GENERAL WHITEWATER RAFTING INFORMATION:
Colorado Whitewater Rafting is a fun and safe activity for all ages and abilities. We pride ourselves on safety. While there is an inherent element of risk in all outdoor adventures, running rivers with our professional guides should not be considered dangerous. Our professionalism is unsurpassed and our safety procedures are second to none.
Prior whitewater rafting experience is not required. The majority of people who join our expeditions are first time rafters. You'll receive a detailed safety talk before getting on the river, and it will cover every aspect of your river adventure. Once trained, an oar or paddle crew can work in harmony with their guide to maneuver a raft in the most challenging rapids. It's only natural for you to be apprehensive about whitewater rafting, however our staff is specially trained to address your concerns and prepare you for an experience you'll never forget.
Knowing how to swim is recommended but it's not necessary. Everyone wears the very best Class V life jackets at all times while on the water and they float regardless of whether or not you do.
We welcome anyone, young or old, in reasonable physical condition.
Age requirements vary depending on the trip. Springtime whitewater trips may require older minimum age requirements as the level of difficulty increases. Persons who are extremely overweight, or have a chest size over 52" (life jacket maximum size) cannot participate in a trip. If you or a member of your group are pregnant or have special health or physical considerations, please call our office and consult a physician for recommendation.
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Beginner Class I-II
Easy. Fast-moving water with riffles and small waves. Suitable for anyone age 5 and older, including the physically challenged.
Our beginner rafting trips are class I-III
They include our Family Float Class I-II, Browns Canyon Class III, Bighorn Sheep Canyon Class III.
If it is your first time whitewater rafting but you are at least 16 years of age, in good physical condition and are of an adventurous spirit you may participate in our Class IV whitewater river rafting trips: The Numbers, The Royal Gorge. Previous experience whitewater rafting is recommended on our Class IV trips, but not required.
Intermediate Class III-IV
Rapids with moderate, irregular waves, which may be difficult to avoid. Large waves and strainers may be present, but are easily avoided. Injuries while swimming are rare. Suitable for those who do not mind getting a little wet. This level is recommended for first-time whitewater rafters as well as those with prior experience.
Our intermediate rafting trips are class III-IV
They include our Browns Canyon Class III, Bighorn Sheep Canyon Class III.
Advanced Class III-V
whitewater rafting includes intense, powerful but predictable rapids requiring precise boat handling in turbulent water. Depending on the character of the river, it may feature large, unavoidable waves and holes or constricted passages demanding fast maneuvers under pressure. Risk of injury to swimmers is moderate to high, and water conditions may make self-rescue difficult. Advanced whitewater rafting trips are suitable for those 16 and older in high water and those in good physical condition. With River Runners experienced guides, this level is recommended for first-timers as well as those with prior experience.
Expert Class V
Whitewater rafting with River Runners contains obstructed or violent rapids which expose any participants to above-average endangerment. Drops may contain large, unavoidable waves and holes or steep, congested chutes with complex, demanding routes. Rapids may continue for long distances between pools, demanding a high level of fitness. Swims are dangerous and self-rescue difficult. Suitable for those who are comfortable with water, able to swim and in good physical condition.
Depending on the water level, you may be required to take a practice river swim before the trip. Minimum age: 16 years. Previous Class IV whitewater rafting experience is required on our Pine Creek Rafting trip on the Arkansas River. Paddle Raft or Oar Raft You may choose to paddle or ride in an oar boat. Paddling is an exciting, participatory way to run the river. Each boat contains about 6 paddlers plus a guide to call commands. There is a thorough explanation and practice session for paddlers before we start out. The paddle option is available provided water conditions permit. On the oar boat, your guide does all of the work using oars. Oar boats offer the luxury of relaxing and taking in the scenery. |
