New Season, New Boat Ramp & Managing COVID-19

New Boat ramp in Hotchkiss

On May 1st, Western Slope SUP will kick off its 4th season serving up river tours, lessons and rentals in the North Fork Valley of Colorado. This year we have recieved an amazing gift in the form of a new boat ramp on the North Fork fo the Gunnison River, just 1/2 mile from our headquarters in Hotchkiss, we also prepaire for the challenges of staying safe during the COVID-19 crisis.

The new Hotchkiss boat ramp is the third of its kind on the 33-mile long North Fork of the Gunnison river. Access has long been a problem for boaters wanting to explore the heart of the North Fork Valley. Over 99% of this river flows through private land, so public access points are few, far between, and difficult to use. This is now changing, as our community has begun to focus on developing its outdoor recreation assets. 7 years in the making, this project was a collaborative effort between Delta County, and Paonia based environemntal group, the Western Slope Conservation Center. Miles of class II-III whitewater await those eager to explore the best kept secret in the North Fork Valley. Western Slope SUP will also use this ramp on its whitewater rafting tours, offered daily May through June.

When we open our doors for the season on May 1st, Colorado will have just ended its stay at home orders due to the COVID-19 crisis. Many Coloradans will be ready to get outside, but safety must reamian the number one priority. WSSUP understands the need to recreate safely, and has a few plans in place to help Coloradans have fun, and stay safe. We will be offering curbside service for our stand up paddle board, kayak and float tube rentals.  We are following all necessary precautions given by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and local authorities, includeing disinfecting surfaces multiple times each day, providing ample hand washing and hand sanitizing opportunities for guests and staff, and asking any staff member to stay home if they or their family have symptoms of the Coronavirus. We are continuing to monitor the situation closely, and will adjust our policies as necessary.

We look forward to a fun, safe season. We hope to share some time with you on the river this year!