White Water Rafting Colorado
As Spring settles in each year, the snow that has collected high in the Rocky Mountains starts to melt and fill up Colorado’s waterways. Fast-flowing water cascades down the rivers and over the rocks, leaving excellent conditions for thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts to raft down the rapids. You may be surprised to learn that some of the best whitewater rafting in Colorado isn’t all that far from Denver. In fact, our base camp, located in Idaho Springs, is where some of our rafting adventures begin! The scenic 35-minute drive from Denver allows guests to check out some of the best whitewater rafting adventures in the state without devoting several hours driving in the car. Rafters of any experience level can enjoy some of the best river rafting trips in Colorado with the Colorado Adventure Center.
Best Rivers to Raft in Colorado
Colorado is home to some of America’s most beautiful rivers and some of the best whitewater rafting anywhere in the country. At the Colorado Adventure Center we help beginners and experts alike find an amazing rafting trip. Some of the best rivers to raft in Colorado are Clear Creek, the Colorado River, and the Arkansas River, among others.
- Due to its variety of difficulty levels, scenic canyon views, and convenient proximity to Denver, Clear Creek is one of the front runners for the best whitewater rafting in Colorado. Every year more and more travelers and locals alike come to Clear Creek to experience whitewater rafting at its best.
- The Colorado River is one of the nation’s most iconic rivers. Starting high in the Colorado Rockies, and eventually flowing through the Grand Canyon, the Colorado River is one of the most wonderful and exciting ways to experience this mighty river.
- The Arkansas River is a beautiful place to experience whitewater rafting. An excellent experience for beginners, rafting on the Arkansas River is the most popular whitewater experience in the nation.
No matter where in Colorado your whitewater rafting experience takes you, we promise you’ll love the journey!
Experience the Beautiful State of Colorado
No matter where in Colorado you’re looking to experience whitewater rafting, Colorado Adventure Center is here for you! We offer some of the best rafting trips in Colorado in amazing locations across the state, like:
When is Whitewater Rafting Season in Colorado?
You may be wondering, when is the best time of year to go whitewater rafting in Colorado? Due to most whitewater coming directly from snow melt, the peak season for rafting in Colorado is mid-May through mid-August. That being said, whitewater rafting season can run through October, depending on water levels and paddlers’ willingness to brave colder temperatures. Hitting the river in peak season while the weather is warm and the water is flowing is a big factor in having a great whitewater experience in Colorado, especially for beginners, families, and mixed groups.
Whether you’re looking for gnarly Class V whitewater or mellower runs, Colorado has it all. Best of all, it’s ultra-accessible from the Front Range.
What Whitewater Rafting Trip is Right for You?
Colorado Adventure Center offers some of the best river rafting trips in Colorado for beginners, experts, and everyone in between. Whatever whitewater rafting experience you’re looking for, our expert guides will help you enjoy your journey down Colorado’s beautiful rivers.
Best White Water Rafting in Colorado for Beginners
Your group’s whitewater experience, ability, and minimum age are important factors to consider when picking a rafting trip in Colorado. Beginner whitewater rafting trips with Class I, Class II, and Class III rapids are a great choice for guests with minimal experience. Beginner to advanced rafting trips offered on Clear Creek allow first-timers and thrill seekers alike to get their kicks on this iconic stretch of Colorado whitewater. Choosing the appropriate level of whitewater rafting for your group is an important first step in having a positive experience.
Top Whitewater Rafting for Experienced Rafters
Paddlers with more experience and after some adrenaline should consider intermediate river sections with Class III to Class IV rapids. These river sections will have more technical rapids with bigger drops and waves. There are several advanced rafting sections in Colorado where you will encounter Class V rapids. These sections are for experienced paddlers that are in good physical condition. However, be advised that rapid classifications and difficulty of river sections will fluctuate due to water levels.
Best White Water Rafting in Colorado for Families
For groups with families or smaller children, our beginner whitewater rafting trips are a great choice. The minimum age for our beginner trip is 7 years old. All guests are required to sign a liability release form to participate in whitewater rafting. Minors must have a liability release form signed by a parent or guardian. Our guides go through extensive river training, basic first aid, and CPR, and are certified by the state of Colorado too! Rest assured, you can relax and enjoy your trip down one of Colorado’s scenic rivers. If whitewater rafting isn’t your family’s thing, check out some of our other excellent family adventures!
Whitewater Rafting in Colorado
Experience Colorado’s top-rated rafting trips for yourself. From breathtaking rapids to jaw-dropping scenery, we offer the best river rafting trips in Colorado. Book online or call 877-ZIP-RAFT to reserve your spot on a Colorado Adventure Center rafting trip!