Outrigger Canoes

Stand Up Paddle Colorado is the primary source for outrigger canoe experiences that honor the Hawaiian tradition. Bringing the spirit of aloha to the Rocky Mountains with top-tier OC-1 outrigger canoes in our fleet, we invite enthusiasts here in the mountains to join us on the many adventures that we have to offer at Lake Dillon.

Dillon Outrigger Canoe Club

Membership

$20 Drop-in + plus tax
$150 Seasonal + plus tax

Location

Dillon Reservoir

Starting

June 14th

The DOCC is being started to create a culture and community around canoe paddling in Summit County and Colorado. First and foremost we honor and pay tribute to the Polynesian peoples and culture for their indelible contributions to the ancient maritime exploration and voyaging of the Pacific Ocean. It is the goal of the club to approach the canoe with the reverence and respect it merits. It is our goal to adhere and align with the principles of the Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Voyaging Society which are as follows…

The club will be member driven and there will be a seasonal, monthly or drop-in fee which gives access to morning and sunset club paddles as well as gives discounted rates for OC-1s and other crafts we have for rent. We have two six man canoes which fit up to 12 paddlers. We will have a daily sign up sheet for club paddles.

 

 

Outrigger Canoe Rentals

$120

Duration

2 Hours

Vessel

Single Outrigger Canoe

Location

Dillon Reservoir

We are excited to offer OC-1’s as a premium rental at the Dillon Marina.  Outrigger Canoes are ultra performance crafts meant to cover distances and displace water.  We have canoes from renown Hawaiian shapers, Kai Bartlett (https://www.kaiwaa.com/) and Johnny Puakea (https://puakeadesigns.com/).

The canoes are fragile and need to be carried and used with care.  Experience paddling these crafts is highly recommended because they can tip over easily if you are inexperienced.  Taking a lesson is highly recommended unless can prove to be proficient and able to right if one were to tip over.  All rentals will get a safety and paddle talk.  Rental slot is for 2 hours and include a paddle and pfd.

Outrigger Canoe Tours

$75 Per Paddler

Time Slots

7 days/week
9:00am – 10:00am
10:15am – 11:15am
11:30am – 12:30pm
5:00pm – 6:00pm Pau Hana Tour

Duration

1Hour

Vessel

Outrigger Canoe

Location

Dillon Reservoir

We are excited to be the first Outrigger Canoe Tour operator in Colorado.  The tour takes place on the majestic Lake Dillon in the heart of Summit County.  The tour begins with a paddle talk that covers canoe history, culture and terminology associated with its Polynesian roots.  We will talk a little about the history of Dillon Reservoir as well as point out many of the stunning and scenic peaks that can be seen from the lake.

Outrigger Canoeing FAQs

Do I need experience to try outrigger canoeing?

Not necessarily. The guided Outrigger Canoe Tour is designed for first-timers, and your guide provides a paddle talk covering canoe history, culture, basic technique, and Polynesian terminology before launch. For the OC-1 Single Outrigger Canoe Rental, experience is highly recommended because these are high-performance solo crafts that can tip easily. First-timers interested in OC-1 should book a lesson first to build proficiency.

How stable is an outrigger canoe?

Outrigger canoes are quite stable thanks to the ama, or outrigger float, attached to the iako, or spars, which provides lateral stability compared with a standard canoe or kayak of similar width. OC-1 solo canoes are high-performance vessels and require active balance, especially in choppy conditions. Six-man canoes used for group tours and club paddles are significantly more stable, making them ideal for beginners and groups. Lake Dillon afternoon winds can create chop, so guides orient each outing to conditions.

What is the difference between an OC-1 rental and a guided group tour?

An OC-1 Single Outrigger Canoe Rental is a self-guided solo experience for experienced paddlers who want performance and freedom after a safety and paddle talk. The Outrigger Canoe Tour is a guided group experience in a six-man canoe. Your guide leads the group, shares Hawaiian cultural history and Dillon Reservoir facts, identifies surrounding mountain peaks, and handles navigation. No experience is needed, making it a great choice for families, small groups, and first-timers.

What gear and equipment are provided?

All outrigger experiences include a paddle and a personal flotation device. OC-1 rentals include a safety and paddle talk, and group tours include equipment plus a professional guide. Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses with a strap, quick-dry athletic wear, water shoes or strapped sandals, and a change of clothes. Wetsuits are recommended through June when the lake is cold, and guests should dress for wind.

How does the Dillon Outrigger Canoe Club work?

The Dillon Outrigger Canoe Club is a community paddling program at Lake Dillon built around outrigger canoeing in Summit County. Members can join morning and sunset club paddles throughout the season, use six-man canoes, and access discounted OC-1 and other rental crafts. The club honors Hawaiian outrigger traditions and welcomes all skill levels who want to paddle with a community. Book through the Dillon location page to join.

Where does outrigger canoeing take place?

All Stand Up Paddle Colorado outrigger experiences operate from Lake Dillon at Dillon Marina, 150 Marina Drive, Dillon, Colorado. The program is based at the flagship Dillon marina location, surrounded by the Gore Range and Tenmile Range.

Can I bring a group for an outrigger canoe tour?

Absolutely. The guided Outrigger Canoe Tour accommodates up to 12 paddlers per session and is an excellent activity for families, corporate team-building, celebrations, and other groups seeking a Colorado mountain experience. For groups larger than 12 or alternate time slots, contact the team at least 48 hours in advance to arrange availability.

Ready to paddle? Book your outrigger experience at Lake Dillon today.