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Browns Canyon Rafting

Fort Collins
White Water Rafting

Q: When is the best time to go rafting in Fort Collins?

The best time for rafting in Fort Collins is from May to early September . Snowmelt causes water levels to peak in June , creating fast and thrilling rapids. July and early Augus t offer warm weather and steady flows, making it ideal for most rafters . , When dam releases end after August 15 , the river transitions to a calmer, natural flow, providing a more relaxed rafting experience.

Q: What is the best whitewater rafting near Fort Collins?

Not far from Fort Collins, the Arkansas River is renowned for offering some of the best whitewater rafting in the area, with exciting rapids and breathtaking scenery. The river’s most popular section, Browns Canyon , features exhilarating Class III rapids while winding through a stunning national monument . For those seeking a more challenging ride, The Numbers offers an intense experience with Class IV rapids and continuous whitewater. Both sections promise unforgettable adventures and lasting memories for anyone looking to experience the thrill of the river.

Q: What should I wear and bring for a rafting trip near Fort Collins?

For your rafting trip, we recommend wearing quick-drying clothing , water shoes or sandals with straps, sunscreen, and sunglasses with a retainer strap. On cooler days, synthetic or wool layers—such as leggings and long-sleeve performance shirts —are great for warmth and sun protection. For early-season trips when temperatures are lower, we provide wetsuits, splash tops (waterproof jackets), and booties in various sizes. If you forget anything or want a souvenir, our retail shop offers sunscreen, sunglass straps, moisture-wicking shirts, t-shirts, and more. Please avoid cotton clothing , as it holds moisture and can leave you feeling cold on the river.

Q: How much does it cost to go rafting near Fort Collins?

Trip pricing varies based on the river section and the length of the trip. Prices start at $106 per person. For more specific pricing information, don’t hesitate to give us a call or visit our website . Planning a group outing of 10 or more? Contact us directly—we’d be happy to discuss available group discounts !

Welcome To Browns Canyon Rafting

Rafting Trips Near Fort Collins, CO

Browns Canyon Rafting, a family- and guide-owned whitewater rafting company near Fort Collins, CO, welcomes you to experience unforgettable river adventures. Whether you’re chasing the excitement of Clear Creek’s rapids, tackling the intense challenges of The Numbers, or relaxing on a scenic float through Browns Canyon National Monument, we have the perfect trip for you. Discover Colorado’s breathtaking landscapes and create lasting memories on its pristine rivers!

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(719) 275-2890

Browns Canyon Rafting Adventures

Most Popular Rafting Trips Near Fort Collins, CO

At Browns Canyon Rafting, we offer unforgettable river adventures for all, from beginners to thrill-seekers. Feel the excitement of Clear Creek whitewater rafting and inflatable kayaking with our half-day, full-day, and overnight trips, all conveniently located near Fort Collins, CO.

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

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

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

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

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