Spring Sale: 15% Off All Trips. Use Code Spring At Checkout
Spring Sale: 15% Off All Trips. Use Code Spring At Checkout
The Arkansas River is the most popular whitewater rafting river in Colorado. Its central location, stunning scenery, and abundant whitewater have attracted thrill-seekers worldwide for more than 50 years. If you are new to whitewater rafting, check out our tips for taking your first tour.
This seems obvious advice to some, but it is worth mentioning as tubing, SUP boarding, and kayaking continue to grow in popularity. While many expert private river runners are out there, most will want to hire a professional river outfitter to facilitate their whitewater experience. Raft guides are on the river daily and know how to avoid hazards. Plus, rafting companies have the latest equipment to help keep you safe.
Flows are high, and thrill-seekers are salivating, but there are still plenty of beginner options for those looking for a milder whitewater experience. The Family Float (class II), Salida Town Run (class II-III), Bighorn Sheep Canyon (class III), and Browns Canyon (class III-IV) are all great beginner whitewater rafting trips in Colorado.
The Royal Gorge and the Numbers are closed to rafting during extreme high water, but Bighorn Sheep Canyon (class III-IV) and the Narrows (class IV) offer world-class whitewater at high flows.
The air temperatures are warming up, but the river water is still cold. You should plan to wear quick-dry clothing like fleece, poly-pro, and board shorts, plus secure footwear like strapped sandals or an old pair of tennis shoes. Wetsuits, neoprene booties, and splash jackets are available to rent. Cotton, flip-flops, and Crocs are not appropriate. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and personal drinking water are also recommended.
Book a full-day whitewater rafting trip with River Runners.
River Runners offers guided whitewater rafting trips from two locations on the Arkansas River. Raft beginner, intermediate, and advanced whitewater on half-day, full-day, and overnight adventures. Call 800-723-8987 or book online.
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