Do we go rafting if it is raining?

The weather in the Colorado Rocky Mountains is very unpredictable and varies from mile to mile and minute to minute. Colorado averages over 300 days of sunshine a year. The odds are, the weather will be good. We run our Colorado whitewater rafting trips in all weather conditions and have gear available to help keep you comfortable, even in the worst conditions. Wet suits, booties and splash tops can really make a big difference and make your trip a pleasurable one. Don’t forget, you’re going to get wet rafting, even on the sunniest of days. Weather is not a cause for cancellation.

Do you need to know how to swim?

No, except on advanced and expert trips. Each person will be fitted with a Type-V Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (life jacket) to be worn while on the river at all times. This life jacket is designed to float the wearer on his/her back with his/her head out of the water. Guests are instructed on the proper use of this life jacket in an orientation talk before departure. It does help to have some knowledge of swimming, especially in some of the more aggressive sections.

How do I find you?

We have four different meeting places and four offices we call basecamps, where we’ll meet, get you checked in and geared up, and introduce you to your guide. We’ll let you know where to meet us and provide directions to the right basecamp. Then we take care of everything else, including transportation between the river and the basecamp. Check the map on this page for blue dots and click for directions, or call our office regarding directions to your meeting place. We will be happy to mail, e-mail or fax you directions, along with your confirmation letter.

How safe is it?

All our guides go through extensive river training, basic first aid, CPR, and are certified by the state of Colorado. While anyone can fall out of the boat at any time, keep in mind that your chances of falling out of the raft do increase when rafting in a paddle boat and on more challenging sections of river.

Rafting is an adventure sport and involves a degree of risk on the part of the participant. Although we take precautions to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip, we cannot be responsible for lost or damaged articles and/or personal injury. We require you to acknowledge these risks by reading and signing a liability release prior to departure. All children under the age of 18 must have signed release form from a parent or guardian. It is important for the group to choose a trip within their entire group’s limits. Read our Customer Responsibility Policy for more information.

What about the altitude?

Altitude sickness can be a problem, especially for people coming to the mountains from sea level. To prevent altitude sickness, stay hydrated, drink lots of liquids and stay away from alcohol and caffeine. Altitude sickness can be serious. You may experience an upset stomach, headaches, dizziness or shortness of breath — please inform your guide so they are aware of your symptoms and can begin treatment.

Download Altitude Sickness Information- altitude.pdf

What about tipping your guide?

Our guides make a base wage similar to a bartender or wait person. General guidelines for tipping would be the same as for a bartender or a waitperson (15-20%). Please do not feel obligated to tip, but if you do believe in tipping, it is a nice way to express your appreciation, and only if you feel you had a safe, fun and informative experience. If you did not have a pleasurable and adequate experience, we would appreciate it if you would please bring it to the attention of our management. Feedback and letters from our guests are greatly appreciated and helps us maintain a high standard of service. Click this Contact us link to find out how to conveniently provide feedback.

What do we bring on an overnight trip?

Clothing:

• Rain suit/windbreaker
• Socks (wool or fleece)
• Footwear (shoes for hiking)
• Shirts (short sleeve and sweatshirt)
• Pants (shorts, jeans or sweatpants)

 

Personal Items:

• Sunscreen
• Lip Balm
• Insect repellant
• Facial/body wipes
• Toiletries

 

Camping Gear:

• Sleeping bag
• Tent
• Pillow/sleeping pad
• Flash light

What kind of food is served on full day trips?

We don’t just serve you a soggy sandwich; we serve you a hot BBQ steak lunch prepared by our guides on the banks of the river. You’ll love our top sirloin steak lunch with all the trimmings. We realize that not everyone likes steak, so there are chicken and vegetarian options available. Special meals can be arranged with advanced notice. Read more about full-day trips on the Arkansas River and Clear Creek.

What should we bring to wear?

You are going to get wet, so it’s a good idea to be prepared. Avoid cotton clothing, as it tends to get wet and stay wet. Bathing suits and shorts are recommended. Your best bet is loose, woven materials such as wool, polypro, fleece, micro fleece, polyester, waterproof jackets and any other outdoor material that dries fast. Staying dry, or at least drying off fast, is the key to staying warm. Towels don’t do you much good because there is no way to keep them dry. There is limited space on the rafts, so you should limit what you bring to what you can wear. We have wet suits, booties, and splash tops available for rent. This equipment is designed to keep you warm and comfortable. Click the links to learn more about what to bring rafting and rafting rentals.

When is the best time of the year to go rafting?

This depends on what you’re interested in. If big, exciting water is what your group is looking for, then high-water season is the best time. Early to mid-June is traditionally high-water season. When rivers run at their peak, it can make for a big ride. Keep in mind some sections may close due to high water conditions. Most people enjoy normal run off-season, which is mid-June to late August. The water stays consistent and the days tend to be sunny and warm with the occasional afternoon rain shower. Water levels and weather are very unpredictable, so book a date that best suits the group and be prepared for the unexpected. There really is no bad time to go white water rafting in Colorado.