Surfin In The Rockies Duckie Tours BY:Red Canyon River Trips

Exploring the Surfin’ in the Rockies Duckie Tour: A Practical Look at Kayaking on the Shoshone River

If you’re considering adding a splash of adventure to your Cody trip, the Surfin’ in the Rockies Duckie Tours from Red Canyon River Trips promises a lively and scenic experience. This tour offers a chance to paddle through the beautiful Shoshone River in inflatable kayaks, with a mix of gentle scenery and adrenaline-pumping rapids. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or just want to try something different, this activity offers a unique way to enjoy the Rockies’ rugged beauty.

What we really like about this experience is the stability of the inflatable kayaks—nicknamed “Double Duckies” or “Divorce Duckies” by the guides—making it more approachable for those wary of traditional whitewater rafting. Plus, the beautiful scenery and wildlife sightings keep you engaged throughout. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the physical demand of navigating Class 2 and 3 rapids; it’s not a casual float and does require a moderate level of fitness and attentiveness.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy a bit of action but want the stability that comes with a two-person inflatable kayak. It’s perfect for those with some kayaking or whitewater experience, looking for a fun way to see the Rockies from a different perspective. If you’re after a relaxing float or are traveling with very young children, this might not be the ideal choice. But if you crave excitement mixed with stunning views, this could be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Accessible for intermediate kayakers who want a bit of excitement without going full-on rafting.
• Stability of inflatable kayaks makes it easier and safer for those new to whitewater.
• Beautiful scenery and wildlife along the 7-mile stretch offer plenty to see and enjoy.
• Safety is a priority, with guides providing thorough instructions and necessary gear.
• Rapids range from Class 2 to 3, meaning some sections can be lively but manageable for those with some experience.
• Cost of $56 per person offers a reasonable value considering the scenery, adventure, and safety provided.

Diving into the Experience: What’s It Really Like?

The Cody-based tour kicks off at the meeting point on 12th Street, where you check in and gear up for your 2-hour adventure. The cost of $56 covers everything you need—guide, life vest, inflatable kayak, paddles, helmets, and safety instructions. This all-in-one setup means you’re ready to go with minimal fuss, and the safety emphasis is clear from the start.

You’ll get a quick briefing to make sure everyone understands how to navigate the kayaks and what to do in rapids. The guides are there to keep you safe and make the trip enjoyable, instructing you on how to handle the Class 2 and 3 rapids, which are lively but not overly intimidating. We’ve read comments from those who appreciated that the guides stayed within sight, emphasizing safety and making sure everyone stayed close.

The scenery along the 7-mile stretch is a major highlight. Expect to see rock formations and a variety of wildlife, which help make the trip visually rewarding. As you paddle, you’ll be moving through sections that are both calm and energetic, providing a balanced experience. The rapids are described as fun and manageable—just enough to give you a thrill without feeling unsafe. Still, you need to have a moderate physical fitness level to enjoy the ride comfortably and stay alert.

While some reviews don’t specify the number of participants, the tour is capped at 15 travelers, fostering a more personalized experience. Whether you’re paddling solo in the kayak or with a partner, the two-hour duration is enough to give you a good taste of whitewater without feeling too exhausting.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Cody Wyoming Adventures

Your adventure begins at the meeting point, where the staff will equip you with all the gear needed for the kayak trip. This includes a guide, life vest, helmet, and the inflatable kayak itself. With safety a primary concern, the staff will give you thorough instructions—crucial for navigating the rapids confidently.

The 7-Mile Kayak Route

The main feature of this tour is the 7-mile stretch of the Shoshone River. It’s long enough to feel like a real adventure, but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring. The scenery is notably beautiful, with rock formations and wildlife sightings helping to keep your camera busy.

Rapids and Whitewater Sections

You’ll pass through some Class 2 and 3 rapids—which can get lively but are suitable for those with some kayaking experience. The guides will instruct you on how to handle these sections, emphasizing safety and control. Some reviews mention that the rapids can “get a bit wild,” which adds to the excitement. However, it’s comforting to know that safety is taken seriously, with guides staying close and providing clear instructions.

Wildlife and Scenic Breaks

Between rapids, there are opportunities to enjoy the scenery and spot various wildlife along the riverbanks. This segment offers a chance to relax and take in the stunning views of the Rockies’ natural beauty, making the whole trip more than just a whitewater thrill.

End of the Tour

The activity concludes back at the starting point, completing the loop of your adventure. Overall, it’s a well-paced experience that balances adventure and scenic enjoyment.

Real-World Insights and Considerations

Based on the available reviews and information, a few practical notes emerge:

• Safety First: The emphasis on safety instructions and gear is reassuring. Still, since rapids can be lively, travelers should be comfortable with moderate physical activity and able to follow guide instructions.
• Price-to-Value: At $56 per person, this experience offers a good balance of scenic beauty, adventure, and safety.
• Group Size: With a cap of 15, it’s not overly crowded, which helps with personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe.
• Weather Dependence: Like all outdoor water activities, it’s weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.
• Physical Demands: Travelers should have moderate fitness levels and be prepared for some paddling effort.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy being active and want to see the Rockies from a different perspective. It’s perfect if you have some kayaking experience or are comfortable with a bit of a splash. It’s also a good choice for those looking for a fun, scenic outing that isn’t purely a float trip but not full-on whitewater rafting.

However, if you prefer a super relaxed experience or are traveling with very young children, you might find this too energetic. It’s also worth noting that the rapids require some attention and moderate physical effort, so it’s best suited for those in good shape.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
It’s geared toward those with some kayaking or whitewater experience, but the safety instructions and guide presence make it manageable for most physically able travelers.

How long is the trip?
The activity lasts approximately 2 hours, covering about 7 miles of river.

What is included in the price?
All necessary gear—guide, life vest, inflatable kayak, paddles, helmets, and safety instructions—are included in the $56 fee.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you can reschedule or get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours prior.

Are alcoholic beverages allowed?
No, alcohol is not included or mentioned as permitted, so it’s best to enjoy the trip sober for safety.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 15 travelers can join, which helps keep the experience personalized.

Is this tour family-friendly?
The data doesn’t specify, but due to the rapids and physical activity involved, it’s likely better suited for older children or teens comfortable with water sports.

Do I need to bring anything?
You just need to show up with a moderate physical fitness level; gear and instructions are provided. It’s advisable to wear appropriate clothing for water activities.

Where does the tour start and end?
Both start and end at 1119 12th St, Cody, WY, making logistics straightforward.

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, guides are present throughout the trip, ensuring safety and providing instructions.

Wrapping It Up

The Surfin’ in the Rockies Duckie Tour from Red Canyon River Trips offers a lively, scenic, and relatively accessible way to experience whitewater kayaking on the Shoshone River. Its combination of stability, wildlife, and exciting rapids makes it stand out as a memorable part of any Cody visit. The emphasis on safety and scenery ensures you’re not just paddling for fun but also soaking in the natural beauty of the Rockies.

This experience is best suited for adventurous souls with some paddling experience, looking for a semi-energetic river outing with stunning views. It may not be ideal for those seeking a purely relaxing float or traveling with very young kids, but if you’re ready to get your adrenaline going while enjoying truly spectacular scenery, this could be a highlight of your trip.

Whether you’re out for a thrill or just want to see Cody from a different angle, this tour balances fun and safety I think you’ll find worth the price. Just remember to listen closely to your guides, stay alert, and enjoy the ride through the natural wonders of the Rockies.

Hope this helps you decide if this river adventure fits your travel style. Happy paddling!