Family Float Beginner Rafting Trip

Splash, laugh, and create lasting memories on this gentle family-friendly river adventure!

Trip Overview

Duration:

1.5 hours

Rapids:

Beginner - Class II*

Age Restriction:

3+ (min weight 35 LBS)*

Departure:

11am & 2pm from River Runners Browns Canyon

Location:

Buena Vista, Colorado

Pricing:

$67 per person

Check Availability

Trip Overview

Duration:

1.5 hours

Rapids:

Beginner - Class II*

Age Restriction:

3+ (min weight 35 LBS)*

Departure:

11am & 2pm from River Runners Browns Canyon

Location:

Buena Vista, Colorado

Pricing:

$67 per person

Check Availability

Family Float - Relaxed Rapids and Scenic River Fun for the Whole Family

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.

Your Day on the River:
Step-by-Step

Helpful Info

Trip Photos

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.

What to Wear & Bring

Essential Items:

Athletic moisture wicking clothing
Swimsuit
Secure footwear (water shoes with a back strap or old tennis shoes)
Sunglasses with retainers
Sunscreen
Water Bottle
Hat
Light jacket or fleece (if forecast calls for colder weather)

Do Not Bring:

Valuables or electronics (secure in vehicle or with our check-in staff)
Flip-flops or sandals

What We Provide:

Wetsuits
Splash jackets
Helmets
Neoprene river boots

Pro Tips:

When applying sunscreen, avoid putting it directly on your forehead. Your helmet will keep this area shaded, and water splashes can cause sunscreen to drip into your eyes, causing irritation. Instead, focus sunscreen on your face below the helmet line, and consider wearing sunglasses for added eye protection.
River conditions can change quickly. Wearing quick-drying clothing in layers allows you to easily adapt if you’re chilly or warm up throughout the day.
Keep an extra set of clothes and a towel in your vehicle. It’s always nice to have something dry to change into after your river adventure.

Weather & Season

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 & Waivers

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.

Cancellation Policy

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.

See the Family Float in Action

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Hear From Our Happy
Adventurers

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Family Float rafting trip suitable for first-time rafters?

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.

How physically demanding is this trip?

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.

What’s included in the price of the Family Float full-day trip?

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.

Are meals provided on the Family Float rafting trip?

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.

Is rafting safe for children and teenagers?

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.

What wildlife or scenic highlights might we see during the trip?

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.

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Family Float Beginner Rafting Trip

Trip Overview

Duration:

Rapids:

Age Restriction:

Departure:

Location:

Pricing:

Trip Overview

Duration:

Rapids:

Age Restriction:

Departure:

Location:

Pricing:

Family Float - Relaxed Rapids and Scenic River Fun for the Whole Family

Your Day on the River: Step-by-Step

Helpful Info

See the Family Float in Action

Hear From Our HappyAdventurers

Frequently Asked Questions

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