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Browns Canyon Rafting

Denver
White Water Rafting

 denver colorado rafting trips
Welcome To Browns Canyon Rafting

Rafting Trips Near Denver, CO

Browns Canyon Rafting, a family- and guide-owned whitewater rafting company near Denver, CO, offers exhilarating river adventures for all skill levels. Whether you’re ready to take on the high-energy rapids of The Numbers, navigate the thrilling waters of Clear Creek, or unwind on a peaceful float through the scenic Browns Canyon National Monument, we’ve got the ideal trip for you. Dive into the untamed beauty of Colorado’s pristine rivers and create unforgettable memories with us today!

Call Today To Book

(719) 275-2890

whitewater rafting near denver colorado
Browns Canyon Rafting Adventures

Most Popular Rafting Trips Near Crested Butte, CO

At Browns Canyon Rafting, we offer unforgettable adventures for all skill levels, from beginners to thrill-seekers. Experience the excitement of Clear Creek whitewater rafting and inflatable kayaking on our range of half-day, full-day, and overnight trips, all easily accessible from Denver, CO.

 
Browns Canyon Half Day Rafting Trip

Browns Canyon Half Day

Raft through Browns Canyon National Monument on the Arkansas River. Our half day Browns Canyon rafting trip takes you down approximately 10 miles of the exciting and beautiful Arkansas River. This Colorado white water rafting trip is appropriate for most ages and abilities. There are plenty of fun class II-III+ rapids and majestic views of the beautiful granite canyon. Whether you’re a first time rafter, an experienced paddler or a family looking for some excitement, Browns Canyon is the place for you! Expect to get wet on this adventure as a member of our highly trained and certified staff guide you through this fun stretch of river. This 3+ hour trip offers incredibly scenic views of the Collegiate Peaks, an abundance of protected wildlife, and crystal clear Rocky Mountain white water. Between rapids, you’ll have time to relax and catch your breath as you get to know your guide and learn more about the majestic views all around you. Our half day trips leave our Buena Vista white water outpost at 9 am or 1:30 pm, check in 30 minutes prior. Highlights
  • Approximately 10 river miles
  • Raft through Browns Canyon National Monument
  • Rapids such as Pin Ball, Zoom Flume and Big Drop
  • Family intermediate white water rafting
  • $106
  • ~3.5 Hours
  • III & IV
The Numbers Half Day Rafting Trip

Numbers Half Day

The Numbers on the Arkansas River is one of the best sections of white water rafting in Colorado if you are looking for a fun, action packed, non-stop ride. This class IV intermediate to advanced rafting trip is great for experienced rafters or adventurous first timers. Participants should be in good physical condition and ready to paddle! The Numbers half day section has 7 major rapids, numbered off one through seven (real original names, I know) but that’s not all, there are plenty of other rapids in-between the major ones. This section is very continuous without much down time. Not only is this section exciting but it is beautiful too. There are many majestic views of the Collegiate Peaks and the Mosquito mountain range located just north of Buena Vista, Colorado. Trip times are at 10 am and 12:45 pm out of our Buena Vista outpost. We recommend participants to be 15 years old or older. Free wetsuit, splash top and river shoe rentals are included. We are sure to give you and your group the thrill of a lifetime with this rafting tour.
  • $115
  • ~3 Hours
  • IV
Family float half day rafting trip in Colorado through Browns Canyon on the Arkansas River.

Family Float Half Day

Raft through Browns Canyon National Monument on the Arkansas River. Our half day Browns Canyon rafting trip takes you down approximately 10 miles of the exciting and beautiful Arkansas River. This Colorado white water rafting trip is appropriate for most ages and abilities. There are plenty of fun class II-III+ rapids and majestic views of the beautiful granite canyon. Whether you’re a first time rafter, an experienced paddler or a family looking for some excitement, Browns Canyon is the place for you! Expect to get wet on this adventure as a member of our highly trained and certified staff guide you through this fun stretch of river. This 3+ hour trip offers incredibly scenic views of the Collegiate Peaks, an abundance of protected wildlife, and crystal clear Rocky Mountain white water. Between rapids, you’ll have time to relax and catch your breath as you get to know your guide and learn more about the majestic views all around you. Our half day trips leave our Buena Vista white water outpost at 9 am or 1:30 pm, check in 30 minutes prior. Highlights
  • Approximately 10 river miles
  • Raft through Browns Canyon National Monument
  • Rapids such as Pin Ball, Zoom Flume and Big Drop
  • Family intermediate white water rafting
  • $106
  • ~3.5 Hours
  • II
Browns Canyon Full Day

Browns Canyon Full Day

Raft through Browns Canyon National Monument on the Arkansas River. Our half day Browns Canyon rafting trip takes you down approximately 10 miles of the exciting and beautiful Arkansas River. This Colorado white water rafting trip is appropriate for most ages and abilities. There are plenty of fun class II-III+ rapids and majestic views of the beautiful granite canyon. Whether you’re a first time rafter, an experienced paddler or a family looking for some excitement, Browns Canyon is the place for you! Expect to get wet on this adventure as a member of our highly trained and certified staff guide you through this fun stretch of river. This 3+ hour trip offers incredibly scenic views of the Collegiate Peaks, an abundance of protected wildlife, and crystal clear Rocky Mountain white water. Between rapids, you’ll have time to relax and catch your breath as you get to know your guide and learn more about the majestic views all around you. Our half day trips leave our Buena Vista white water outpost at 9 am or 1:30 pm, check in 30 minutes prior. Highlights
  • Approximately 10 river miles
  • Raft through Browns Canyon National Monument
  • Rapids such as Pin Ball, Zoom Flume and Big Drop
  • Family intermediate white water rafting
  • $106
  • ~3.5 Hours
  • II
Number Full Day Rafting Trip

Numbers Full Day

The Numbers section of the Arkansas River offers some of the greatest white water rafting in Colorado and in the country!  This Buena Vista white water rafting trip will show you the meaning of excitement. Experience 13 miles of continuous class IV+ rapids that are sure to provide a heart pounding and adrenaline pumping adventure. If you’re looking for big drops, splashes and non-stop action then this is the rafting trip for you. Pay close attention your expert guide as he instructs and maneuvers the raft with the help of your paddles through the steep drops and narrow channels. Try not to miss the majestic views of the Collegiate Peaks as you navigate eight Class IV+ exciting rapids and continuous whitewater before lunch. Take a much needed break and catch your breath while enjoying a delicious riverside lunch prepared for you by your guide. We continue the excitement down stream as you raft The Narrows section, also known as Wild Horse Canyon, and tackling six more Class III-IV rapids.  Your trip concludes in our town’s favorite spot, the Buena Vista white water play park.  Up for another challenge?  Your guide can surely be talked into surfing the play wave! This is a physically demanding trip, appropriate for thrill seekers or adventurous first timers.  Good physical condition is recommended. Highlights
  • Action packed Intermediate to advanced Colorado white water rafting
    • No experience necessary but good physical condition recommended
  • Free wetsuit, splash top and footwear rentals
  • Experienced and entertaining guides
  • Majestic Rocky Mountain views
  • Fresh and delicious deli style lunch
  • $175
  • 5 Hours
  • IV
Private Full or Half Day Raft Trip - Browns Canyon Rafting

Private Full or Half Day Raft Trip

Enjoy a fully customizable private raft trip on the Arkansas River. This trip is exclusive to your group. We will create a custom trip with your own private shuttle, raft, guide… your own adventure! Choose which river section and what time you would like to raft. Browns Canyon National Monument (anytime between 9am and 3pm), The Numbers (any time between 9am and 2pm) or our Family Float (anytime between 9am and 3pm). This trip includes all rafting equipment, wetsuit packages and lunch on the full day. The listed price is for one raft with up to six guests. If your group is larger please let us know and we can give you a custom quote. Give us a call and we can create the best trip for you and your group! Highlights
  • Private Shuttle And Raft
  • Custom Trip Time
  • Free Wetsuit, Splash Top, And River Shoe Rentals
  • World-Class White Water
  • $995 - $1395
  • Half or Full Day
  • II – IV
Browns Canyon Half Day Rafting Trip

Browns Canyon Half Day

Raft through Browns Canyon National Monument on the Arkansas River. Our half day Browns Canyon rafting trip takes you down approximately 10 miles of the exciting and beautiful Arkansas River. This Colorado white water rafting trip is appropriate for most ages and abilities. There are plenty of fun class II-III+ rapids and majestic views of the beautiful granite canyon. Whether you’re a first time rafter, an experienced paddler or a family looking for some excitement, Browns Canyon is the place for you! Expect to get wet on this adventure as a member of our highly trained and certified staff guide you through this fun stretch of river. This 3+ hour trip offers incredibly scenic views of the Collegiate Peaks, an abundance of protected wildlife, and crystal clear Rocky Mountain white water. Between rapids, you’ll have time to relax and catch your breath as you get to know your guide and learn more about the majestic views all around you. Our half day trips leave our Buena Vista white water outpost at 9 am or 1:30 pm, check in 30 minutes prior. Highlights
  • Approximately 10 river miles
  • Raft through Browns Canyon National Monument
  • Rapids such as Pin Ball, Zoom Flume and Big Drop
  • Family intermediate white water rafting
  • $106
  • ~3.5 Hours
  • III & IV
The Numbers Half Day Rafting Trip

Numbers Half Day

The Numbers on the Arkansas River is one of the best sections of white water rafting in Colorado if you are looking for a fun, action packed, non-stop ride. This class IV intermediate to advanced rafting trip is great for experienced rafters or adventurous first timers. Participants should be in good physical condition and ready to paddle! The Numbers half day section has 7 major rapids, numbered off one through seven (real original names, I know) but that’s not all, there are plenty of other rapids in-between the major ones. This section is very continuous without much down time. Not only is this section exciting but it is beautiful too. There are many majestic views of the Collegiate Peaks and the Mosquito mountain range located just north of Buena Vista, Colorado. Trip times are at 10 am and 12:45 pm out of our Buena Vista outpost. We recommend participants to be 15 years old or older. Free wetsuit, splash top and river shoe rentals are included. We are sure to give you and your group the thrill of a lifetime with this rafting tour.
  • $115
  • ~3 Hours
  • IV
Family float half day rafting trip in Colorado through Browns Canyon on the Arkansas River.

Family Float Half Day

Raft through Browns Canyon National Monument on the Arkansas River. Our half day Browns Canyon rafting trip takes you down approximately 10 miles of the exciting and beautiful Arkansas River. This Colorado white water rafting trip is appropriate for most ages and abilities. There are plenty of fun class II-III+ rapids and majestic views of the beautiful granite canyon. Whether you’re a first time rafter, an experienced paddler or a family looking for some excitement, Browns Canyon is the place for you! Expect to get wet on this adventure as a member of our highly trained and certified staff guide you through this fun stretch of river. This 3+ hour trip offers incredibly scenic views of the Collegiate Peaks, an abundance of protected wildlife, and crystal clear Rocky Mountain white water. Between rapids, you’ll have time to relax and catch your breath as you get to know your guide and learn more about the majestic views all around you. Our half day trips leave our Buena Vista white water outpost at 9 am or 1:30 pm, check in 30 minutes prior. Highlights
  • Approximately 10 river miles
  • Raft through Browns Canyon National Monument
  • Rapids such as Pin Ball, Zoom Flume and Big Drop
  • Family intermediate white water rafting
  • $106
  • ~3.5 Hours
  • II
Private Full or Half Day Raft Trip - Browns Canyon Rafting

Private Full or Half Day Raft Trip

Enjoy a fully customizable private raft trip on the Arkansas River. This trip is exclusive to your group. We will create a custom trip with your own private shuttle, raft, guide… your own adventure! Choose which river section and what time you would like to raft. Browns Canyon National Monument (anytime between 9am and 3pm), The Numbers (any time between 9am and 2pm) or our Family Float (anytime between 9am and 3pm). This trip includes all rafting equipment, wetsuit packages and lunch on the full day. The listed price is for one raft with up to six guests. If your group is larger please let us know and we can give you a custom quote. Give us a call and we can create the best trip for you and your group! Highlights
  • Private Shuttle And Raft
  • Custom Trip Time
  • Free Wetsuit, Splash Top, And River Shoe Rentals
  • World-Class White Water
  • $995 - $1395
  • Half or Full Day
  • II – IV
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Denver Rafting FAQs

The best time for rafting in Denver, CO is typically from May through early September, when the spring snowmelt fills the rivers, creating ideal conditions for thrilling adventures. Water levels peak in early June, providing exciting rapids and stunning scenery. If you prefer milder conditions while still enjoying great rafting, July and August are perfect months. The Arkansas River continues to receive water releases until August 15th, maintaining a fun, medium flow. After that, the river shifts to its natural flow, offering a more relaxed experience on the water.

Just outside of Denver, the Arkansas River offers some of the best whitewater rafting in the region, renowned for its exciting rapids and breathtaking scenery. The river’s most famous stretch, Browns Canyon, lets you experience Class III rapids while floating through a stunning national monument. It’s the perfect mix of adrenaline and natural beauty, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced rafters. For those looking for a more intense challenge, The Numbers offers Class IV rapids and continuous whitewater, making for an exhilarating experience. Whether you choose the excitement of Browns Canyon or the thrill of The Numbers, both sections will provide unforgettable memories for anyone seeking adventure on the river.

Yes, there is a minimum age requirement for rafting near Denver, which can vary depending on the river section, water levels, and individual conditions. For the Family Float, we recommend a minimum age of 4 years old. For Browns Canyon, the minimum age is 7 years old, and for the more challenging The Numbers section, the minimum age is 14 years old. If your children are younger than the recommended ages for a specific section, please give us a call. We can discuss the current water conditions and suggest the best sections for your group.

We recommend wearing quick-drying clothing, water shoes or sandals with straps, sunscreen, and sunglasses with a strap for a comfortable day on the water. Synthetic or wool layers are perfect for sun protection and added warmth on cooler days, such as leggings and long-sleeve synthetic shirts. For early season trips, when the weather can be cooler, we provide wetsuits, splash tops (river rain jackets), and booties in various sizes to keep you warm. If you forgot something or want a keepsake, our retail shop has a wide range of essentials like sunscreen, sunglass straps, synthetic shirts, t-shirts, and more. Please avoid wearing cotton on the river, as it doesn’t dry quickly and can make you feel uncomfortable.

Yes, we offer beginner-friendly rafting trips, with sections featuring Class II and III rapids that deliver plenty of fun without being too intense—all within easy reach of Denver. If you’re looking for a trip with exciting Class III rapids and incredible scenery, Browns Canyon is a top pick. It strikes the perfect balance between thrill and beauty, making it ideal for first-timers and returning rafters alike. For families with kids under 7 or those wanting a more relaxed float, our Family Float is a great choice. You can simply sit back, take in the views, and enjoy a peaceful day on the water.

Trip prices vary depending on the length and section you choose. For specific rates, please call us or visit our website. Prices start at $106 per person. Planning a group of 10 or more? Be sure to reach out—we offer group discounts and would be happy to help you plan your trip.

Browns Canyon Rafting is located in Buena Vista, Colorado approximately a 2 hour drive from Denver.

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Have more questions?

For more details about our rafting trips near Denver, CO, reach out to our reservation office and chat with one of our expert team members. We’ll assist you in choosing the ideal river adventure for your group’s unforgettable journey.

Call Today To Book

(719) 275-2890

Have more questions?

For more details about our rafting trips near Denver, CO, reach out to our reservation office and chat with one of our expert team members. We’ll assist you in choosing the ideal river adventure for your group’s unforgettable journey.

Call Today To Book

(719) 275-2890