Water Sports

If you think Colorado’s land-locked status means there’s a dearth of water sports in the region, you’d be wrong. From white-knuckle white water to meandering rivers ideal for gold medal fly fishing, the Roaring Fork Valley offers plenty of ways to get out, get wet, and have fun. Snowmass is perfectly situated to take advantage of all the options, whether you’re heading upvalley to the headwaters of the Colorado River or down to the largest man-made hot springs pool in the world.

Fly Fishing
The Roaring Fork Valley is a renowned destination for the fly fishing enthusiast. Both the Roaring Fork River and the Fryingpan River have been designated by the Colorado Division of Wildlife as Colorado Gold Medal Waters. Local outfitters and shops can provide any level of service from gear rental and advice on what’s biting to full-day guided river floats.

On the River
What’s your river pleasure–  Whitewater rafting? Floating in a ducky? Kayaking? Take your pick from a variety of water adventures. From gentle, scenic floats to adrenaline-pumping rapids, visitors can take advantage of opportunities on both local rivers and further afield on the Arkansas River. Want to try something different? Ask about Stand-Up Paddle Boarding.

BYOB (Bring Your Own Boat)
If you’re heading to Snowmass and interested in stopping along the way for a little water action, there are plenty of options. For those with sailboats and motorized boats, the nearby Ruedi Reservoir offers 1,000 water acres to explore. Paddle boarders, canoers, and floaters will love the gentle meandering turns at the headwaters of the Roaring Fork River in the North Star Nature Preserve above Aspen. Serious adventure seekers can check in with local outfitters on the river conditions or head down to the Glenwood Springs Kayak Park.

Man-Made Water Sports
Looking for something a little more tame than an outdoor river adventure? Never fear! Plenty of man-made options exist to soak and swim. The Snowmass Recreation Center offers outdoor saline and lap pools with slides and water features for the kids. The Aspen Recreation Center takes that notion indoors with a lap pool, lazy river, water slides and more. About 45-minutes away is the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, the largest man-made hot springs pool in the world.