This summer’s packed lineup of Colorado whitewater festivals means you can spend most weekends on the river
For a landlocked state, Colorado certainly isn’t short on water to play in. As snowmelt runs down the mountains in spring and summer, paddlers take to our abundant rivers to kayak, raft, stand-up paddleboard, tube and more. It’s not all just for fun, though. A stacked lineup of whitewater festivals offers plenty of competitions for those who want to test their skills. Add these six to your calendar.
CKS Paddlefest
May 23–27, Buena Vista
Every year, longstanding paddling experts CKS River Supply hosts a weekend of wet fun, starting with a town party Thursday evening. The competitions — including a kayak sprint slalom, time-trial raft races, river surfing and a freestyle kayak rodeo — kick off Friday. It’s a great time to gear up for the season, with a three-day, store-wide sale on new and used goods. cksriversupply.com
Yampa River Festival
May 30–June 2, Steamboat Springs
The Yampa River has long been a hot spot for tubers of all ages, but the tradition comes alive during Friends of the Yampa’s event (now in its 44th year). The main affair takes place downtown Saturday, but there are plenty of kayak, stand-up paddleboard and tubing events to catch each day. Enjoy dining at eateries along the river. friendsoftheyampa.com
Animas River Days
June 1–2, Durango
The competition is varied during this jam-packed weekend, with everything from river surfing and freestyle kayaking to boatercross. Don’t forget the late-afternoon, costumed river parade slated for Saturday; it’s always an amusingly good time. Stay hydrated with beverages from local favorites Ska Brewing Co. and Peach Street Distillers (plus, you know, water). animasriverdays.com
GoPro Mountain Games
June 6–9, Vail
This festival has something for athletes of any age. Groms (those 18 and younger) can compete in mountain biking, climbing, running and, yes, kayaking and paddleboarding events. Beyond the myriad whitewater contests, the doggie big air competition and big-name musical acts (lineup includes Xavier Rudd and Dispatch) are huge draws. mountaingames.com
FIBArk
June 13–16, Salida
Colorado claims the nation’s oldest whitewater festival — FIBArk (First in Boating on the Arkansas). It has taken over Salida every June since 1949. The 26-mile Downriver Race on Class III to IV rapids is a signature event, but don’t sleep on the Hooligan Race (where competitors can ride anything that’s not a boat) and dry happenings such as concerts and skateboarding. fibark.com
Royal Gorge Whitewater Festival
July 26–27, Cañon City
For 15 years, whitewater enthusiasts have amassed in Centennial Park in southern Colorado for a weekend of whitewater competitions, a raft rodeo and a stand-up paddleboard parade. Of course, the fun isn’t limited to the water; music, trail run and mountain bike contests, and even a weenie dog race fill out the packed schedule. royalgorgewhitewaterfestival.com