If you’re looking for a summer activity that combines mountain scenery, a gentle workout, and peaceful time on the water, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) in Aspen checks every box.
It’s accessible, refreshing, and a totally different way to experience Colorado’s high-alpine beauty, and at Elk Mountain Aspen, we make it easy for beginners and families to get started.
Here’s why SUP in Aspen is more than just a casual float: it’s a must-try summer adventure.
1. The Views Are Unreal
Aspen is known for its dramatic peaks, clear skies, and mirror-still alpine lakes, and when you’re standing on a paddleboard in the middle of it all, the views hit different. From calm lake paddling to flowing stretches of Northstar Nature Preserve, SUP in Aspen gives you a front-row seat to Colorado’s most stunning summer scenery.
2. You Don’t Need Experience
That’s the best part. SUP is super beginner-friendly, especially when you’re working with the right gear and local guidance. Our stand-up paddleboard trips and rentals are built for first-timers, families, and anyone who just wants to get outside and explore.
We’ll show you:
- How to stand and balance on the board
- Proper paddle technique
- How to launch and land safely
- Best practices for navigating calm rivers or lakes
We had a leisurely paddle in North Star It was nice to be in our own group (2) and have quiet time. Nice to relax those hiking muscles.
– Tanya Mishler, customer review
If you’re feeling nervous, our guided trips include instruction and are tailored to your comfort level.
3. It’s a Fun, Low-Impact Workout
SUP offers a sneaky full-body workout that’s as relaxing or challenging as you want it to be. Standing engages your core, arms, and legs while you glide across the water. But unlike a gym session, you’re surrounded by fresh mountain air, not treadmills or walls.
Prefer something more chill? Sit or kneel and just enjoy the ride. You’ll still get the fresh air and feel-good movement.
4. SUP Rentals and Trips Are Easy to Book
Whether you want to go it alone or have a guide show you the ropes, Elk Mountain makes it simple.
Our SUP Options Include:
- 4-, 8- and 24-hour paddleboard rentals with paddle, and PFD
- Self-guided trips with put-in recommendations
- Half-day guided SUP tours for beginners and groups, includes delivery and pick-up
👉 Check out all SUP trips and rental options here
5. It’s Family- and Group-Friendly
SUP is a crowd-pleaser. Kids love the novelty of standing and jumping off, while adults can enjoy the peacefulness of a float or the challenge of river SUP. It’s great for:
- Bachelor/bachelorette groups
- Wedding weekend add-ons
- Family reunions
- Team-building or corporate outings
We can even create custom private SUP trips for groups looking for something memorable.
6. It’s a Great Alternative on Hot or Smoky Days
When the trails are dusty or it’s too hot to hike, the water is where you want to be. SUP is the perfect low-elevation, heat-beating activity, and still keeps you immersed in the mountain landscape.
If wildfire smoke rolls in, lake SUP is often more manageable than uphill efforts or backcountry exposure.
Where Can You SUP in Aspen?
We paddle in stunning locations near town, including:
- Stillwater sections of the Roaring Fork River
- Northstar Nature Preserve
- Local alpine lakes, like Grizzly Reservoir, Ruedi Reservoir and Twin Lakes
You don’t need to drive far, our guides and gear will meet you close to where you’re staying.
Ready to Try SUP in Aspen?
Stand-up paddleboarding offers something few other activities can: peace, perspective, and playfulness all in one package. Whether you want a solo float or a full-group adventure, our team at Elk Mountain Aspen can help you make it happen.
👉 Browse SUP trips and rentals now
👉 Contact us with questions or to plan your custom paddle experience
FAQs
Do I need prior paddleboarding experience to book a trip?
Nope! Our guided SUP trips are designed for beginners and families. We provide instruction and all necessary gear.
What should I wear for SUP in Aspen?
Swimsuits or synthetic athletic wear, plus secure sandals or barefoot. Sunscreen and water are a must.
Can kids do stand-up paddleboarding?
Yes! Kids typically love it. We recommend ages 10+ for most guided trips.
Where do your SUP trips take place?
We paddle on scenic flatwater sections of the Roaring Fork River and nearby alpine lakes, depending on conditions and group preferences.
Do you offer paddleboard rentals without a guide?
Yes! We offer half-day, full-day, and multi-day rentals, and we’ll even help with recommended launch spots.
