Annual Flow Program goes from July 1 – August 15

One thing that makes the Upper Arkansas River in Colorado a great place to raft, kayak and stand-up paddleboard late into summer, is the Voluntary Flow Management Program, which augments flows from July 1 – August 15 each summer.

Agreement holders coordinate to move water from Twin Lakes Reservoir to Pueblo Reservoir during the summer rafting season. The target flow is 700 cubic feet per second (CFS) at the Wellsville Gauge – east of Salida, Colorado. Year-round, the VFMP helps manage flows to support the trout fishing industry. This program is the only one like it in the state of Colorado.

Groups involved include the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA), the Bureau of Reclamation, the Southeastern Colorado Water Conservancy District (SECWD) and the Pueblo Board of Water Works. It was originally initiated by the Arkansas Rivers Outfitters Association (AROA) and Trout Unlimited.

Raft, Kayak and SUP Board the Arkansas River in Colorado

The best whitewater flows on the Arkansas River will go through August 15, but don’t worry if you can’t make it to the Arkansas River by mid-August. Fall is still a great time to raft, kayak and SUP in Colorado. The Royal Gorge has the best whitewater during fall, but all other sections provide a quality river experience. Call 800-723-8987 or book online at whitewater.net.

Raft

Raft the Royal Gorge, Browns Canyon, Bighorn Sheep Canyon and other classic whitewater sections of the Arkansas River now through September.

Inflatable Kayak

Inflatable Kayak tours depart from River Runners at Browns Canyon, just south of Buena Vista, Colorado.

Stand-up Paddleboard

Stand-up Paddleboard Tours are a great way to take your river or SUP experience to the next level.

Book online and save

  • Book any date now through September
  • Promo code: Online10
  • Questions? Call 800-723-8987