Update 3/17/25: We are no longer offering scheduled weekend classes at Packraft Colorado. This has always been a passion project of mine and my regular business (operating a transportation service as Black Canyon Limo in Crested Butte) has become much busier than I can juggle with running courses on busy weekends. I am happy to offer private courses to groups of three or more, so please do reach out via email you have a group and we can figure out a time that works for everyone. If you are looking for a scheduled course, I highly recommend our colleagues at Gunnison Kayak Program, Whitewater Attainment, and Four Corners Guides. See you all on the river! – Noah Zemel
Packraft Colorado
Packrafting is a burgeoning water sport that is growing with incredible popularity. It combines many elements of kayaking, rafting, and backpacking in a user-friendly package. Packrafting opens many doors for what is possible in a river expedition. Beyond the incredible capabilities these small craft offer, they are downright fun.
Packraft Colorado intends to be the preeminent outfitter and resource for packrafting in central Colorado. We are based in beautiful Crested Butte and hope to share our collective experience with you and get you psyched on packrafting!
We stock exclusively Alpacka rafts and can set you up with a state-of-the art packraft, paddle, wetsuits, and all the other accessories you might need to make your packrafting trip a success.
For the 2024 season, we will be offering day-long courses to introduce people to this sport, as well as courses to refine abilities for intermediate and advanced boaters.
Instructional Courses
Introductory Course
Our introductory course is a full-day class that will teach you everything you need to know to start getting on the water. We will cover hands-on skills ranging from setting-up your boats to paddling technique and wet re-entry, and logistical skills such as reading water to packing for overnight trips. We are happy to rent packrafts for a small fee.
Swiftwater Rescue
If there is enough demand, we are happy to organize an certified swiftwater rescue course with a focus on packraft specific rescue scenarios. This would be a three-day course. Please contact us if you are interested in making this happen.
Rentals
Alpacka Classic Spraydeck
Alpacka Classics are the staple of the packrafting world. They are the perfect balance of lightweight portability and whitewater performance. If you are new to the sport, this would be your best option. We have boats with and without internal storage (TiZip).
Rate w/o TiZip: $50/day
Rate w/ TiZip+bags: $60/day
Alpacka Wolverine
Wolverines are Alpacka’s take on playboats. They are highly maneuverable, but require a more experienced paddler. If you have a kayaking background and need a packraft, this would be a great fit, or if you’re a seasoned packrafter, try a Wolv’. They rip! Wolverines come with internal dry bags and thigh straps
Rate: $70/day
Packrafting Accessories
We also rent everything else you need for your trip
- 4pc UL Paddle (Aquabound) – $5/day
- Class III PFDs – $3/day
- Whitewater Helmets – $2/day
- Wetsuits – $5/day
- Alpacka bowbags – $5/day
- 65L Backpack-style Drybag – $3/day
If you need gear shipped and will cover the cost of shipping, reach out to us!
Our rental rates are discounted as you book more days!
What is Packrafting?
Portability
One of the biggest strengths of these boats is how lightweight and portable they are. Many modern packrafts weigh under ten pounds and pack to the size of a tent, revolutionizing what can be done on backpacking trips and opening the door for some incredibly creative travel.
Whitewater
While many people get packrafts for flatwater travel, the allure of whitewater inevitably pulls us all in. Thankfully, modern packrafts are extremely whitewater capable, even more stable than kayaks
Carrying Capacity
Packrafts can support huge amounts of weight, easily supporting a range of activities. They can easily carry a week’s worth of supplies, a bicycle, two people, a dog, and even a moose.
Durability
Modern packraft companies use high-denier nylon that are extremely durable, and should anything go wrong, are patchable in the field.
Get in Touch!
Here for you
For communicating with our staff, please send an email to packraftcolorado@gmail.com
About us
Learn more about this new company and community
Our Office
PO Box 3485
Crested Butte, CO 81224