Lake Dillon offers a rare high-country setting for a paddling tradition rooted in Polynesian voyaging. At more than 9,000 feet, the reservoir has plenty of open water for recreational paddling. With mountain views and an experience that feels distinctly different from a standard canoe outing.
For visitors looking for outrigger canoeing Colorado, Stand Up Paddle Colorado offers a guided Lake Dillon tour, OC-1 rentals, and a path into the Dillon Outrigger Canoe Club. Guests paddle premium Kai Bartlett canoes, learn about the craft and its traditions, and can book a tour or rental through the outrigger canoe rentals page.
Book your outrigger canoe adventure at Lake Dillon today and experience Colorado paddling at its most distinctive.
If you are curious about the ama, want to paddle with a crew, or are considering seasonal club membership. It helps to start with the design and purpose that make an outrigger canoe unique.
Outrigger Canoeing Colorado: What Is Outrigger Canoeing?
Outrigger canoeing uses a narrow canoe with a separate float, called an ama, attached to one side by connecting arms. The ama helps the canoe stay balanced while the hull remains streamlined for efficient paddling. This distinctive design developed from Polynesian voyaging traditions, where canoes carried people across open water and were closely tied to navigation, community, and respect for the ocean.
The ama changes how the canoe moves
Unlike a standard canoe, an outrigger canoe does not rely only on a wide hull for stability. The ama provides lateral support, so paddlers work with the canoe’s trim, rhythm, and momentum rather than simply steering from the stern. That makes the experience feel smooth and responsive, but it also requires attention to paddle timing and body position. An outrigger is not a kayak with an extra float. It is a specialized craft with its own technique.
OC-1 and OC-6 formats
The number in an outrigger canoe’s name refers to its usual paddler capacity. An OC-1 is a single-person canoe, giving one paddler direct control over the stroke, direction, and pace. An OC-6 is a six-person canoe that turns paddling into a coordinated team activity. The crew follows a shared rhythm, responds to the lead paddlers, and communicates to keep the canoe moving cleanly.
| Feature | OC-1 (Single) | OC-6 (Six-Person) |
|---|---|---|
| Paddlers | 1 | 6 |
| Best for | Solo practice, experienced paddlers | Groups, families, beginners |
| Stability | Lower; tips easily | Higher with crew balance |
| Pace control | Full individual control | Team rhythm, lead caller |
| Rental cost | $120 (2 hours) | $75/paddler tour (1 hour) |
| Instruction included | Safety and paddle talk | Full guided tour plus cultural context |
That shared effort is a major part of the appeal for families, groups, and people who enjoy learning a new sport together.
How it differs from canoeing and kayaking
A regular canoe generally uses a wider hull and a single or double-bladed paddle. A kayak has a covered cockpit and is typically paddled with a double-bladed paddle. Outrigger canoes are usually open, sit lower and narrower on the water, and use single-bladed paddles. The ama adds support without making the craft feel bulky. With instruction and appropriate conditions, beginners can learn the basic stroke and crew rhythm, while experienced paddlers can focus on efficiency and performance.
At Stand Up Paddle Colorado, specialized equipment and safety-first instruction introduce visitors to this tradition in a Colorado setting. The experience offers a practical way to understand why outrigger canoeing Colorado has become a distinctive option for paddlers who want something beyond a standard canoe or kayak.
Outrigger Canoeing at Lake Dillon: Colorado’s Premier Destination
Lake Dillon gives paddlers an unusually scenic setting for outrigger canoeing Colorado visitors can experience without leaving the high country. The reservoir covers approximately 3,300 acres and has 26 miles of shoreline. Creating room to settle into a steady rhythm on the water while taking in wide mountain views.
At more than 9,000 feet above sea level, Lake Dillon is home to the highest marina in North America. That elevation shapes the experience. The air is crisp, the water is cold, and afternoon conditions can change, so paddlers should follow local guidance and plan for a mountain environment. The reward is a perspective that is difficult to match from shore, with the Gore Range and Tenmile Range rising around the reservoir.
Calm flatwater for a balanced paddle
Outrigger canoes are designed around balance, rhythm, and teamwork. Lake Dillon’s flatwater offers a practical place to learn how the canoe moves, coordinate strokes, and enjoy the stability provided by the ama, or side float. Conditions are never guaranteed, but the reservoir can provide the calm surface that makes an introductory paddle approachable and an experienced crew’s stroke feel smooth.
There is also plenty of water on Lake Dillon for recreational paddling. That matters for anyone looking for an active mountain outing that feels spacious rather than confined. A paddle can be a focused athletic session, a scenic group experience, or a quieter way to spend time on the water beneath Colorado’s high peaks.
- Scenic rewards: Paddle with views of the Gore Range, Tenmile Range, and surrounding alpine wilderness
- Spacious conditions: 3,300 acres of open water means you never feel crowded or rushed
- Accessible launch: Direct access from Dillon Marina makes getting on the water simple
Start at Dillon Marina
Stand Up Paddle Colorado operates from Dillon Marina at 150 Marina Drive. The location makes it straightforward to begin on the reservoir and transition from land-based instruction to time on the water. Before arriving, review the current booking details and choose the experience that fits your group. Visit the Lake Dillon location to check availability and book directly.
Outrigger Canoe Rentals and Guided Tours
Lake Dillon offers two straightforward ways to experience outrigger paddling: take an OC-1 out on your own or join a guided tour. Both options use premium canoes shaped by Hawaiian builders Kai Bartlett and Johnny Puakea, connecting a high-country Colorado paddle with the craft and traditions of Polynesian canoeing.
OC-1 rental for an independent paddle
The OC-1 single outrigger canoe rental is $120 for a two-hour rental slot. It is a good fit for paddlers who want time on the water to practice technique. Explore the reservoir, or build confidence in the canoe at their own pace. Experience with an OC-1 is recommended because these are responsive, high-performance craft that can tip more readily than a standard recreational canoe.
Every rental includes a paddle, personal flotation device, and a safety and paddle talk before launch. That orientation covers the essential handling points so you understand the canoe and the conditions before heading out. Lake Dillon has plenty of open water for recreational paddling, but cold mountain water and changing conditions still make preparation important.
- Cost: $120 for two hours
- Recommended for: Experienced paddlers comfortable with a responsive, tippy craft
- Included: Canoe, paddle, PFD, safety and paddle talk
Guided tours with local and Polynesian context
The guided outrigger canoe tour costs $75 per paddler and runs for one hour each day from 10:15 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Up to six paddlers can share one canoe, making the tour a memorable option for families, friends, and visitors who want an introduction without managing the canoe alone.
The experience includes a paddle talk that goes beyond basic instruction. Your guide introduces canoe history and Polynesian terminology, shares the history of Dillon Reservoir, and helps identify mountain peaks around the lake. The result is an active tour with a stronger sense of place, rather than simply a short rental on the water.
Planning a private or custom time
If the daily tour time does not fit your itinerary, custom tour times may be available with at least 48 hours’ notice. Confirm the requested time and availability when booking, especially if your group needs multiple spaces. For the current rental and tour options, visit the Lake Dillon outrigger canoe booking page.
Join the Dillon Outrigger Canoe Club
For paddlers who want more than a single outing, the Dillon Outrigger Canoe Club creates a way to build community around outrigger paddling in Summit County. The club starts June 14 and welcomes both drop-in participants and seasonal members. It is a practical way to spend more time on Lake Dillon while learning the rhythm, teamwork, and respect that make outrigger canoeing Colorado such a distinctive experience.
Choose a drop-in paddle or seasonal membership
- Drop-in: $20 plus tax per session. Try the club before committing to a full season
- Seasonal membership: $150 plus tax. Regular access to morning and sunset paddles
- Capacity: Two six-man canoes, room for up to 12 paddlers total
Club access includes morning and sunset paddles, giving members a chance to get on the water at different points in the day. As always at a high-altitude lake, conditions can change, so paddlers should follow the day’s safety guidance and be prepared for cold water and shifting wind.
Paddle together in six-man canoes
The shared format is central to the experience. Every person contributes to the stroke, timing, and forward movement of the canoe, making communication and cooperation as important as individual strength. It is an inviting format for people who enjoy learning with others, meeting local paddlers, and developing consistency on the water.
The club’s culture is member-driven and grounded in Polynesian principles and the Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Voyaging Society. That connection is reflected in the focus on teamwork, stewardship, and honoring the traditions behind the sport. The goal is not simply to use an unusual boat. It is to participate thoughtfully in a paddling community while respecting the history and values that shaped outrigger canoeing.
Members also receive discounted rates on OC-1 canoes and other rentals. That gives experienced paddlers an opportunity to practice independently or explore a different craft as their skills develop. If you are looking for a guided introduction before joining, learn more about the Pau Hana sunset paddle club and see how the Dillon program can fit your time on Lake Dillon.
What to Expect on Your First Outrigger Paddle
Your first paddle should feel exciting, not confusing. Every rental and tour begins with a safety talk and paddle instruction, including how to handle the canoe, use the paddle, and stay comfortable on the water. Ask questions before launching, especially if this is your first time in an outrigger canoe.
Choose the right canoe for your experience
OC-1 canoes are single-person, ultra-performance craft. They are light and responsive, but they are also fragile and can tip easily. Prior experience is recommended, and a lesson can help you build proficiency before paddling independently. If you are new to the sport, an OC-6 group canoe is a more stable introduction. Paddling with a group lets beginners learn the rhythm of the stroke while sharing the experience with other guests.
Dress for cold water and changing weather
Lake Dillon sits at roughly 9,000 feet, so mountain conditions matter. The water can remain cold, and a wetsuit is recommended through June. Wear clothing that can handle spray, bring sun protection, and expect temperatures to change during the outing. Afternoon winds can also become stronger, so morning paddles may feel more comfortable for guests who prefer calmer conditions. At altitude, you may notice that you tire sooner than expected. Start at an easy pace, breathe steadily, drink water, and tell your guide or group leader if you need a break.
- What to wear: Wetsuit through June, layers for changing conditions, sun protection
- Best time: Morning paddles tend to have calmer wind and flatter water
- Altitude tip: Pace yourself, hydrate, and communicate with your group
Respect the canoe and the people paddling with you
Outrigger canoes are specialized equipment with a strong cultural and athletic tradition. Handle the canoe carefully, follow the launch instructions, and keep your paddle movements coordinated with the group. On an OC-6, listen for calls from the person leading the stroke and avoid sudden movements that can affect the boat. If you are planning a shared outing, explore these group outrigger experiences for a welcoming way to get on the water together.
Book your outrigger canoe rental or tour today and discover why Lake Dillon is Colorado’s premier outrigger destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an outrigger canoe experience cost at Lake Dillon?
A guided tour is $75 per paddler for one hour. An OC-1 rental is $120 for two hours. Rental and tour details can vary, so review the current booking options before reserving your time.
Is outrigger canoeing beginner-friendly?
Yes, beginners can participate with the right introduction. Every rental includes a safety and paddle talk, a paddle, and a personal flotation device. Because OC-1 canoes are lightweight, high-performance craft that can tip easily, experience or a lesson is strongly recommended before paddling independently.
What is included in an outrigger canoe rental or tour?
The outfitter provides the canoe, paddle, and personal flotation device, along with basic safety and paddling guidance. The guided experience also includes a talk about canoe history, Polynesian terminology, Dillon Reservoir, and identifying nearby mountain peaks.
What is the Dillon Outrigger Canoe Club?
The club is a community option for paddlers who want more than a single outing. It offers a $20 drop-in option or a $150 seasonal membership, both plus tax. Club paddles include morning and sunset sessions, with access to two six-person canoes for groups of up to 12 paddlers.
When is the best time to go outrigger canoeing on Lake Dillon?
The Lake Dillon season runs from May 24 through September 2. The lake has plenty of room for recreational paddling, but conditions can change, especially with afternoon winds and cold water at high elevation. Check current availability and conditions when booking, and dress for a mountain-lake environment.
Ready to paddle at Lake Dillon?
Whether you want to try an outrigger canoe tour, reserve an OC-1 rental, or learn more about the Dillon Outrigger Canoe Club, the next step is simple. Explore the available Lake Dillon options and choose the experience that fits your plans.
Book an outrigger canoe rental or guided tour with Stand Up Paddle Colorado and start paddling today.