best arkansas river rafting sections in colorado

Best Sections of the Arkansas River for Rafting in Colorado

Browns Canyon Rafting

Best Sections of the Arkansas River

akansas river sections browns canyon

The Arkansas River is the crown jewel of Colorado whitewater, delivering everything from mellow family floats to some of the most technical rapids in the Rockies. Stretching through granite canyons and pine-lined valleys, it offers an unmatched mix of scenery and adventure. Browns Canyon stands out as the most iconic run, with Class III rapids that blend fun waves, calm pools, and stunning views—perfect for families, first-timers, and groups with mixed skill levels. When it comes to Colorado rafting and adventure, few places can compete with the Arkansas. The Numbers delivers non-stop Class IV whitewater for thrill-seekers ready to push their limits, while Pine Creek ups the ante with Class V challenges that demand expert skill and teamwork. These legendary stretches highlight why Colorado is a world-class rafting destination: whether you’re after an iconic day on the river or a bucket-list whitewater challenge, the Arkansas has a run for every kind of adventurer.

best arkansas river rafting sections in colorado

Browns Canyon – Colorado’s Most Iconic Rafting Trip

Difficulty: Class III–IV
Trip Length: Half-day to full-day options

Scenic Highlights:
Browns Canyon is a designated National Monument, famous for its granite walls, wildlife sightings, and sweeping mountain views. It’s one of the most photographed and celebrated rafting destinations in the country.

Why Choose Browns Canyon:

  • Perfect for families, beginners, and mixed-experience groups.
  • Combines splashy rapids with calmer stretches for relaxing and taking in the views.
  • Known as a must-do trip for first-timers seeking the best whitewater rafting in Colorado without feeling overwhelmed.

👉 Recommended for: families, groups with kids, or anyone new to rafting.

 

akansas sections numbers

The Numbers – Nonstop Action

Difficulty: Class IV+
Trip Length: Half-day  and full-day intense runs

Scenic Highlights:
Set against the backdrop of the Collegiate Peaks, The Numbers offers rugged alpine views—but you won’t be looking around much while navigating the continuous rapids.

Why Choose The Numbers:

  • Designed for seasoned rafters who crave non-stop action.
  • Tight channels, technical moves, and almost no breaks between rapids.
  • Pure adrenaline for those who want to level up after Browns Canyon.

👉 Recommended for: athletic groups and thrill-seekers ready for advanced paddling.

akansas sections pine creek

Pine Creek – Colorado’s Ultimate Challenge

Difficulty: Class V
Trip Length: Half-day, expert-level only

Scenic Highlights:
The steepest, fastest section of the Arkansas, Pine Creek is raw, rugged, and dramatic. Its massive drops and narrow channels make it legendary among expert paddlers.

Why Choose Pine Creek:

  • Considered one of the most technical sections in Colorado.
  • Big water, big drops, and no room for error.
  • Often paired with The Numbers for a back-to-back advanced run.

👉 Recommended for: expert rafters with prior Class IV–V experience only.

Browns Canyon vs. The Numbers – Which Should You Pick?

  • Browns Canyon: Balanced, iconic, and welcoming for most groups. It delivers thrills without being overwhelming and allows time to enjoy the stunning scenery.
  • The Numbers: Demanding, high-intensity, and best for rafters seeking technical challenges and continuous Class IV action.

At Browns Canyon Rafting Company, many guests start with Browns Canyon to get comfortable, then graduate to The Numbers or even Pine Creek for the next level of adventure.

The Best Rafting in Colorado

When it comes to variety, reputation, and accessibility, the Arkansas River is the best rafting river in Colorado.From the scenic beauty of Browns Canyon to the adrenaline rush of The Numbers and Pine Creek, this river offers a journey you’ll never forget. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly fun or heart-pounding Class V rapids, the Arkansas has it all. Book your next adventure today with Browns Canyon Rafting Company and experience why this river is considered the best rafting in Colorado.

best arkansas river rafting sections in colorado

Best Sections of the Arkansas River for Rafting in Colorado

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Best Late Season Rafting in Colorado 2025

Browns Canyon Rafting

Best Late Season Rafting in Colorado

Whitewater raft navigating a churning rapid with paddlers leaning forward into the spray on late season raft trip

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.

late season upper colorado river Group of rafters paddling through foamy whitewater rapids on a sunny day late season.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.

The Numbers Half Day Rafting Trip

helpful linksUpper 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 & SectionDifficultyBest ForLate-Season Highlights
Browns CanyonClass III–III+Families, first-time raftersScenic granite canyon, fun and splashy rapids
The NumbersClass IVExperienced raftersContinuous technical whitewater
Upper Colorado RiverClass IIScenic float seekersCalm water, alpine views, wildlife
ShoshoneClass IIIIntermediate adventureFun 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!

best arkansas river rafting sections in colorado

Best Sections of the Arkansas River for Rafting in Colorado

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2025 Arkansas River Rafting Season Kicks Off

Browns Canyon Rafting Colorado Rafting Blog Best Whitewater Rafting in Colorado

2025 Arkansas River Rafting Season Kicks Off: Catch the Rapids While They Last!

The 2025 Arkansas River rafting season is off to an early and exhilarating start! Thanks to unseasonably warm temperatures and near-normal spring precipitation, Colorado saw a rapid and substantial snowmelt in April, with snowpack in some basins disappearing 1 to 4 weeks earlier than usual, according to data from the National Integrated Drought Information System. This quick melt, occurring between April 10th and 17th, has created ideal rafting conditions right now — but those high water levels won’t last forever. If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to hit the river, this is it.

Why Rafting in Early Season is the Best Bet

  • High, fast flows = thrilling whitewater conditions

  • Cooler spring weather keeps crowds down

  • Shorter rafting window due to early snowmelt and potential summer drought

  • Unforgettable scenery with snowy peaks, granite canyons, and roaring rapids

Whether you’re a first-timer, a family looking for adventure, or a seasoned paddler seeking whitewater action, there’s a stretch of river for you.

2025 arkansas river rafting season kicks off

Raft Through a National Monument on the Browns Canyon Half Day Trip

If you’re looking for a mix of scenic beauty and family-friendly whitewater, the Browns Canyon Half Day rafting trip is an ideal choice. This 10-mile journey through Browns Canyon National Monument features class II–III+ rapids, stunning granite walls, and unforgettable mountain views.

Perfect for all experience levels, this trip offers just the right amount of excitement — whether you’re paddling for the first time or coming back for more. It’s a great way to experience the iconic Arkansas River and one of Colorado’s most treasured natural landmarks.

Crave a Challenge? The Numbers Delivers Nonstop Action

For those craving nonstop whitewater, the Numbers Half Day rafting trip is one of the most exciting sections of river in the state. This class IV stretch is packed with action — featuring 7 major rapids (and countless smaller ones in between) in a thrilling, continuous section just north of Buena Vista.

It’s a wild ride set against the backdrop of the Collegiate Peaks and Mosquito Range, and is best suited for experienced paddlers or adventurous first-timers in good physical condition.


Book Your 2025 Arkansas River Trip Now

The snowpack may be running out early, but that means peak rafting conditions are happening right now. Don’t wait until summer when lower flows may limit trip availability — the river is ready, our guides are geared up, and adventure is just a paddle stroke away.

👉 Book your Arkansas River rafting trip today!

best arkansas river rafting sections in colorado

Best Sections of the Arkansas River for Rafting in Colorado

The Arkansas River is the crown jewel of Colorado whitewater, delivering everything from mellow family floats to some of the…

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Whitewater raft navigating a churning rapid with paddlers leaning forward into the spray on late season raft trip

Best Late Season Rafting in Colorado 2025

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best trip for families on arkansas river

The Best Family Rafting Trip on the Arkansas River

Browns Canyon Rafting

The Best Family Rafting Trip on the Arkansas River

best family rafting trip on the arkansas river

 

Rafting the Arkansas River is a must for families visiting Colorado

Looking for the perfect introduction to whitewater rafting that the whole family can enjoy? Browns Canyon Rafting’s Family Float is exactly that—a gentle, scenic ride down the Arkansas River that’s designed with all ages in mind. This half-day adventure features mild Class I–II rapids, making it ideal for young children, cautious first-timers, and multi-generational groups alike. What makes it truly special is the combination of safe, guided rafting with unforgettable views of Browns Canyon National Monument. Surrounded by granite cliffs, mountain peaks, and the occasional sighting of wildlife, families get to enjoy the beauty of Colorado’s backcountry—without the intensity of high-adrenaline rapids.

best family float trip on arkasas river

What Is the Family Float Trip?

The Family Float is a half-day rafting adventure along a calm and scenic stretch of the Arkansas River. Covering approximately 10 miles over 3.5 hours, this trip features gentle Class I–II rapids—perfect for soaking in the natural beauty while enjoying just the right amount of splash.

Designed with comfort and accessibility in mind, the Family Float is ideal for:

  • Families with young children (as young as 4 years old and 30 lbs)
  • First-time rafters who want a safe and easy introduction
  • Multi-generational groups looking for a shared outdoor experience

Trips depart daily from Buena Vista, Colorado, with morning and afternoon options available—9:00 AM and 1:30 PM departures make it easy to fit into your summer plans. Availability runs May through Labor Day, and spots fill quickly during peak season, so early booking is recommended!

Why It’s Perfect for Families

The Family Float is crafted with families in mind, offering the right mix of safety, fun, and relaxation. The calm waters and mild rapids (Class I–II) provide just enough excitement for kids without overwhelming first-time rafters or older family members. With a minimum age of just 4 years old and a 30-pound weight requirement, even the youngest adventurers can join in. Along the way, there are plenty of chances to splash, swim, or simply drift and take in the views—it’s a choose-your-own-adventure kind of ride. Best of all, you’ll be in the hands of professional, friendly guides who not only keep everyone safe but also add to the experience with local knowledge, water games, and kid-friendly encouragement. It’s the kind of trip where lifelong memories are made—one gentle rapid at a time.

Make Memories That Matter

If you’ve been looking for a way to unplug, reconnect, and try something new as a family, the Family Float with Browns Canyon Rafting is the perfect opportunity. With its stunning canyon views, gentle rapids, and a team of expert guides focused on safety and fun, this trip offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure that everyone—from toddlers to grandparents—can enjoy. At Browns Canyon Rafting, we pride ourselves on delivering not just a safe adventure—but a warm, welcoming experience for all ages, rain or shine. Don’t wait to make those memories. Book your Family Float today and experience the joy, laughter, and beauty of the Arkansas River together!

best trip for families on arkansas river🌟 Real Stories from Families Like Yours

First-time rafter? You’re in good company. Here’s what one happy parent had to say:

“Wonderful first time rafting experience for our whole family! The crew is very knowledgeable about the river and are experienced rafters which was extremely reassuring as we navigated the rapids with our kids ages 9 and 12. Everyone was incredibly friendly and went out of their way to make us comfortable on a not so perfect weather conditions type of day.”
Jodi Wendte, Google Review

 

Browns Canyon Colorado white water rafting buena vista

Denver Day Trips: Adventure like a Colorado local!

Browns Canyon Rafting Colorado Rafting Blog Best Whitewater Rafting in Colorado

rafting in buena vista colorado

Denver Day Trips: Adventure like a Colorado local!

Denver’s a bustling city, but the call of the wild is strong. Luckily, a day trip from Denver can land you in Buena Vista, Colorado – a charming mountain town nestled near the Arkansas River, famed for its epic Colorado rafting, amazing mountain bike trails, relaxing hot springs and a variety of hiking trails for any skill level. Buena Vista, Colorado is approximately a two hour drive from Denver making it close enough for an amazing Denver day trip or extend your stay and make it a great weekend getaway from Denver!

This guide offers exciting day or weekend trip options out of Buena Vista, giving you a taste of adventure that rivals Denver’s vibrant character!

1. Buena Vista Rafting and Alternatives: Embrace the Water!

  • Rafting: Browns Canyon Rafting on the Arkansas River offers exhilarating experiences for all ages and ability levels. Half day, full day and overnight trips:
    • Browns Canyon National Monument is the most popular trip, this is the perfect mix of fun rapids and breathtaking scenery.
    • The Numbers is a step up rapid wise and is very continuous, great for thrill seekers.
    • The Family Float is great for young children and the group looking to relax and take in the views.
  • Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP): Glide down the calmer sections of the Arkansas River, enjoying the scenery and working your core.
  • Surf’s up: Both Buena Vista and our neighbor Salida have white water play parks going through town with multiple wave features. Bring your surfboard, SUP or kayak and play on the waves. If you are looking for rentals CKS (Colorado Kayak Supply) on main street has you covered!

2. Mountain Biking: Adrenaline Rush on Two Wheels!

Buena Vista boasts a network of exhilarating mountain biking trails directly from Main Street and in the surrounding area. Check out these trails. From beginner-friendly loops to heart-pounding descents, get your blood pumping on a scenic ride. If you need to rent a bike we recommend Black Burro Bikes.

3. Channel Your Inner Climber:

Buena Vista boasts stunning rock climbing opportunities. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a curious beginner, there are routes to challenge and exhilarate you. Bob’s Rock, Elephant Rock and Chocolate Towers are just a few areas that are easily accessed off County Road 371 in the Four Mile Travel Management Area.

4. Scenic Hikes with a Browns Canyon Bonus:

For breathtaking views without the whitewater, explore the trails around Buena Vista. Hike to overlooks or waterfalls, soaking in the beauty of the Collegiate Peaks. Hike through Browns Canyon National Monument, summit one of the many 14ers in the area or just enjoy a nice stroll through town next to the river. There is something for everyone.

5. Other Activities. Hot Springs, Horseback Ride, Zipline and Razor Rentals:

  • There are two beautiful and relaxing hot springs in the area. Mount Princeton Hot Springs and Cottonwood Hot Springs.
  • Giddy up! Horseback riding through the Collegiate Peaks is a blast. One hour to full day trips available, check them out here.
  • Jumping on a zipline tour on your way back to Denver is a great way to end your perfect day trip. Leadville Colorado is on your way back to Denver and hosts one of the best ziplines in the country. Check out zipline trips here.
  • Varoom varoom. If motors are your thing Buena Vista is a great place to explore hundreds of miles of off road trails. There are mountain passes, ghost towns and high alpine deserts. Side by side rentals can be found here.

Bonus Tip: Combine these activities! For example, try a morning raft adventure followed by an afternoon horseback ride. Check out combination trips here or we can help you put together any adventure combo you can think of.

There are too many amazing and fun outdoor activities to do in Buena Vista to name them all or do in a single day trip! We recommend coming for a few days if you have the time and if you need any guidance or recommendations please give us a call at (719) 275-2890.

Remember, safety first! Be sure to choose activities that match your skill level and research any necessary permits or equipment rentals.

So ditch the Denver crowds and head to Buena Vista for a day trip packed with adventure! These options will definitely leave you with a thirst for more mountain thrills.

family friendly river trips arkansas river colorado

Unleash Your Family’s Wild Side: A Colorado Rafting Adventure in Browns Canyon National Monument

Browns Canyon Rafting Colorado Rafting Blog Best Whitewater Rafting in Colorado

Family Fun on the river: A Colorado Rafting Adventure in Browns Canyon National Monument

Are you searching for an unforgettable adventure that creates lasting memories for the whole family? Look no further than Browns Canyon Rafting, your gateway to exhilarating whitewater rafting in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains!

We understand that parents might have concerns about safety when it comes to whitewater rafting with children. At Browns Canyon Rafting, safety is our top priority. Our highly experienced and certified guides are experts in navigating the rapids and creating enjoyable experiences for all ages and ability levels. We provide all necessary rafting gear, including life jackets, helmets, and paddles. Our trips are specifically designed for families, with rapids that are thrilling but manageable, perfect for creating a sense of accomplishment and shared adventure.

Family white water rafting browns canyon colorado

How old does my child need to be to go rafting?

Our most popular family rafting trips cater to children ages 6 and up. These sections of the river offer exciting splashes and scenic vistas, providing a taste of whitewater adventure without overwhelming younger paddlers. We like to say Browns Canyon National Monument is the “Goldie Locks” of rafting, fun rapids with nothing too crazy and not just a float either. For an even calmer ride, we also offer scenic float trips suitable for all ages as young as three, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

What makes Browns Canyon Rafting ideal for families?

  • Experienced & Friendly Guides: Our guides are the best in the industry focusing on safety and creating a fun and engaging atmosphere. They are passionate about sharing their knowledge of the canyon and making sure every family has a blast.
  • Family-Friendly Rapids: We offer a variety of trips with varying difficulty levels, ensuring you choose the perfect level of excitement for your crew.
  • Memorable Adventure: Rafting in Browns Canyon National Monument creates lasting memories for families. Imagine the high fives, shared laughter, and sense of accomplishment after conquering the rapids together!
  • More Than Just Rafting: Many of our trips include scenic stretches of calm water, perfect for relaxing, taking in the stunning scenery, and spotting wildlife like bald eagles or bighorn sheep.

Don’t just take our word for it! Here’s what some of our happy families have to say:

  • “We booked a Browns Canyon rafting trip with our two boys (ages 8 & 10) and it was the highlight of our Colorado vacation! The guides were fantastic with the kids, keeping them safe and engaged the whole time. We all had a blast!” – The Miller Family, Denver, CO

  • “Our family rafting trip was an incredible bonding experience. We worked together navigating the rapids, and the scenic sections were breathtaking. It’s a memory we’ll cherish forever!” – The Johnson Family, Austin, TX

family friendly float trips buena vista colorado

Ready to embark on your own Colorado family rafting adventure?

Browns Canyon Rafting offers a variety of Colorado rafting trips, from scenic floats to exciting whitewater adventures, perfect for families of all ages and experience levels. Check out all our trips here or call us today at (719) 275-2890 to learn more and book your unforgettable Browns Canyon rafting experience! Located just a short drive from Denver, Colorado Springs, Vail, Aspen or Summit County Browns Canyon National Monument offers some of the best whitewater rafting in Colorado making it the perfect escape for your family vacation. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to create lasting memories that will have your family talking about it for years to come!

best arkansas river rafting sections in colorado

Best Sections of the Arkansas River for Rafting in Colorado

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Whitewater raft navigating a churning rapid with paddlers leaning forward into the spray on late season raft trip

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Arkansas River Rafting, Rafting in Colorado

Top 3 Arkansas River Rafting Trips

Browns Canyon Rafting Colorado Rafting Blog Best Whitewater Rafting in Colorado
Buena Vista rafting season is here! The sun is shining, the birds are chirping and the snow is melting, yay Spring!  The rivers are flowing and so is Arkansas River rafting. Colorado’s rafting season is just around the corner and we are excited here at Browns Canyon Rafting. It is that time of year when love is in the air, bees are buzzing, and raft guides are dreaming of whitewater, hopefully you are too. May is a great time to come rafting and we have some great trips to choose from! When I was seven years old I went on my first rafting trip ever, it was an overnight through Browns Canyon. Much has changed in the past 27 years; Y2K has come and gone, the internet has changed the way we live life from day to day and Browns Canyon is a National Monument! Something that hasn’t changed is the beauty, serenity and amazing whitewater the Arkansas River has to offer. Below are my favorite three Arkansas River rafting trips, in no particular order. There are so many great sections on the Arkansas River that it is hard to narrow my favorites down, but if I must I must.

Arkansas River Rafting, Colorado Rafting TripsNumbers Half Day

The Numbers half day trip is one of my favorites! The Numbers is widely considered just about the best class IV run in Colorado. The rapids are named one through seven with some half’s in-between, real original names I know. Miners in the late 1800’s named these rapids to avoid crossing the Arkansas River at these spots. Original names or not, these rapids pack a punch and are great at any water level. This is probably the most continuous stretch of whitewater on the Arkansas River and is sooooo much fun.

Browns Canyon National Monument, Arkansas River Rafting Browns Canyon Full Day

As I mentioned before Browns Canyon was my first rafting trip when I was seven. I loved it so much that I found myself back here years later guiding this stretch, sharing my passion for nature, whitewater and the river lifestyle with others. Our Browns Canyon National Monument Full Day trip is my favorite day trip on the Arkansas River and possibly in the world. The beauty of Browns Canyon is unbelievable with it’s large granite boulder fields and views of the many fourteen thousand foot peaks surrounding the canyon. The whitewater is great too! Rafting through Browns Canyon you will travel about 16 miles of fun splashy class III rapids. It is the perfect combination of fun rapids with enough time in-between to enjoy all of the breath taking views! Great for the whole family.

Numbers/Browns Canyon Multi-Day Wilderness Trip

Since my first overnight rafting trip I have gone on countless more making friends and memories along the way. Overnight rafting trips are hands down the best way to enjoy the river, friends and family, in my opinion. Camping in Browns Canyon National Monument is an unforgettable experience. My favorite overnight Arkansas River rafting trip is The Numbers and Browns Canyon multi-day. It is the best of both worlds. You start your adventure with the exciting and continuous Numbers section on day one and continue to float downstream to Browns Canyon National Monument where you camp in the secluded wilderness of Browns Canyon. On the second day you will continue your adventure downstream through the rest of Browns Canyon enjoying the majestic views and fun whitewater along the way. Eat well, have fun and relax; these are the important things on any overnight whitewater rafting trip. Thinking and writing about all this Buena Vista white water rafting has gotten me all excited, I think I will head to the river right now! I hope that I can share some memories with you starting in a few short weeks, see you on the river!
best arkansas river rafting sections in colorado

Best Sections of the Arkansas River for Rafting in Colorado

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great water year

Great Water Year!

Browns Canyon Rafting Colorado Rafting Blog Best Whitewater Rafting in Colorado

2015 Great water year for the Arkansas River

This year has turned into a great water year for the Arkansas River. A great water year means a great rafting year!
The rafting season has kicked off and the flows have been great with a slow melt off leaving plenty of snow for water later in the season. We have been rafting on a fun friendly water level of around 1000 cfs (cubic feet per second) this last week. This level is perfect for big splashes, smiles and memories to last a lifetime.
With this snowpack we should have great whitewater rafting all the way through August! Whether you live in Colorado or are out in Colorado for a vacation, this year is a great year to get out and get wet. Plan your vacation or stay-cation and go whitewater rafting. Browns Canyon Rafting offers a variety of trips whether you are looking for a fun family friendly trip or if you are looking for the extreme adrenaline pumping outing, and everything in between.
When choosing a trip assess your groups ability levels and pick accordingly. If you ever have questions or would like help choosing the right trip for your group feel free to call us at 719 275-2890 and our helpful adventure agents would love to assist you.

#ArkansasRiver #whitewater #rafting #brownscanyonrafting #coloradorafting #colorado #fun #snowpack

great water year
best arkansas river rafting sections in colorado

Best Sections of the Arkansas River for Rafting in Colorado

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Whitewater raft navigating a churning rapid with paddlers leaning forward into the spray on late season raft trip

Best Late Season Rafting in Colorado 2025

As summer starts to fade and the crowds thin out, Colorado’s rivers still hold some of their best adventures. Late-season…

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most popular beginner rafting trips in colorado

Most Popular Beginner Rafting Trips in Colorado

Most Popular Beginner Rafting Trips in Colorado Colorado is a whitewater paradise, offering some of the most scenic and beginner-friendly…

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Whitewater rafting on Colorado's Arkansas River Image.

First Trip of 2013!

Browns Canyon Rafting Colorado Rafting Blog Best Whitewater Rafting in Colorado

Our Fist trip of the 2013 Colorado Whitewater Rafting season was on Friday 05/03/13! Water levels are starting to rise and the rafting is just gonna get better with every passing day. Come out and play on Colorado’s Whitewater… Book your trip today!

Whitewater rafting on Colorado's Arkansas River Image.
best arkansas river rafting sections in colorado

Best Sections of the Arkansas River for Rafting in Colorado

The Arkansas River is the crown jewel of Colorado whitewater, delivering everything from mellow family floats to some of the…

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Whitewater raft navigating a churning rapid with paddlers leaning forward into the spray on late season raft trip

Best Late Season Rafting in Colorado 2025

As summer starts to fade and the crowds thin out, Colorado’s rivers still hold some of their best adventures. Late-season…

Read More
most popular beginner rafting trips in colorado

Most Popular Beginner Rafting Trips in Colorado

Most Popular Beginner Rafting Trips in Colorado Colorado is a whitewater paradise, offering some of the most scenic and beginner-friendly…

Read More