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Browns Canyon Rafting

Buena Vista
White Water Rafting

 buena vista co rafting
Welcome To Browns Canyon Rafting

Rafting Trips Near Buena Vista, CO

Browns Canyon Rafting, a family- and guide-owned whitewater rafting company near Buena Vista, CO, offers some of Colorado’s most exhilarating and unforgettable river adventures. Whether you’re looking to conquer the adrenaline-filled rapids of The Numbers or enjoy a peaceful float through the stunning Browns Canyon National Monument, we have the perfect trip for every adventurer and skill level. Experience the excitement of Colorado’s pristine rivers and create lasting memories!

Call Today To Book

(719) 275-2890

white water rafting near buena vista colorado
Browns Canyon Rafting Adventures

Most Popular Rafting Trips Near Buena Vista, CO

At Browns Canyon Rafting, we provide an unforgettable adventure for all skill levels, offering exhilarating whitewater rafting and inflatable kayaking experiences. Whether you’re a beginner or an adrenaline enthusiast, explore our variety of half-day, full-day, and overnight trips, all conveniently located near Buena Vista, 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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Buena Vista Rafting FAQs

The prime rafting season in Buena Vista runs from May to early September. High water levels from snowmelt peak in June, creating fast, exciting rapids. July and early August bring warm weather and consistent flows, ideal for most rafters. After August 15, when dam releases stop, the river shifts to a gentler natural flow—perfect for a more laid-back experience.

Just outside of Buena Vista, 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 are minimum age requirements for rafting near Buena Vista, which depend on the river section, current water levels, and individual qualifications. For our Family Float , we recommend ages 4 and up. Browns Canyon is ideal for kids 7 and older, offering a fun and scenic Class III adventure. For more advanced rafters, The Numbers section has a minimum age recommendation of 14 yr old due to its intense Class IV rapids. If you have younger children or aren’t sure which trip is best, feel free to call us—we’re happy to go over current river conditions and help you choose the right option for your group.

For your rafting trip, we suggest wearing quick-drying clothes, water shoes or strapped sandals, sunscreen, and sunglasses with a retainer strap. On cooler days, synthetic or wool layers—like leggings and long-sleeve performance shirts—work well for both warmth and sun protection. During early season trips when it’s chilly, we provide wetsuits, splash tops (like waterproof jackets), and booties in a range of sizes. If you forget anything or want a keepsake, our retail shop has you covered with sunscreen, sunglass straps, moisture-wicking shirts, t-shirts, and more. Try to avoid cotton clothing, as it stays wet and can make you cold on the river.

Absolutely! We offer beginner-friendly rafting trips near Buena Vista, with options featuring Class II and III rapids that are exciting without being overwhelming. One of the most popular sections for first-timers is Browns Canyon—a scenic stretch of river with fun, splashy Class III rapids surrounded by stunning canyon views. It’s a great mix of adventure and natural beauty. Traveling with younger kids or just want a more laid-back float? Our Family Float is a great choice for those with children under 7 or anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing ride while taking in the scenery.

Trip pricing depends on the section of the river and the duration you choose. Rates start at $106 per person. For exact pricing details, feel free to give us a call or check out our website. Planning a group outing with 10 or more people? Reach out to us directly—we’re happy to talk about available group discounts!

Have more questions?

For more details on our rafting trips near Buena Vista, CO, reach out to our reservation office and chat with one of our knowledgeable team members. We’ll assist you in choosing the ideal river adventure for your group’s perfect getaway.

Call Today To Book

(719) 275-2890

Have more questions?

For more details on our rafting trips near Buena Vista, CO, reach out to our reservation office and chat with one of our knowledgeable team members. We’ll assist you in choosing the ideal river adventure for your group’s perfect getaway.

Call Today To Book

(719) 275-2890