Frequently Asked Questions
Planning your adventure with Float Shack paddle board rentals in Crested Butte? Below are answers to the most common questions about our SUP rentals, inflatable kayak rentals, Slate River Float Trips, and lake paddle boarding destinations.
General Paddle Board Rental Questions
What types of watercraft do you rent in Crested Butte?
Float Shack offers several types of paddle board and kayak rentals in Crested Butte, including:
- Stand-Up Paddle Boards (SUPs)
- Inflatable 2-Person Kayaks
- Family / Multi-Person Paddle Boards (3–5 riders)
All of our gear is designed for stability and ease of use for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
What is included with a paddle board rental?
Every Crested Butte paddle board rental package includes:
- Paddle board
- SUP paddle
- Coast Guard-approved PFD (life jacket)
- Appropriate fins (lake or river)
- Tie-down straps for vehicle transport
- Instructions on how to safely secure the board to your vehicle
Extra paddles and PFDs can be added during checkout.
Do you offer inflatable kayak rentals in Crested Butte?
Yes. We rent 2-person inflatable kayaks designed for both lake paddling and gentle river floats like the Slate River.
Each inflatable kayak rental in Crested Butte includes:
- Two kayak paddles
- Two PFDs
- Self-bailing kayak design for river use
These kayaks can also be paddled solo.
Do you offer large family or group paddle boards?
Yes. Float Shack rents multi-person paddle boards in Crested Butte designed for groups.
We offer two sizes:
- 12 ft board – up to 725 lbs capacity (approx. 3 riders)
- 15 ft board – up to 1150 lbs capacity (approx. 4–5 riders)
These boards are extremely stable and great for families or group adventures.
Slate River Float Trip Questions
How long is the Slate River Float Trip?
The Slate River Float Trip in Crested Butte is approximately:
- 5 miles long
- Typically 1.5 – 2 hours on the water
Float time may vary depending on river flow levels.
Where do we meet for the Slate River Float Trip?
All float trips begin at the Slate River put-in on Pyramid Avenue in Crested Butte.
Float Shack crew will meet your group there with your rental equipment and provide a full safety and river orientation.
Do you provide shuttle service for the Slate River float?
Yes. We offer an optional river shuttle service for the Slate River Float Trip.
Drivers will follow the Float Shack shuttle vehicle to the take-out at Brush Creek Road, park their vehicle, and then ride back to the river put-in.
This allows your group to float directly to your vehicle.
This allows your group to float directly to your vehicle.
What happens if we fall in the river?
The Slate River is generally a gentle, family-friendly float, but swimming is always possible.
We recommend leaving:
- Towels
- Dry clothes
- Snacks or drinks
in your vehicle at the take-out location for comfort after the float.
Lake Paddle Boarding Questions
What are the best lakes for paddle boarding near Crested Butte?
Our favorite destinations for lake paddle board rentals near Crested Butte include:
- Lake Irwin – closest alpine lake to town
- Lost Lake – calm and family-friendly
- Emerald Lake – scenic high-alpine destination
Each offers calm water perfect for stand-up paddle boarding.
Do you deliver paddle boards to the lakes?
No. Due to strict Gunnison National Forest regulations, we are not permitted to deliver rental gear directly to alpine lakes.
Guests transport gear from their Crested Butte accommodations using straps we provide.
We will show you how to secure the equipment safely to your vehicle.
Rental Logistics Questions
What rental time options are available?
Most paddle board rentals in Crested Butte are available as:
- Half Day (4 hours)
- Full Day (any 8 hours between 8 AM – 6 PM)
- Overnight rentals
- Weekly rentals
Multi-person paddle boards are available full-day only.
Can you deliver gear to our lodging?
Yes. Float Shack offers delivery to local Crested Butte accommodations including vacation rentals and hotels.
We also deliver directly to the Slate River put-in for float trips.
Are dogs allowed on paddle boards?
Yes! Dogs are welcome on our boards.
We recommend trimming nails to avoid damaging equipment. We also offer dog PFD rentals for added safety.
Safety Questions
Is paddle boarding beginner-friendly?
Yes. Our paddle board rentals in Crested Butte are designed to be extremely stable and beginner-friendly.
- Equipment instruction
- River safety briefing (for float trips)
- Transport guidance for lake rentals
We want everyone to feel comfortable before heading out.
Reservations & Policies
What is your cancellation policy?
Our paddle board rental cancellation policy includes:
- Full refund with 72+ hours notice
- Inside 72 hours: one reschedule or full-value gift card
- No-shows are not refunded or rebooked
Gift cards never expire.
Do you offer gear insurance?
Yes. Optional equipment insurance is available during checkout and covers accidental damage.
Lost or stolen items are not covered.
Still Have Questions
Our local team is happy to help you plan your paddle board rental in Crested Butte, Colorado.
We look forward to getting you on the water.