Inflatable Kayak (Ducky) Trips

Inflatable kayaks, often called duckies, are stable, maneuverable inflatable boats built specifically for whitewater rivers. Unlike traditional hard-shell kayaks, they’re beginner-friendly and forgiving, which makes them a great choice for first-time paddlers and adventurous families.

On a ducky trip you paddle your own boat instead of riding as part of a raft crew. That makes it a more active, hands-on way to run the river, with more control and independence, while professional guides stay with you the whole way. You get exciting rapids, scenic floating stretches, and Roaring Fork Valley mountain views from your own kayak.

No. Our inflatable kayaks are stable and forgiving, and most beginners feel comfortable quickly. Before every trip, guides give instruction on paddling, maneuvering, river safety, and self-rescue, so you’ll feel confident before you head onto the river.

Its pool-drop rapids give you exciting whitewater followed by calm recovery water below each rapid. Adventurous paddlers can take on the rapids head-on, while beginners can often choose easier lines as they build confidence.

Yes. Kids under 12 may ride tandem with an adult, depending on river conditions and experience levels.

Yes. The mix of exciting rapids and calmer recovery pools works for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Confident paddlers can pick more challenging lines through each rapid, while newer paddlers take it easier on the same stretch of river.

Absolutely. Ducky trips are especially popular with family vacations, bachelor and bachelorette parties, corporate team outings, birthday celebrations, friend groups, and youth and adventure groups. Because everyone paddles their own kayak, the trip naturally builds teamwork and plenty of laughs. It’s a shared adventure that’s completely different from the typical Aspen activity.

Your trip includes the shuttle, splash gear, and a snack. Wetsuits and helmets are provided when appropriate. Trip photos aren’t included, but you can buy them online afterward.

Wear quick-drying, non-cotton clothing such as shorts and a t-shirt or a bathing suit. Bring waterproof sunscreen (the sun is intense at 9,000 feet), sunglasses with a retaining strap, comfortable walking shoes, a towel, and a change of clothes for the ride home. We provide neoprene booties, so your shoes stay out of the river. Anything not going on the water stays in our shuttle van, which is either staffed or locked for the whole trip.

You can reserve your ducky trip online, or call our shop at (970) 920-3511. If your trip is within 48 hours, please call us and we’ll be happy to book it for you.