Family Vacation Ideas in Colorado Rafting, Hot Springs & Outdoor Fun

Colorado is a popular family vacation destination year-round, but these hidden gems are best known for summer adventures. Check out this list of family vacation ideas near Buena Vista, Salida, and Cañon City before you plan your trip to Colorado this summer.

1. Whitewater Rafting

Colorado’s Arkansas River offers some of the best whitewater in the country. Rafting locations at Browns Canyon National Monument and the Royal Gorge make for great day trips from Colorado Springs, Denver, and Summit County. Be sure to book in advance with a professional river outfitter like River Runners.

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2. Hot Springs

Central Colorado is known for hot springs and cool adventures. Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort, Cottonwood Hot Springs, and Salida Hot Springs are all within a scenic drive from just about any Colorado vacation destination.

3. Zip Line Tours

Not all zip line tours are equal, and Captain Zipline near Salida, Colorado, is hard to beat. Package your Colorado rafting trip with a half-day zip line tour or challenge one of Colorado’s first and largest aerial adventure parks.

3. Royal Gorge Bridge and Park

The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is bigger and better than ever – just two years after a devastating fire nearly destroyed the historic Colorado attraction. The highest suspension bridge in North America still stands, but the zip line across the Royal Gorge, the Royal Rush Sky Coaster, and gondolas from rim to rim will test your nerves.

4. Royal Gorge Route Railroad

Take a trip back in time through one of Colorado’s deepest canyons. Grand geology and intriguing human history are just part of the experience on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad. Raft and rail packages can be booked through River Runners.

5. Trail Rides

A Colorado trail ride on horseback is the original mountain adventure. Half-day, all-day, and sunset tours will capture the imagination of kids and adults. Book a paddle and saddle package through River Runners.

Other ideas?

Do you have family vacation ideas in Colorado? Let us know in the comments.