Guided Inflatable Kayak Adventure
You Paddle. You Steer. You Soak Up Every Second.
Pilot your own ship
Looking for a thrilling way to experience Colorado whitewater? Our Guide Duckie River Adventure lets you paddle your own inflatable kayak (duckie) through splashy Class II–III rapids—while a professional guide keeps things fun and safe. Great for active families, teens, and adventure-seekers. Book your duckie trip today!
Ready for a more hands-on river experience? Our Guide Duckie River Adventure offers the best of both worlds: the freedom to paddle your own inflatable kayak and the support of a seasoned river guide right by your side. Whether you’re looking for a little extra thrill or a new way to explore Colorado’s whitewater, this trip puts you in the driver’s seat (or paddle seat, in this case).
You’ll receive full instruction before launching, then hit the water in your own duckie while your guide leads you down a scenic stretch of river. Navigate gentle rapids, learn river-reading skills, and feel the water in a whole new way. Duckies are stable and beginner-friendly, making this trip perfect for first-time paddlers who want a bit more independence—or return adventurers looking to switch things up.
Guide Tip
Maggie
River Guide
"Listen to your guide ... they've got your back ....Our guides are trained to lead you through everything from basic strokes to big rapids. Pay attention during the safety briefing and follow paddle commands like “Forward!” or “Get down!” during the trip. When the guide’s in charge and everyone’s working together, the boat moves like magic."
Choose Your Experience
Glenwood Springs – Guided Single Ducky
Location
Glenwood Springs
River
Roaring Fork River
Adventure Time
2.5 hours
Total Time
3 hours
Tags
Family Experiences
Great for Groups
Kid Friendly
Per Single Ducky
$74
Must be at least
13 years old
Available
Apr 30 - Oct 30
Adventure level
Tags
Family Experiences
Great for Groups
Kid Friendly
Single Seat Ducky
Ready to take control of your own whitewater ride? Our Guided Inflatable Kayak Adventure puts you in the captain’s seat as you navigate fun, splashy Class II–III rapids with the help of a professional river guide by your side. These stable, easy-to-maneuver kayaks — also known as “duckies” — let you feel every twist, turn, and splash as you paddle through Colorado’s mountain-fed rivers. It’s the perfect step up for adventurous families, solo thrill-seekers, or anyone ready to level up from a guided raft trip.
Ready to take control of your own whitewater ride? Our Guided Inflatable Kayak Adventure puts you in the captain’s seat as you navigate fun, splashy Class II–III rapids with the help of a professional river guide by your side. These stable, easy-to-maneuver kayaks — also known as “duckies” — let you feel every twist, turn, and splash as you paddle through Colorado’s mountain-fed rivers. It’s the perfect step up for adventurous families, solo thrill-seekers, or anyone ready to level up from a guided raft trip.
Duckies are stable, easy to maneuver, and incredibly fun. Whether you’re navigating splashy rapids, surfing small waves, or gliding through calm scenic stretches, this trip offers a more intimate and hands-on river experience—with plenty of support to keep it safe, smooth, and unforgettable.
This adventure is perfect for those who want independence that a traditional rafting trip does not have , control of their own journey—without losing the benefit of a guide nearby. After a comprehensive safety and paddling tutorial, you’ll be set to go. You’ll paddle through a mix of gentle currents, playful waves, and fun Class II–III whitewater (based on conditions).
Expect to get wet, laugh a lot, and maybe even take a swim—intentionally or not! It’s all part of the experience.
Glenwood Springs – Guided Double Ducky
Location
Glenwood Springs
River
Roaring Fork River
Tags
Family Experiences
Great for Groups
Kid Friendly
Per Double Ducky
$120
Must be at least
7 years old
Available
Apr 30 - Oct 30
Adventure level
Tags
Family Experiences
Great for Groups
Kid Friendly
Two Seat Ducky
Share the excitement with a friend or family member! Kids as young as 7 can join with an adult.
Share the excitement with a friend or family member! Kids as young as 7 can join with an adult.
Vail Area- Guided Single Ducky
Location
Vail / Beaver Creek
River
Upper Colorado River
Tags
Family Experiences
Great for Groups
Kid Friendly
Per Single Ducky
$95
Must be at least
13 years old
Available
May 16 - Aug 15
Adventure level
Tags
Family Experiences
Great for Groups
Kid Friendly
Single Seat Ducky
For those looking for the most independence, paddle your own ducky! Our guides are always nearby if you needed them.
For those looking for the most independence, paddle your own ducky! Our guides are always nearby if you needed them.
Vail Area- Guided Double Ducky
Location
Vail / Beaver Creek
River
Upper Colorado River
Tags
Family Experiences
Great for Groups
Kid Friendly
Per Double Ducky
$150
Must be at least
8 years old
Available
May 16 - Oct 30
Adventure level
Tags
Family Experiences
Great for Groups
Kid Friendly
Two Seat Ducky
Share the excitement with a friend or family member! Kids as young as 7 can join with an adult
Share the excitement with a friend or family member! Kids as young as 7 can join with an adult
Trip Details
- Inflatable single or tandem duckie (inflatable kayak)
- Safety equipment: helmet, life jacket, paddle
- Professional river guide in their own duckie or raft for on-river support
- Instruction on paddling, river safety, and maneuvering your craft
- Wetsuits, splash jackets, and booties (as needed)
- Transportation to and from the river
- All guests must sign a waiver (minors require parent/guardian signature)
- Minimum age: 13 years old to paddle solo (younger kids may ride tandem with an adult)
- Moderate fitness and swimming comfort required
- Prior rafting or kayaking experience is helpful but not required
- Arrive as instructed per your confirmation email
- Wear quick-dry clothing and secure footwear—no flip-flops or slides
Ready to level up your river game? Our Guide Duckie River Adventure gives you the freedom to paddle your own inflatable kayak (aka “duckie”) down a scenic Colorado river, with one of our experienced guides leading the way. It’s the perfect blend of independence and guidance—ideal for those who want to feel the river up close and personal, but still want the backup and expertise of a pro.
You’ll navigate splashy Class II–III rapids, learn to read the water, and build confidence with each bend in the river. Duckies are stable, fun, and forgiving—making them a great option for guests who are adventurous, active, and ready to take the reins (or in this case, the paddle).
This trip is awesome for couples, teens, groups, or solo travelers looking for something a little different than the typical rafting trip.
What’s the difference between a duckie and a raft?
A duckie is a stable, inflatable kayak you paddle on your own, while a raft is guided and paddled as a team. Duckies offer more control and a more intimate river experience
How hard is it?
Duckies are beginner-friendly but more active than rafting. You’ll get wet, you’ll paddle a lot, and you’ll probably laugh a lot too.
Will I flip?
It’s possible, especially in splashy sections—but that’s part of the fun! Your guide is there to help coach you through it and get you back upright if needed.
Can I bring my kid with me?
Tandem duckies are available for adult/child pairs. Minimum age is typically 8-10 depending on water levels.
How young can be in their own kayak?
12 and up water levers depending.
How long is the trip?
The full experience lasts about 3 hours, with 2.5 hours on the river.
Do I need kayaking experience?
No prior kayaking required—just a willingness to try something new and get a little wet!
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