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

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Wyoming’s scenic beauty with a splash of adventure, Surfin In The Rockies Duckie Tours certainly catches the eye. Offered by Red Canyon River Trips, this two-hour outing takes you on self-guided inflatable kayaks along the Shoshone River, combining tranquility with some splashy whitewater fun. With its approachable price point of $56 per person and a focus on safety and enjoyment, it offers a compelling experience for those eager to try kayaking in a less intimidating setting.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it mixes stunning scenery — think rugged rock formations and abundant wildlife — with the thrill of navigating class 2 and 3 rapids. Plus, the fact that it’s self-guided means you get to set your own pace, making it feel more like a personal adventure than a tour bus expedition. However, a potential consideration is that this experience is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness and some familiarity with water activities, as the rapids can get lively and safety instructions are paramount.

This tour is ideal for adventure lovers who want a taste of whitewater without the commitment of full-day trips or guides on every boat. It’s also perfect for groups of friends or couples looking for a fun, active outing that rewards you with gorgeous views. If you’re after a balance of excitement, scenery, and a bit of independence, “Surfin in the Rockies” is worth considering.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking views of rock formations and wildlife along the river.
• Approachable Rapids: Class 2 and 3 rapids provide excitement without being overwhelming.
• Self-Guided Flexibility: You set your own pace in inflatable kayaks, with safety instructions provided beforehand.
• All Equipment Included: Guides, life vests, helmets, paddles, and inflatable kayaks are provided for safety and convenience.
• Moderate Physical Activity: The tour is suitable for those with moderate fitness, but some water experience is recommended.
• Safety Focus: Clear instructions ensure safety, and the option to switch to guided raft trips if needed.

Overview of the Experience

We love the way this tour balances adventure and scenery. Unlike typical guided trips, the self-guided inflatable kayaks give you a sense of independence while still being under the watchful eye of the guide, who provides safety instructions and equipment. The 2-hour duration offers enough time to soak in the views, navigate the rapids, and enjoy the journey without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at Cody Wyoming Adventures, the tour kicks off with a quick briefing on safety and paddle techniques. You’ll be handed your inflatable kayak, helmet, life vest, and paddle, with instructions on how to handle the boat and what to expect on the water. This initial setup is straightforward, and the staff is known for their friendly professionalism, which helps put nervous beginners at ease.

The real highlight begins as you set off onto the 7-mile stretch of the Shoshone River. The scenery here is a substantial draw—towering rock formations, lush greenery, and the chance to spot local wildlife like birds and deer. The rapids, rated as class 2 and 3, provide a gentle thrill. These are the kind of rapids that are lively enough to get your adrenaline flowing but manageable with proper technique and listening to instructions.

Navigating the Rapids

Guides emphasize safety at all times, instructing you to stay close to your guide or raft and to follow their signals. Multiple reviews point out that listening carefully to instructions makes the trip safer and more fun. The rapids are described as “a bit wild,” but manageable for those with some kayaking or whitewater rafting experience. If you’re completely new to water sports, you might prefer a guided raft trip, which the staff can facilitate if safety concerns arise.

The Scenery and Wildlife

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the stunning views along the river. It’s no exaggeration to say the landscape looks like something out of a Western movie—rugged rocks, towering cliffs, and open skies. Wildlife sightings, such as birds and maybe even deer, add to the sense of adventure and connection with nature. Several reviewers mention that “the scenery alone makes this trip worth it,” which is high praise considering the adrenaline rush from the rapids.

Safety and Group Size

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour maintains a friendly, intimate vibe. The safety gear, including helmets and life vests, is top-notch, and guides are attentive to each participant’s comfort and skill level. As one reviewer noted, “Safety always comes first,” and this is evident in their detailed safety instructions and flexible options if conditions aren’t ideal.

Price and Value

At $56 per person, this experience offers a lot of value. You get all equipment, guidance, and the flexibility of being self-guided, which tends to be more engaging than a fully guided tour. For travelers interested in whitewater with a scenic backdrop, it’s a reasonable price point—especially considering the unique mix of excitement and stunning vistas.

Considerations

While the tour emphasizes safety and accessibility, it’s important to recognize that participants should be reasonably fit and comfortable in water. The rapids, although manageable, can be challenging without proper attention. Weather can also influence the experience—poor conditions might lead to a cancellation or rescheduling, with full refunds offered if that happens.

In terms of logistics, meeting at 1119 12th St in Cody, the tour is straightforward to access, and since it ends back at the start point, it’s easy to plan other activities around it.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure appeals most to adventure seekers who want a moderate dose of whitewater fun in a scenic setting without the need for advanced skills. It’s ideal for those comfortable with moderate physical activity and keen to explore the natural beauty of Wyoming from the water. Families with teenagers, couples, or groups of friends looking for a memorable outdoor experience will find this tour a good fit. However, it’s less suited for absolute beginners or those wary of rapid water, unless they opt for the guided raft alternative.

Final Thoughts

Surfin In The Rockies Duckie Tours offers a well-balanced blend of scenic beauty and mild adrenaline. The stunning vistas of the Shoshone River make every paddle stroke worth it, especially when navigating the lively rapids. The fact that you can go at your own pace adds an element of personal adventure that many guided tours can’t match.

The safety measures and friendly staff help make this experience accessible while still providing enough thrill for seasoned water lovers. Plus, the overall value—considering equipment, safety gear, and the chance to create your own adventure—makes it an appealing choice for those in Cody wanting a memorable outdoor activity.

If you’re after an experience that combines beautiful natural surroundings with a bit of splashy fun, this tour deserves a place on your Wyoming itinerary. It’s perfect for travelers wanting an active, scenic, and flexible river adventure—one that leaves you with plenty of stories and some excellent photos.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
While some kayaking or water experience helps, the safety instructions and equipment provided help make it manageable for most. However, those with no water experience may prefer the guided raft option.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers guide supervision, a life vest, inflatable kayak, paddles, helmets, and safety instructions. It does not include alcoholic beverages.

How long does the tour last?
The adventure lasts approximately 2 hours, including safety briefings and paddling time.

Where do we meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at 1119 12th St, Cody, Wyoming. The tour starts and ends at this location.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes. The tour has a flexible cancellation policy—full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance or if canceled due to poor weather.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the maximum number of participants is 15, which helps maintain a personal and safe environment.

Are alcoholic beverages allowed?
No. Alcoholic drinks are not included and are not permitted during the activity for safety reasons.

To sum it up, Surfin In The Rockies Duckie Tours provides a fun, scenic, and reasonably priced way to experience Wyoming’s river landscapes. It’s best suited for those eager for a moderate whitewater adventure with stunning views and a personal touch. With safety firmly in focus and an emphasis on enjoying the natural beauty, this tour offers an engaging way to see Cody and the Shoshone River from a unique perspective.