Boating, paddling, and water safety in Colorado
Kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and launch rules in Colorado
What paddlecraft users should check about markings, life jackets, sound devices, inspections, leashes, launch access, and local water rules.
Paddlecraft still have a rulebook
Marking
A craft that does not need state registration must show the owner's name and address.
Life jacket
Carry the required correctly sized jacket and wear it rather than tying it to the deck.
Sound device
Check whether the craft needs a whistle, horn, or other sound-producing device.
Leash choice
An ankle leash can snag in moving water. CPW points river paddleboarders to a quick-release or breakaway system. Follow the board maker and local rule too.
The shore may be more limited than the water
- Use an established public launch or access point.
- Check parking, carrying distance, entry fees, hours, and gate closures.
- Read no-wake, swimming, fishing, wildlife, and shoreline-use rules for the exact property.
- Do not assume a visible shoreline or road shoulder is public access.
Clean the small craft too
CPW asks paddlers to clean, drain, and dry boards, kayaks, canoes, paddles, leashes, shoes, and wet gear before the next water. If the craft is trailered, plan for the required inspection.
Take this with you
Before carrying down to the water
- ✓ The craft marking and required equipment are in place.
- ✓ The public launch, parking, fee, and operating hours are confirmed.
- ✓ The wind, storm, flow, cold-water, and return plan fit the group.
- ✓ The craft and wet gear are clean, drained, and ready for inspection if required.
Official sources and review
Check the current rule before you act
These links go to the agencies that control this part of the trip. Use the exact page, license, listing, map, order, or confirmation for your situation.
Use this carefully: Paddlecraft rules and launch access vary by water, manager, conditions, and activity. Confirm the exact property and current CPW guidance before launching.
Keep going
The other parts of boating, paddling, and water safety in colorado
Registration and equipment
How the craft, motor, sail, operator, and trip affect registration, the ANS stamp, life jackets, and required onboard gear.
Inspections and Clean, Drain, Dry
How Colorado's ANS stamp, inspection stations, decontamination, launch checks, and gear cleaning fit together.
Life jackets and cold water
A practical water-safety plan for life-jacket fit, cold-water shock, changing weather, falling in, and helping from shore.