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Browns Canyon Rafting

Aspen
White Water Rafting

 aspen rafting trips
Welcome To Browns Canyon Rafting

Rafting Trips Near Aspen, CO

As a family- and guide-owned whitewater rafting company near Aspen, CO, Browns Canyon Rafting offers some of Colorado’s most thrilling and unforgettable rafting adventures. Whether you’re ready to tackle the heart-pounding rapids of The Numbers or unwind on a scenic float through Browns Canyon National Monument, we have trips for every skill level and adventure style. Join us for an exhilarating journey on Colorado’s pristine rivers, where breathtaking scenery and excitement await.

Call Today To Book

(719) 275-2890

white water rafting near aspen colorado
Browns Canyon Rafting Adventures

Most Popular Rafting Trips Near Aspen, CO

Browns Canyon Rafting provides exhilarating whitewater rafting and inflatable kayaking experiences for all, from beginners to adrenaline enthusiasts and everyone in between. Select from our half-day, full-day, and overnight trips, all easily accessible near Aspen, 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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Aspen Rafting FAQs

The best time for rafting in Aspen, CO is typically from May through early September, coinciding with the spring snowmelt that fills the rivers with ample water for thrilling adventures. Water levels usually peak in early June, offering exciting rapids and breathtaking scenery. If you prefer milder conditions with still enjoyable rafting, July and August are excellent months. The Arkansas River continues to receive water releases until August 15th, maintaining a fun, medium flow. After the 15th, the river transitions to its natural flow, offering a more relaxed experience.

Just outside of Aspen, the Arkansas River offers some of the best whitewater rafting in the area, known for its thrilling rapids and stunning landscapes. The river’s most famous section is Browns Canyon, where you can enjoy exhilarating Class III rapids while floating through a beautiful national monument. It’s a perfect blend of excitement and scenic beauty, ideal for both experienced rafters and beginners. For those seeking a more intense experience, The Numbers provides a thrilling challenge with Class IV rapids and continuous whitewater. Both sections are unforgettable and promise lasting memories for anyone looking for adventure on the river.

Yes, there is a minimum age requirement for rafting near Aspen, which can vary depending on the river section, water levels, and individual qualifications. For the Family Float section, we recommend 4 years old and up. For Browns Canyon, the recommended minimum age is 7 years old, and for The Numbers, the recommended minimum age is 14. If your children are below the recommended ages for each section, please give us a call, and we can discuss water levels and suggest the most appropriate sections for your group.

It’s recommended to wear quick-drying clothing, water shoes or sandals with straps, sunscreen, and sunglasses with a strap. Synthetic or wool layers are great for both sun protection and extra warmth on cooler days, such as leggings and long-sleeve synthetic shirts. For early season trips when the weather might be cooler, we offer wetsuits, splash tops (river rain jackets), and booties in various sizes. Our retail shop has everything you might have forgotten or could use as a souvenir to take home—sunscreen, sunglass straps, synthetic shirts, t-shirts, and more. Please avoid wearing cotton on the river whenever possible.

Yes, we offer rafting trips suitable for beginners, including sections with Class II and III rapids that provide a fun experience without being overly challenging, all within a reasonable distance from Aspen. If you’re looking for exciting Class III rapids that are fun but not too intense, We recommend Browns Canyon—it’s the perfect blend of thrilling rapids and stunning scenery. For families with children under 7 years old or those seeking a more relaxed experience, we recommend our Family Float, where you can sit back and simply enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Our trip prices vary based on the length and section you choose. Please call us or visit our website to find the specific price for your desired trip. Prices start at $106 per person. If you’re planning a group of 10 or more, please contact us to inquire about group discounts.

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

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Have more questions?

To learn more about our rafting trips near Aspen, CO, reach out to our reservation office and chat with one of our experienced team members. We’ll guide you in selecting the ideal river section for your group’s adventure.

Call Today To Book

(719) 275-2890

Have more questions?

To learn more about our rafting trips near Aspen, CO, reach out to our reservation office and chat with one of our experienced team members. We’ll guide you in selecting the ideal river section for your group’s adventure.

Call Today To Book

(719) 275-2890