Spring Sale: 15% Off All Trips. Use Code Spring At Checkout
Spring Sale: 15% Off All Trips. Use Code Spring At Checkout
An hour on the Arkansas with the family. Easy Class I water, mountain views, and lunch at The Beach when you’re done.
1hr On The River (2hrs Total)
Class I (II-)
12+
River Runners Browns Canyon
Buena Vista, Colorado
$60 Per Person
1hr On The River (2hrs Total)
Class I (II-)
12+
River Runners Browns Canyon
Buena Vista, Colorado
$60 Per Person
The Badfish Dingy River Tour is built for families who want time on the water without committing to a full whitewater day. You’ll grab a paddle, hop in your own Badfish Dingy, and float a 2-mile stretch of Class I (II-) water on the Arkansas River, just outside Buena Vista, with an expert guide leading the way. Keep an eye out for deer, waterfowl, and birds along the banks as you float through the mountain scenery.
Every trip launches in pods of 10, with a lead guide and a sweep guide on each pod, so you’re never far from a helping hand. There’s a ferry across the river, a stop in clear water for a quick dip, and an easy paddle back to River Runners. When you finish, The Beach Restaurant and Bar is right there on the water’s edge. Kids can play in the sand while the adults relax with a well-earned lunch and a cold drink.
Essential Items:
For the Weather:
Do Not Bring:
What We Provide:
Pro Tips:
Rafting Season:
The Badfish Dingy River Tour departs daily from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Departure times are 9:00 am, 11:30 am, and 2:00 pm.
On the Arkansas River, prime rafting season generally runs from mid-May through Labor Day (early September). In early season, snowmelt causes rivers to rise. You’ll encounter high water with fast and exhilarating rapids, especially from late May to mid-June. From late June through July, flows settle to ideal rafting levels with plenty of action and the most popular trips running, plus full summer weather. From August into early September and Labor Day, water levels decline slowly, resulting in scenic floats with smaller rapids.
Trips Run Rain or Shine:
At River Runners, we raft in all weather. Rafting is naturally a wet activity, and a little rain won’t stop the adventure. Trips depart as scheduled, rain or shine, unless conditions are deemed unsafe by our experienced guides. Rainy days often mean fewer crowds and more thrilling rapids. Dress for the weather and prepare to get wet. You’re in for an unforgettable experience regardless of the forecast.
Alternate Routes:
Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities. Occasionally, we may need to adjust trip plans due to changing river conditions like low or high water. If this happens, we’ll make every effort to keep you informed, but please note that changes may occur without prior notice.
Safety First:
At River Runners, your safety is our top priority. Every rafting trip is guided by experienced professionals trained in river safety, CPR, and first aid. We provide thorough safety briefings, quality equipment including Coast Guard-approved Type V personal flotation devices (PFDs), and ongoing supervision to ensure your experience is not only exciting but secure. We’re committed to creating an enjoyable, memorable rafting adventure while keeping everyone safe.
Swimming Ability:
Our Family Float trips are designed with everyone in mind, so strong swimming skills aren’t required. We do recommend that guests feel comfortable in water and wearing a life jacket. This gentle river section is ideal for families, beginners, and those simply looking to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Waivers:
Before hitting the river, all guests age 18 and older are required to sign our liability waiver. This standard procedure helps ensure everyone is informed about the nature of rafting activities and any associated risks. Guests under 18 must have a waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian.
Receive a full refund if you cancel your reservation at least 48 hours ahead of your scheduled float. If cancellations occur within 48 hours, you’ll receive a rain check minus a $10 per-person fee.
Watch what a day on the Arkansas with the family actually looks like: paddle, swim stop, and lunch at The Beach.
Yes, that’s exactly what it’s designed for. The water is Class I (II-), the minimum age is 12, and every trip launches in pods of 10 with a lead guide and a sweep guide so you’re never far from help. Up to 24 guests can head out at the same time, which makes it a strong fit for larger families and groups.
Shuttle, Badfish Dingy, paddle, PFD, helmet, wetsuit, splash jacket, and neoprene boots.
Plan for about 2 hours total. That includes gearing up, the short two-mile shuttle to the put-in, safety and paddling instructions, and roughly 1 hour on the river.
Daily from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, with departures at 9:00 am, 11:30 am, and 2:00 pm. Check-in is 45 minutes before your scheduled trip time.
You’ll meet at River Runners near Buena Vista, Colorado. The trip ends at The Beach Restaurant and Bar, right on the river at the same property, so kids can play in the sand while the adults relax with lunch and a drink.
Often. Keep an eye out for deer, waterfowl, and birds along the banks. Sightings depend on the day, but the river corridor is active.
