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Why August is the Sweet Spot for Kayaking in Colorado
If you’ve been waiting all summer to hit the water, late August might just be the perfect time.
But before you load up your gear or book a rental, it’s worth knowing what each spot offers—and how much it’s going to cost.
From lake rentals to river access fees, here’s a guide that lays it all out.
Best Lakes & Reservoirs for Kayaking in Late August
Lake Dillon
Nestled near Breckenridge, Lake Dillon is one of Colorado’s most photogenic paddling spots.
Rentals here aren’t cheap—single kayaks start around $60 for two hours, while tandem options hover around $75–$80.
Access Fees: Expect to pay a daily state park pass of $10–$12 unless you already have the $29 “Keep Colorado Wild” annual pass on your vehicle registration.
Blue Mesa Reservoir
As Colorado’s largest body of water, Blue Mesa Reservoir offers plenty of space to spread out.
Located near Gunnison, it feels like an inland sea with coves and long stretches perfect for exploring.
Elk Creek Marina rents kayaks starting around $30, making it one of the more affordable big-lake options.
Access Fees: Like most Colorado reservoirs, you’ll need a state park pass—daily passes run $10–$12.
Grand Lake & Shadow Mountain Lake
Colorado’s largest natural lake, Grand Lake, is connected directly to Shadow Mountain Lake, giving you two distinct paddling experiences in one trip.
Mountain Paddlers Kayak Shak is a go-to rental shop here, offering reasonable rates plus perks like “rent 2 hours, get the 3rd free.”
Grand County Kayaks also caters to those who want longer rentals, ranging from half-day to multi-day adventures.
Access Fees: Expect the standard $10–$12 per vehicle.
Insider Tip: Start at Grand Lake early in the day, then connect through the channel to Shadow Mountain for a full-day paddle with less boat traffic.
Horsetooth Reservoir
Just west of Fort Collins, Horsetooth is a favorite for locals looking to squeeze in some late-summer paddling.
Rental pricing is pretty flexible here—$25 for an hour, $40 for two hours, $65 for a half-day, and $120 for a full day. Kids can join in for just $10 an hour, and Mondays even offer discounted rates ($20 for an hour, $35 for two).
Access Fees: Horsetooth does require a daily vehicle entry fee in addition to rentals.
Insider Tip: For the calmest conditions, launch from the south end of the reservoir where crowds are thinner.
Best Rivers & Whitewater Parks for Kayaking in Late August
Colorado River (near Glenwood Springs)
By late August, the mighty Colorado River near Glenwood Springs is steady but safe, making it a fantastic mix of mellow stretches and playful rapids.
Outfitters like Defiance River Outfitters and Hanging Lake Adventure Co-op rent inflatable kayaks and even offer shuttle services so you can paddle downstream without worrying about the return trip.
Prices vary, but guided inflatable kayak tours typically fall in the $70–$120 range.
Access Fees: Some launch sites charge small parking or ramp fees, depending on whether you’re on BLM land or state-managed access points.
Insider Tip: Beginners should try the Grizzly Creek to Glenwood Springs stretch. It’s scenic, fun, and a great introduction to river paddling.
Arkansas River (Buena Vista to Salida stretch)
The Arkansas River is legendary in Colorado’s whitewater scene, and late August makes it accessible to more than just hardcore paddlers.
The Browns Canyon stretch offers fun rapids with plenty of scenery, while the Numbers section delivers more adrenaline.
Half-day guided tours typically range from $100–$125, with full-day trips running about $134.
Access Fees: Daily passes are often required in managed sections of the river.
Insider Tip: Families should stick with Browns Canyon, while thrill-seekers will love the Numbers. Either way, you’ll get iconic Rocky Mountain whitewater.
Clear Creek (Idaho Springs area)
Just 30 minutes from Denver, Clear Creek is a fast favorite for weekend warriors.
By late August, the water levels have dropped enough to make it safer for intermediate paddlers without losing its punch.
Guided whitewater trips here run between $85–$100 for a half-day.
Access Fees: Expect to pay for parking or designated launch areas in Idaho Springs.
Insider Tip: Go on a weekday if you can—weekends bring big crowds from Denver.
Glenwood Springs Whitewater Park
Unlike most spots on this list, Glenwood’s Whitewater Park is free to use. It’s a public wave feature built for kayakers, surfers, and paddleboarders to practice tricks or just play in the standing wave.
You’ll need your own kayak, or you can rent one from local outfitters nearby. Parking may cost a few dollars depending on where you stop.
What You’ll Pay for Kayaking in Colorado
- Kayak rentals: $25–$120 depending on duration and type.
- Park entrance fees: $10–$12 daily or $29 with the annual “Keep Colorado Wild” pass.
- Guided whitewater tours: $80–$140 depending on stretch and duration.
- Hidden costs: Shuttle services, wetsuit rentals, parking fees.
Final Thoughts
From calm lakes framed by snowcapped peaks to roaring rivers that challenge even the boldest paddlers, Colorado has it all.
Late August strikes that sweet balance—warm enough for long paddles, yet tame enough for whitewater first-timers to give it a shot.
Just keep an eye on fees, pick the stretch that suits your skill level, and you’re set for one of the best kayaking adventures in the Rockies.
Read More: 7 Best Colorado Fishing Spots to Hit in Late August
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