Browns Canyon Rafting Rafting Blog

Rafting Trip FAQs We Get Every Season (Answered by Our Colorado River Guides)

If you’re planning a Colorado rafting tour, you probably have questions. Every season, our guides at Browns Canyon Rafting hear many of the same ones — especially from first-time rafters and families visiting the Arkansas River.

The good news? Whitewater rafting in Colorado is far more approachable than most people expect.

Below, our experienced guides answer the most common rafting questions we get each season to help you feel confident, prepared, and excited for your trip.

Is Browns Canyon Good for First-Time Rafters?

Yes — and that’s one of the biggest reasons it’s one of the most popular rafting trips in Colorado.

Browns Canyon National Monument features Class II–III rapids, which provide excitement, splash, and adventure without extreme intensity. It’s the perfect balance of thrill and accessibility.

Our Colorado rafting tours are ideal for:

First-time rafters
Families with kids
Multi-generational groups
Visitors new to whitewater

Every trip begins with a thorough safety orientation where your guide explains paddle commands, river positioning, and what to expect in the rapids.

You don’t need experience — just a willingness to paddle and have fun.

What Should I Wear for Rafting in Colorado?

Mountain weather changes quickly, even during peak summer.

Here’s what we recommend for a Colorado rafting trip:

Wear:

Swimsuit or quick-dry athletic clothing
Secure water shoes or sandals with straps
Sunglasses with retention strap
Sunscreen (high elevation sun is strong)

Avoid:

Cotton clothing (it stays cold when wet)
Flip-flops
Heavy layers

Depending on the time of year and river flows, we provide wetsuits and splash jackets to keep you comfortable — especially during spring runoff.

If you’re unsure about conditions, our team is always happy to advise before your trip.

When Is the Best Time for Colorado Rafting Tours?

The Arkansas River rafting season typically runs May through September.

Each part of the season offers something different:

May–June (Runoff Season):
Snowmelt from the Rockies creates higher water levels, bigger waves, and faster-moving rapids. This is great for guests looking for a more dynamic ride.

July–August:
Warm air temperatures and consistent flows make this the most popular time for family rafting trips in Colorado.

September:
Cooler mornings, lighter crowds, and beautiful canyon scenery make early fall a hidden gem for rafting.

There’s no “wrong” time — it depends on your comfort level and adventure style.

Is Rafting Safe for Kids?

Yes — when you choose the right stretch of river.

Browns Canyon is widely considered one of the best family rafting destinations in Colorado because it combines scenic wilderness with manageable rapids.

Safety on our Colorado rafting tours includes:

Professionally trained river guides
Coast Guard–approved life jackets
Helmets for all participants
Strict age and weight guidelines based on river conditions
Ongoing monitoring of water levels

Families return year after year because the experience builds confidence, teamwork, and unforgettable memories.

Do I Need to Be in Great Shape to Go Rafting?

No elite fitness level required.

While rafting is active and engaging, most guests find it manageable. You’ll be paddling through sections of the river, but there are also calm stretches where you can relax and enjoy the canyon scenery.

If you can:

Sit upright
Hold a paddle
Follow instructions

You’re ready for a Colorado rafting adventure.

What Makes Browns Canyon Different from Other Colorado Rafting Trips?

Browns Canyon National Monument is protected wilderness, meaning there are no roads cutting through the canyon and no development lining the riverbanks.

What that means for you:

Towering granite cliffs
Remote wilderness views
Wildlife sightings (bighorn sheep, eagles, deer)
A true backcountry Colorado experience

You’re not just rafting — you’re floating through one of the most scenic stretches of river in the state.

How Far in Advance Should I Book?

Peak summer weekends often fill quickly, especially in July and early August.

If you’re planning:

A weekend trip
A group outing
A family vacation
A bachelor or bachelorette party

We recommend booking at least 1–2 weeks in advance during peak season.

Weekday trips typically offer more flexibility.

Why Choose Browns Canyon Rafting for Your Colorado River Adventure?

Not all Colorado rafting tours are the same.

Our guides are passionate about:

River safety
Environmental stewardship
Creating unforgettable guest experiences
Sharing knowledge about the Arkansas River

Whether you’re visiting from out of state or you’re a Colorado local, rafting Browns Canyon is one of the most memorable outdoor experiences you can have in the Rockies.

Ready to Experience One of the Best Colorado Rafting Tours?

Whitewater rafting doesn’t have to feel intimidating. With the right preparation and the right guides, it becomes the highlight of your summer.

If you’re ready to paddle through scenic canyon stretches, splash through exciting rapids, and create memories that last long after the river calms — Browns Canyon is waiting.

Explore trip options and reserve your Colorado rafting tour today!