Quick Info
Peak season: May through August. Best rivers: Arkansas (Browns Canyon, Royal Gorge), Colorado (Shoshone), Clear Creek, Cache la Poudre. Levels: Class II family floats to Class IV+ adventure. Book ahead: Popular dates fill weeks in advance.
Colorado's rivers run with Rocky Mountain snowmelt, creating some of the best whitewater rafting in the country. From gentle family floats to adrenaline-pumping Class IV+ rapids, there's a river experience for everyone from first-timers to seasoned thrill-seekers.
Peak season runs May through August, with highest water typically in late May and June. The Arkansas River near Buena Vista and Salida is Colorado's most popular rafting destination, offering everything from calm Browns Canyon floats to the intense Royal Gorge. No experience is necessary for most trips - guides handle the navigation while you paddle and enjoy the ride.
Arkansas River
Colorado's #1 rafting destination runs through the heart of the Rockies. Browns Canyon National Monument offers Class III rapids perfect for families and first-timers - exciting enough to be memorable, tame enough to feel safe. The Numbers section ramps up to Class IV with technical boulder gardens. The Royal Gorge delivers Class IV+ intensity beneath 1,000-foot canyon walls.
The towns of Buena Vista and Salida are rafting hubs, with dozens of outfitters competing for business. Half-day trips are most popular, but full-day and multi-day expeditions explore more remote stretches.
Other Top Rivers
Colorado River near Glenwood Springs offers the Shoshone section - Class III excitement with easy access and stunning Glenwood Canyon scenery. It's a great option for visitors already in the Aspen/Glenwood area.
Clear Creek provides the closest rafting to Denver, just 45 minutes west in Idaho Springs. Class III-IV whitewater makes for exciting day trips from the city. Perfect when you don't have time for the longer drive to the Arkansas.
Cache la Poudre near Fort Collins is Colorado's only Wild and Scenic River. Class II-IV sections run through beautiful Poudre Canyon - less crowded than the Arkansas, with a more wilderness feel.
Planning Your Trip
Late May through June brings highest water and biggest rapids - this is when serious rafters come. July and August offer warmer temperatures and more family-friendly conditions as water levels drop. Book popular dates weeks ahead, especially weekends.
Wear a swimsuit and water shoes - you will get wet. Outfitters provide helmets, life jackets, and wetsuits when water is cold. Most trips include basic paddling instruction before launching.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can kids raft?
Family trips typically allow ages 6+. More intense rapids require older teens or adults. Check with your outfitter for specific age and weight requirements.
Do I need experience?
No - guides do the work. You'll paddle on command, but no prior rafting experience is necessary for most trips. The guide controls the boat.
How long are trips?
Half-day trips (2-4 hours on water) are most common. Full-day trips include lunch and cover more river. Multi-day camping trips explore remote sections.
What if I fall out?
It happens - especially on bigger rapids. Your life jacket keeps you afloat. Guides are trained in swift-water rescue. Listen to the safety briefing.