Rent a single kayak and explore Blue Mesa Reservoir in 3 to 7 hours
3 - 7 Hours
Safety instructions, life jacket
Get out on Blue Mesa Reservoir with a single kayak rental and explore at your own pace. Paddle into areas like the Bay of Chickens or the Iola Basin near the Lake City Bridge.
You must be 18+ to rent, and this rental is for one person per kayak.
Cancel more than 48 hours before: fee is 10% of reservation cost or $50, whichever is higher. Cancel within 48 hours: fee is 20% or $50, whichever is higher. Full refund only if marina has unsafe weather at the time and you choose not to go; once you leave the dock, no refund. No-call/no-shows: no refund.
Bring swimming gear and a towel.
Yes. Arrive early to sign your waiver and get instructions on your rental.
Children 12 and under and all non-swimmers must wear a life jacket at all times.
102 Elk Creek, Gunnison, CO 81230
The staff here genuinely stand out. Dennis spent extra time walking one couple through the ins and outs of different lakes, Lesly saved another visitor from getting stranded on the wrong side of a road closure, and multiple reviewers simply noted the team as outstanding. That kind of local knowledge and attentiveness shows up consistently across reviews, and it seems to be the real draw of this place beyond just the boat launch. Kayak and pontoon rentals are available, with an easy online booking process and flexible staff who were willing to adjust reservation lengths on the morning of a trip. One reviewer did note that two rental fishing reels broke during their outing, though they still had a good time. Kayak availability is somewhat limited, so booking ahead is a smart move. The dual marina setup, with Elk Creek and Lake Fork operating on alternating schedules, means there's almost always access to Blue Mesa Reservoir even when one location is closed. The scenery on the water is consistently praised, and the area offers camping and picnic spots for those wanting to make a full day of it.
Dennis was a giant help at the boat check yesterday spent extra time with me and my wife explaining all the ins and outs of different lakes and how they operate. Thanks for all the help Dennis!!
Heath Korinek
July 12, 2025
Dennis was a giant help at the boat check yesterday spent extra time with me and my wife explaining all the ins and outs of different lakes and how they operate. Thanks for all the help Dennis!!
Heath Korinek
July 12, 2025
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