Joint Club Paddle

Each year, the Rocky Mountain Canoe Club (RMCC) organizes a scenic float down the South Platte River near Greeley and invites other local rafting and kayaking organizations to participate as guests. As this is an RMCC-hosted event, they manage all logistics, including waivers and safety protocols. This excursion is traditionally a casual, Class I flatwater day trip, making it an ideal outing for novices, families, and those looking to enjoy a relaxed day on the water.

The trip begins at the Riverside Park put-in in Evans, CO, and offers two distance options to suit your pace: a 9-mile float to Kersey Bridge or a longer 15-mile journey to Kuner Bridge. Please note that while the water is gentle, the route is restricted to canoes, kayaks, and very small inflatables. Large-sized rafts cannot be accommodated on this stretch, as this requires portaging that is only manageable with smaller, lighter craft.

Saturday, April 11th is the backup date in case of inclement weather.

Date: Saturday, April 4, 2026

• 9:00 AM | Arrival & Rigging: Meet at Riverside Park in Evans, CO. Begin inflating IKs, rigging boats, and preparing gear for launch.

• 9:30 AM | Logistics & Safety: Group orientation, safety briefing, and shuttle vehicles.

• 10:30 AM | Launch: All boats on the water.

  • Note: Due to extensive private land along the banks, suitable stopping points are limited; plan for a late lunch on the water or at the takeout.

• 3:30 PM | Kersey Bridge Arrival: Estimated arrival for the 9-mile float option.

• 5:30 PM | Kuner Bridge Arrival: Estimated arrival for the 15-mile float option.

Road Traffic & Pedestrian Safety
Please be extremely vigilant at the Kersey and Kuner bridge takeouts. Both locations experience high-speed traffic and a high volume of large trucks. Drivers are not expecting pedestrians; please keep a close watch on children and pets at all times.

Takeout: Kersey Bridge (9 miles)
The takeout is located on river left, downstream of the bridge. While there are established paths up to the road, parking is primarily limited to the highway shoulder. There is a wider pull-out located just past the bridge. Vehicles may need to take turns parking near the bridge to load gear; otherwise, be prepared to carry boats along the shoulder to your vehicle.

Takeout: Kuner Bridge (15 miles)
Boaters continuing to Kuner must take out at the second (southern) bridge.

• Note: The first bridge you see is heavily posted private property and is often inaccessible.

• Parking: Sufficient roadside parking is available on river left (north side of the bridge). Additional parking is available in a large lot on the west side of the road shortly before the bridge.

• Portage to Road: The takeout is downstream of the bridge. Please note this is a difficult haul that requires crossing barbed wire fencing and navigating a steep hill to reach the road.

River Hazards: Dam Portages
There are two dams on this stretch that require mandatory portaging.

• Protocol: Do not attempt to choose a route alone. Allow those familiar with the dams to select the side, set the route, and portage first.

• Conditions: Portages are strenuous. The second dam features steep, rip-rapped banks and thick brush.

• Safety: There is very little staging room above either dam. Maintain a respectful distance to avoid being pulled over the drop.

• Etiquette: We have permission from landowners to portage; please practice "Leave No Trace" principles. Additionally, please stay to assist others with their boats once you have completed your own portage.

Cold Water & Hypothermia
Spring water temperatures are dangerously cold. Your best defense is to travel within sight of companion boats to ensure quick assistance in the event of a capsize. You must bring a dry bag with a full change of clothes on your boat.