There are many opportunities for river canoe trips in Colorado.
Colorado has several rivers where canoes are welcome. The rivers are classified into Class I, Class II and Class III river sections which are paddle worthy. The classifications are provided so individuals wishing to canoe a particular section of the river will be able to attain the difficulty level of that area. Paddling expeditions are provided by numerous companies. Individuals wishing to canoe in Colorado can rent or use their own canoes.
Classifications
Class I river areas provide still or moving water. The waves are steady and at a low height. The channel provides very few small obstructions so the paddler will be able to maneuver the canoe with ease.
Class II river areas have small rapids. Waves can range up to 3 feet tall and are normally irregular. The channel area is relatively clear with some low ledges and small rocks. This area is recommended for individuals who are considered intermediate paddlers.
Class III river areas have large fast-running rapids. The rapids can be very powerful. Waves can range up to 5 feet and are very irregular. Low-hanging ledges, large rocks, and narrow passages are common within the Class III river area. It is highly suggested that paddlers scout the route before paddling the area to make sure they know where all the obstacles are positioned.
There are Class IV and V ratings for river areas, too. These two ratings are not safe for any type of paddling. The rapids are extremely strong, have large waves, very large obstacles, boiling edges and an almost impossible place for rescue if an accident should occur.
Other classifications include beginner, intermediate and expert.
Rivers
Class I river sections include the Lonetree Reservoir; Colorado River from Dotsero to Bair Ranch and Loma to Westwater, Utah; Green River in Browns Park; and the South Platte River from Brighton to Ft. Lupton.
Class II river sections include Eagle River from Gypsum to Detsero and the South Plate River from C-470 to Union Avenue and Union to Florida Avenue.
Arahoe National Recreation Area provides several Class I areas. Shadow Mountain Reservoir, Grandby Reservoir, Willow Creek Reservoir, Monarch Lake and Gross Reservoir provide fine paddling opportunities.
The Delores River and the Gunnison provide both beginner and intermediate paddle areas.
Equipment
The equipment needed for a one-day canoe excursion includes: canoe, paddles, life jacket, hat, bandanna, socks, boots, rain gear, appropriate clothing (swimsuit, coat and so on), bug spray, belt, water bottle, flashlight, throw bag, baler, sound device (whistle), folding knife, rope, matches, lighter, map, compass, medical kit, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, Ziploc bags, mirror, towel, Kleenex, pen/pencil, notebook, garbage bags, camera, food, toilet paper, crush-proof case with extra contacts or prescription glasses, and a repair kit. The majority of the items should be stored in a backpack and thrown in either the end or center of the canoe.
The equipment needed for overnight camping trips includes all of the above plus camp shoes or sandals, gaiters, change of clothing, gloves or mittens, water filter and spare parts, cutlery, portable stove, fuel, water, cooking pots, back pack, tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, rope, bear bag, mirror, toothbrush and toothpaste, soap, shaving kit, unscented deodorant, comb, cards, book, fishing equipment, duct tape, candle, and a survival kit.
Optional items to bring include a GPS system and bug hat that is a full hooded hat with a mess covering to place over the face.
Survival Kit
There is always the chance that something bad could happen while taking a canoe trip. It is important to carry a survival kit at all times. The survival box should be small and easy to carry on your person at all times. A waterproof box, ox tobacco tins or sealable sandwich bags all work. Place the survival items in the container. Secure the lid with tape or a rubber band to ensure it is waterproof and that it does not accidentally open. Stuff the container with cotton wool to keep the items secure and to start a fire if necessary.
The survival kit should include a laminated piece of paper with your name, address, phone number, emergency contact, medical information, allergies, etc. Other items include matches, flint, candle, fire starters, magnifying glass, lighter and cotton wool.
First-Aid Kit
A first-aid kit should be part of the equipment taken on a canoe trip. Only one is needed for groups. The first-aid kit should include water purifying tablets, knife, compass, space blanket, safety pins, razor blade, needles and thread, wire saw, aluminum foil, sealable sandwich bags, emergency food such as soup mix, snare wire, 20-lb. fishing line, fishing weights, fishing hooks, whistle and a signal mirror.
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