Spring Sale: 15% Off All Trips. Use Code Spring At Checkout
Spring Sale: 15% Off All Trips. Use Code Spring At Checkout
Splash, laugh, and create lasting memories on this gentle family-friendly river adventure!
1.5 hours
Beginner - Class II*
3+ (min weight 35 LBS)*
11am & 2pm from River Runners Browns Canyon
Buena Vista, Colorado
$67 per person
1.5 hours
Beginner - Class II*
3+ (min weight 35 LBS)*
11am & 2pm from River Runners Browns Canyon
Buena Vista, Colorado
$67 per person
Our Family Float trip on the “Milk Run” section of the Arkansas River is the ideal introduction to rafting—perfect for young families, grandparents, or anyone seeking a mellow yet memorable Colorado river experience. Enjoy calm waters with gentle class I–II rapids, set against sweeping mountain views, lush alpine meadows, and peaceful cottonwood groves. The “Milk Run” is a laid-back stretch of river that offers a peaceful nature tour with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife like herons, ducks, eagles, and deer. This fun four-mile float ensures smiles, laughter, and cherished family moments you’ll talk about long after you return home.
ake your adventure unforgettable with professionally captured photos from Arkansas Valley Digital Imaging. Their skilled photographers specialize in action-packed imagery, capturing 10-15 photos from the splashiest section of the tour. Images can be purchased individually after your trip.
Essential Items:
Do Not Bring:
What We Provide:
Pro Tips:
Rafting Season:
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—fast and exhilarating rapids—especially in late May to mid-June. From late June through July flows settle to ideal rafting levels—plenty of action with the most popular trips running, and full summer weather. In August to early September/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. In fact, 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:
At River Runners, your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities! Occasionally, we might 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. However, 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 at least 48 hours before your original reservation date. A rain check, minus $10 per person, will be issued for cancellations made with less than a 48-hour notice.
Explore the thrill and beauty of the Royal Gorge rafting experience.
Absolutely! The Family Float is specifically designed with first-time rafters, young children, and families in mind. Featuring mild class II rapids, this gentle section of the river ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience even for those who’ve never rafted before. Our friendly, professional guides provide clear instruction, ensuring everyone feels safe, confident, and ready for fun on the river.
The Family Float is our easiest and most relaxed rafting option, designed specifically for families and beginners. You’ll enjoy gentle paddling through mild class II rapids, with plenty of calm stretches to relax and take in the scenery. No previous rafting experience or advanced fitness level is required, making this trip perfect for guests of all ages, from young children (ages 3+) to grandparents.
Your rafting package includes professional river guides, all necessary rafting equipment (rafts, paddles, helmets, PFDs, wetsuits if needed), shuttle transportation from our Brown’s Canyon Outpost. We do not charge additional fees for standard equipment rental.
No, meals are not included on the Family Float trip. Since this trip is shorter and designed for quick, easy fun on the river, we recommend planning meals either before or after your rafting adventure.
Yes! Our Family Float trip is specifically designed to be safe, gentle, and enjoyable for young adventurers (ages 3+) and teens alike. Guided by highly trained, Swiftwater Rescue-certified guides, this trip navigates mild class II rapids, ensuring a comfortable experience for first-time rafters and children. Safety briefings, child-sized gear, and attentive guides further enhance the security and enjoyment of your family’s rafting adventure.
For a more adventurous trip, we recommend trying one of our Browns Canyon Whitewater Rafting Trips.
On the Family Float trip, you’ll experience gentle, picturesque scenery perfect for relaxing and soaking up nature’s beauty. Float past lush riverbanks, open meadows, and cottonwood-lined shores, all framed by stunning mountain views. Keep your eyes open for wildlife along the way, including mule deer, ducks, geese, great blue herons, hawks, and occasionally even bald eagles soaring overhead—making your adventure even more memorable.
