The Arkansas River is the crown jewel of Colorado whitewater, delivering everything from mellow family floats to some of the…
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Best Late Season Rafting in Colorado
As summer starts to fade and the crowds thin out, Colorado’s rivers still hold some of their best adventures. Late-season rafting offers a unique combination of warm days, crisp mornings, and stunning scenery as the first hints of fall color begin to appear. With flows still prime in many sections, this is the perfect time to trade in the busy mid-summer energy for a more relaxed, personal river experience. From the famous granite walls of Browns Canyon to the high-adrenaline challenge of The Numbers, and the scenic floats along the Upper Colorado River and Shoshone, there’s something for every type of rafter.
Whether you’re looking for your first rafting experience or you’re a seasoned paddler craving late-season thrills, these four river sections are among the very best that Colorado has to offer as the season winds down.
Browns Canyon – Arkansas River
Browns Canyon is the crown jewel of Colorado rafting, and for good reason. Designated a National Monument, this section of the Arkansas River runs through towering granite cliffs with sweeping views of the Collegiate Peaks. The combination of breathtaking scenery and playful whitewater makes Browns Canyon a perfect choice for late-season trips. The Class III to III+ rapids—including fan favorites like Zoom Flume, Pinball, and Big Drop—offer plenty of excitement without being overwhelming, making it ideal for families, groups, and intermediate rafters.
In August and early September, the water remains lively, but the pace is slightly gentler than during the spring runoff. This allows more time to soak in the views, watch for wildlife like bighorn sheep and eagles, and enjoy a refreshing swim in the calmer stretches. Many late-season trips also come with the bonus of smaller group sizes, meaning more personalized attention from your guide.
The Numbers – Arkansas River
For those who thrive on adrenaline, The Numbers delivers one of the most thrilling stretches of whitewater in Colorado. Known for its relentless pace, this 7-mile section features continuous Class IV rapids that demand precise paddle strokes and teamwork. Rapids like Number 4 and Number 5 are steep, technical, and guaranteed to get your heart racing.
Late in the season, water levels drop just enough to make the run more technical, requiring skillful navigation through tight channels and rocky drops. While this makes it even more exciting for experienced rafters, it’s not recommended for first-timers. This section is best enjoyed by those in good physical condition who are ready for a full-body workout and the thrill of taking on some of the state’s most iconic whitewater.
Upper Colorado River – Scenic Float
If your idea of a perfect river day is less about heart-pounding action and more about peaceful scenery, the Upper Colorado River is the ideal late-season choice. Flowing through wide valleys and gentle canyons, this section offers mostly Class II rapids—just enough to keep it exciting, but mild enough for families with young children, first-time paddlers, or those who simply want to kick back and relax.
Late summer brings calmer flows and warmer water temperatures, perfect for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, or simply drifting while taking in the views. The surrounding landscape features colorful rock formations, open meadows, and the occasional glimpse of deer, osprey, or bald eagles. It’s a trip that combines gentle adventure with moments of pure stillness, making it a great way to connect with nature before the seasons change.
Shoshone – Colorado River
The Shoshone section of the Colorado River near Glenwood Springs offers a perfect blend of fun rapids and relaxing stretches. With Class III whitewater, it’s adventurous enough to keep you engaged but approachable for most skill levels.
The trip begins with a lively series of rapids like Tombstone and Maneater, followed by a long scenic float that’s perfect for conversation, wildlife spotting, or simply leaning back and enjoying the views. In late summer, many outfitters offer “laps” through the Shoshone rapids, meaning you can run the whitewater multiple times before drifting downstream. With warm sunshine overhead and the surrounding canyon walls glowing in the late-season light, it’s a rafting trip that feels both energizing and rejuvenating.
Late-Season Rafting Tips
Book early in August for the best mix of warm weather and ideal water levels.
Dress in layers—cooler mornings and evenings can make a light jacket or wetsuit top a smart choice.
Always check river flow reports to see current conditions before booking.
Choose a professional outfitter with experienced guides for safety, insider knowledge, and local history.
Bring a waterproof camera or GoPro—late-season lighting makes for some of the best rafting photos of the year.
Quick Comparison
| River & Section | Difficulty | Best For | Late-Season Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Browns Canyon | Class III–III+ | Families, first-time rafters | Scenic granite canyon, fun and splashy rapids |
| The Numbers | Class IV | Experienced rafters | Continuous technical whitewater |
| Upper Colorado River | Class II | Scenic float seekers | Calm water, alpine views, wildlife |
| Shoshone | Class III | Intermediate adventure | Fun rapids with mellow recovery stretches |
Final Paddle
Late-season rafting in Colorado is more than just a way to wrap up summer—it’s an opportunity to experience the rivers at their most peaceful and intimate. Whether you’re paddling hard through the crashing waves of The Numbers, enjoying the perfect mix of excitement and beauty in Browns Canyon, or drifting lazily down the Upper Colorado with the sun on your face, you’ll find that these late-season runs have a magic all their own.
The season may be winding down, but the adventure is still flowing. Grab a paddle, rally your crew, and make your last river trip of the year one to remember. Book your end of summer raft trip today!
