Colorado is a world-renowned destination for whitewater rafting, with a variety of rivers to suit all levels of experience. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a gentle float or an experienced rafter looking for a challenge, you’ll find the perfect river in Colorado.
Here are some of the bestplaces to raft in Colorado:
Arkansas River
The Arkansas River is one of the most popular rafting rivers in Colorado, and for good reason. It offers a variety of rapids to suit all levels of experience, from Class I to Class V. The river is also home to some stunning scenery, including Browns Canyon National Monument and the Royal Gorge. Browns Canyon is one of the most popular stretches of river to raft in the world and for good reason. It is scenic and has a bunch of fun class III rapids good for the whole family. If you are looking for more adrenaline than try The Numbers class IV stretch or Pine Creek for the experienced class V thrill seekers.
Clear Creek
Clear Creek is a great option if you are looking to stay closer to Denver and the front range. Clear Creek is approximately 35 minutes west of Denver and offers some thrilling whitewater. Clear Creek goes through historic Idaho Springs, rich with mining history. There are three sections to Clear Creek the Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced. Each are appropriately named approximately 6 miles long and are 1/3 day trips. Clear Creek is very continuous and fast paced.
Animas River
The Animas River is another great option for whitewater rafting in Colorado. It offers a variety of rapids, including some of the most challenging in the state on the upper. The river is also home to some beautiful scenery, including the San Juan Mountains. The Animas is located in southern Colorado close to Durango and has a short season.
Yampa River
The Yampa River is a great option for those looking for a more mellow rafting experience. It offers a variety of gentle rapids, as well as some calm stretches where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. The river is also home to some wildlife, including bald eagles and bighorn sheep. The Yamps flows through Steamboat Springs Colorado.
Colorado River
The Colorado River is the largest river in Colorado, and it offers a variety of rafting experiences. You can find everything from gentle floats to challenging rapids on the Colorado River. The river is also home to some stunning scenery, including the Grand Canyon in Arizona.
Cache La Poudre River
The Cache La Poudre River is a great option for those looking for a family-friendly rafting experience. It offers a variety of gentle rapids, as well as some calm stretches where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. The river is also home to some wildlife, including deer and elk.
When to go rafting in Colorado
The best time to go rafting in Colorado is during the spring and summer months. The water levels are typically highest around mid to early June, which makes for more exciting rafting. Some rivers have longer seasons than others. The Arkansas River has a flow program where they receive extra water from July 1st until August 15th to extend the season and keep the river at a fun rafting level as well as to help the conditionsfor the fishery.
How to choose a rafting company
There are many different rafting companies in Colorado, so it’s important to choose one that’s reputable and experienced. When choosing a rafting company, be sure to ask about their safety record and their experience level. You should also ask about the type of rapids they offer. Browns Canyon Rafting has a fantastic safety record, their guides are very experienced and they offer beginner to advanced trips. They are known for some of the best guide training in the state of Colorado.
What to pack for a rafting trip
When packing for a rafting trip, be sure to pack the following items:
- A swimsuit
- A change of clothes
- A hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- A water bottle
- A snack
- A camera/phone
Rafting in Colorado is a great way to experience the state’s natural beauty and excitement. With a variety of rivers to choose from, there’s a rafting experience for everyone in Colorado. So what are you waiting for? Book your rafting trip today!