Grab your paddle and get ready for an epic Colorado surf trip! This week-long duckying (inflatable kayaking) adventure is perfect for beginners and thrill-seekers alike. Our first day will be spent with the Academy’s Boating Director for basic instruction and terminology, followed by a quality paddle session to get familiar with strokes and techniques for both flat and moving water.
The next day, we’ll load up our duckies and overnight gear and head for the Ruby Horsethief section of the Colorado River. Once there, we’ll pack our dry bags and support boat before paddling into the rugged beauty of the wild canyon walls. Here is where we will find our FLOW. Our crew will spend three days navigating the slow twists and turns of the canyon, perfecting our paddling techniques, building strength, and playing water games as we journey downstream.
On our final overnight, we’ll celebrate with a Rocky Mountain Luau on one of the remote beaches in this magical high desert wilderness. We’ll wake to the sunrise for a peaceful paddle to the take-out, wrapping up an unforgettable week on the water. Adventure awaits—Surfs Up Colorado!
*Students will be on the river for most of this program. Though PFDs will be worn on the water, students should be confident swimmers and feel comfortable around moving water.
Sample Schedule:
Monday: Getting to know you! River safety and paddling technique workshop. Meal planning and packing 101.
Tuesday: Pack up the van and hit the road. Group shop in Montrose before launching the river and paddling to our first overnight campsite on the shores of the Colorado!
Wednesday: Paddle, paddle, paddle! Float 10 miles to our second campsite. Enjoy the stunning scenery of towering canyon walls and massive cottonwood trees.
Thursday: Layover day! Hike through the side canyons and play “board games” by the water.
Friday: Last morning on the river. Big breakfast before loading the boats and paddling to the take-out. De-rig, pizza party and home! Hugs and high fives.
*Schedule is subject to change*
Please click here to read our overnight policy.
Schedule:
Monday – Friday
Group departs for triple overnight on Tuesday.
