Raft the Upper Arkansas River now through Labor Day
Colorado is known for having some of the best whitewater in the world, but what river in Colorado has the best whitewater rafting? If you consider things like miles of whitewater, accessibility, natural beauty, and range of difficulty – Colorado’s Arkansas River is a clear front-runner.
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River trips for nearly all ages and abilities
The Upper Arkansas River welcomes all skill levels to whitewater rafting. You can get your feet wet on the Family Float or get your adrenaline fix rafting the Royal Gorge or the Numbers. Browns Canyon National Monument – offers family-friendly rapids like Pinball, Zoom Flume, and the Toilet Bowl, while Bighorn Sheep Canyon has splashy class III rapids and stunning scenery.
150 Miles of whitewater
The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA) manages 150 miles of the Arkansas River starting near Leadville, Colorado. The river flows southeast through the river towns of Buena Vista, Salida, and Cañon City, all the way to Pueblo Reservoir.
Choosing the Best Whitewater Rafting Trip in Colorado
Age Limits and Difficulty
Intermediate class III-IV rapids are popular with families and first-time rafters, but some people will have more fun challenging class IV and class V rapids. Either way, choosing the appropriate difficulty will help ensure a positive experience on the river.
General guidelines for age and weight restrictions on the Arkansas River:
Class II Rafting Trips (Family Float)
Minimum Requirements: 3 years old and 35 pounds.
Class III-IV Rafting Trips (Browns Canyon or Bighorn Sheep Canyon)
Minimum Requirements: 6 years old and 50 pounds.
Class IV-V Rafting Trips (Royal Gorge or The Numbers)
Minimum Requirements: 14 years old (varies with water conditions)
When is the best time to go whitewater rafting in Colorado?
Are you looking for high water, medium water or low water? What does your schedule look like? Learn how to choose the best time to go whitewater rafting in Colorado.
Where are you going to be staying in Colorado?
Are you staying in Colorado Springs or Denver? Rafting in the Royal Gorge Region may work best for your logistics. Are you staying in Summit County or don’t mind the extra hour drive? Check out rafting near Buena Vista Colorado.