North Star Nature Preserve
Rentals and Shuttles
Convenient transportation to and from the North Star Nature Preserve
Avoid parking challenges and crowded trailhead access points
Safe and reliable shuttle service operated by experienced local drivers
Plenty of room for paddleboards, inflatable kayaks, and river gear
Spend more time enjoying the river and less time worrying about logistics
Local staff provide helpful information about river conditions, launch locations, and preserve regulations
Northstar Nature Preserve Shuttles
Northstar Nature Preserve Rentals
Spend a couple of hours on the glassy waters of the North Star Nature Preserve
About the Experience
This is a great option for DIY paddlers. Take advantage of our stand up paddle board and inflatable kayak rental program at North Star Nature Preserve. The preserve’s beaches are easily accessible by car and allow for enjoyment for the whole family. If you have some basic SUPing or kayaking experience, rentals can certainly be an option for you. If you have never paddled before, we highly recommend taking one of our SUP or inflatable kayak classes downstream before venturing out on your own.
North Star Nature Preserve is located just two miles southeast of downtown Aspen in the White River National Forest. This area encompasses the Roaring Fork River, wetlands and many species of wildlife. Everywhere you look are beautiful and impressive photo spots, as well as, lots of memories to be created. SUPs and inflatable kayaks are the preferred craft and are perfect for all skill levels. Beginners will find the shallow waters very inviting. The still water is crystal clear and you can often spot fish swimming in the water beneath your boat. Pack yourself a picnic lunch, and take a break on the Beach to eat, lay in the sun, or swim in the refreshing waters.
Please remember that North Star is a nature preserve and obey all regulations. There is no stopping/beaching anywhere outside of the designated Beach, the put-in and the take-out. There is no access to the west side of the river, audible music, glass containers or dogs allowed in the North Star Nature Preserve. Also, please pack out everything you bring in to the preserve.
Help Us Protect Northstar.
The North Star Nature Preserve is one of Aspen's most treasured natural areas, providing critical habitat for wildlife and a peaceful place for people to connect with nature. As guides who spend countless hours on these waters, we recognize our responsibility to protect the very environment that makes this experience so special.
At Thunder River Adventures, we believe that people are more likely to protect what they know and love. By sharing the beauty of North Star with our guests, we hope to foster a deeper appreciation for the preserve, its wetlands, and the wildlife that depends on this unique ecosystem. From osprey and waterfowl to trout and other native species, North Star is home to an incredible diversity of life that deserves our care and stewardship.
Our guides promote Leave No Trace principles, conservation-minded recreation, and responsible river use. Through education, respect, and sustainable practices, we strive to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the North Star Nature Preserve for years to come.
“Experience Nature. Then you know why it is worth protecting”
— Ed Begley, Jr.