// Free Gear Checklist
Our free Beginner's Surf Guide has the exact gear checklist — what to buy first, what to skip, and how to pick a board and wetsuit that won't hold you back. Free, instant.
No spam · Instant delivery · Unsubscribe anytime
// Surf shops
Boards, wetsuits, wax and ding repair — with ratings, phone numbers and directions for each.
We couldn't find any surf shops in Twin Lakes, CO. Try a nearby city, or browse the whole state.
Browse all CO shopsTwin Lakes sits at 9,200 feet in Colorado's Sawatch Range, offering a unique mountain escape where outdoor enthusiasts gather year-round. While you won't find ocean waves here, the local surf shop caters to the lake's paddleboarding and water sports community during summer months, plus serves as a hub for mountain gear and local beta. The shop provides essential equipment rentals, repairs, and insider knowledge about navigating Colorado's highest natural lake. Beyond the water, Twin Lakes delivers stunning alpine scenery with access to the Colorado Trail, fourteener peaks like Mount Elbert, and historic mining remnants. The town's laid-back vibe attracts adventurers seeking genuine mountain culture away from crowded resorts. Stop by the shop to connect with locals who know the best launch spots, weather patterns, and seasonal conditions that make this high-altitude destination special.
Twin Lakes surfing is entirely dependent on the Arkansas River's spring runoff, typically peaking from late May through early July. Outside this window, river flows are generally too low for reliable features. Book lessons or gear rentals well in advance during peak season, as the single documented shop serves a concentrated seasonal demand. Expect cooler water temperatures even in summer; wetsuit layering is essential for prolonged sessions. Before going in, check the local beach forecast and talk to the lifeguard on duty (National Weather Service advice).
The local shop primarily supports whitewater kayaking and river surfing needs. Expect rental packages for river boards and necessary safety gear like PFDs and helmets. While full custom shaping is rare in this high-altitude location, they usually offer basic board repair services for dings sustained on river features. Insider perks often include detailed, up-to-the-minute local flow reports and shuttle coordination advice for accessing specific river breaks.
The prime season runs from late May through mid-July, coinciding with peak snowmelt runoff on the Arkansas River tributaries. Flows drop off significantly by August. Always check current USGS gauge readings before planning a trip, as conditions change rapidly.
Yes, absolutely. Even during the warmest months, the water originating from high alpine sources remains extremely cold. A 4/3mm or thicker wetsuit is necessary for safety and comfort, especially if capsizing occurs near the river features.
Given the limited infrastructure, lessons are often appointment-only and tied to the single local outfitter's availability. It is crucial to contact the shop weeks ahead during the peak season to secure a session, particularly if you require instruction on river dynamics.
The National Weather Service's advice applies here: only swim at a beach with lifeguards, check the local beach forecast and talk to the lifeguard before going in, and remember that rip currents often form on calm, sunny days. If one catches you, don't fight it: relax and float, wave and yell for help, or swim parallel to the beach until you're out of the pull.
