Welcome to Aspen, Colorado, a mountain paradise.
Looking for the best places to paddle board in Aspen?
You’re in luck because we’ve got some amazing destinations for you.
Get ready to experience breathtaking alpine scenery from your paddleboard. Let’s dive in!
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Table of Contents
🗺️ Map
Where to Paddle Board in Aspen
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 North Star Nature Preserve
- 🏖️ ️Location Type: River
- 📍 Access Point: Wildwood Drive (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Slow-moving river, calm waters, light prevailing winds
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Beaver, elk, moose, birds
- 🏞️️️ Landmarks & Views: Aspen Mountain, lush meadows, aspen groves
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: No motorized crafts, respect private property, preserve nesting habitats
North Star Nature Preserve, located just east of Aspen, offers a serene flatwater paddleboarding experience surrounded by beautiful mountains and lush wetlands.
This slow-moving section of the Roaring Fork River is perfect for all skill levels and provides an opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife.
#2 Ruedi Reservoir
- 🏖️ ️Location Type: Mountain Lake
- 📍 Access Point: Ruedi Marina Boat Ramp (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, occasional winds
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Summer
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Trout, deer, elk, eagles
- 🏞️️️ Landmarks & Views: Rocky peaks, dense forests
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boats, avoid restricted areas, life jackets recommended
Ruedi Reservoir, located about an hour’s drive from Aspen in the scenic Fryingpan Valley, offers a remote alpine paddling experience.
The reservoir’s calm waters surrounded by lush forests and towering mountains make it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and tranquility on their paddleboard.
#3 Glenwood Springs Whitewater Park
- 🏖️ ️Location Type: River
- 📍 Access Point: Near Two Rivers Park (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Rapid river current, variable water flow
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Trout, river birds
- 🏞️️️ Landmarks & Views: Glenwood Canyon, scenic river banks
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Experienced paddlers recommended, use caution in rapids, helmets and life jackets required
Located approximately 40 miles northwest of Aspen, the Glenwood Springs Whitewater Park offers a thrilling paddleboarding experience for those who crave adventure. With its man-made wave features and challenging river currents, it’s an ideal spot for experienced paddleboarders seeking to test their skills in whitewater action.
The scenic banks of the Colorado River add to the appeal of this adrenaline-pumping destination.
#4 Maroon Creek
- 🏖️ Location Type: River
- 📍 Access Point: Maroon Creek Road Parking (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Moderate river flow, calmer in slower sections
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Summer
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Deer, chipmunks, birds
- 🏞️️️ Landmarks & Views: Maroon Bells, aspen groves, towering peaks
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Use caution, respect private property, avoid high water level
Maroon Creek offers picturesque mountain views with the majestic Maroon Bells as a backdrop. While the fast-moving sections of the river can be challenging, there are also calmer parts perfect for a more relaxed paddleboarding experience.
Surrounded by aspen groves and the rugged Elk Mountains, this spot is ideal for those seeking a serene paddle amidst breathtaking nature.
#5 Stillwater
- 🏖️ ️Location Type: River
- 📍 Access Point: Stillwater Bridge (🔗 Google Maps)
- 🌊 Water, Currents & Wind: Slow-moving water, light winds
- ☀️ Popular Seasons: Summer
- 🐟 Wildlife Encounters: Rainbow trout, ospreys, herons
- 🏞️️️ Landmarks & Views: Serene riverbanks, woodlands
- ⚠️ Safety, Environment and Rules: Respect private properties, life jackets recommended
Located at the confluence of the Roaring Fork River and the Stillwater Creek, Stillwater provides paddleboarders with a tranquil environment. The slow-moving waters are perfect for beginners looking to gain confidence on the board.
This serene, tree-lined section of the river offers a relaxing and scenic paddleboarding experience away from the hustle and bustle.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Aspen?
In Aspen, you can paddle board at the beautiful Ruedi Reservoir and North Star Nature Preserve.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Aspen?
No, there is no need to register paddle boards in Aspen.
When is the best time to paddle board in Aspen?
The ideal time to paddle board in Aspen is during summer months when the weather is warmer.
