, offers a leisurely class II canoe and kayak.
  • All variety of canoes and kayaks can be rented from several different outfitters.
  • Contact a Crested Butte kayak outfitter about a guided tour or lesson.

Overview

From mild to wild, Crested Butte is known for great whitewater canoeing and kayaking.

Where to go canoeing and kayaking

  • The Taylor River is really two different streams: the challenging class III upper section and the mellow class II bottom section. Combine them for a thrilling top-to-bottom day on the river.
  • The Gunnison River is a lovely, class II canoe and kayak. Put-in at Almont or North Bridge and float to the whitewater park takeout.
  • Kayaking Black Canyon of the Gunnison is an unforgettable experience. Steep, narrow class V rapids await intrepid paddlers launching a Black Canyon kayak trip.
  • For advanced whitewater paddlers, Crested Butte is home to intense (read: dangerous), class V spring creek boating on Upper East, Oh-Be-Joyful, Slate and Crystal creeks.

Guided Tours & Rentals

Several river outfitters offer guided tours and expert whitewater kayak instuction.

Crested Butte outfitters rent inflatable and hard-shell kayaks as well as shuttle services. Inquire about rates, destinations and availability.

Other Kayak, Canoe & SUP Resources

USA Canoe and Kayak

Find out where the US Canoe and Kayak team will be training.