Home » Trips » Happy Hour Intermediate Whitewater Rafting Trip

Happy Hour Intermediate Whitewater Rafting Trip

Name: Happy Hour at River Runners
Start: 2026-05-19T16:00:00-06:00
End: 2026-05-19T19:00:00-06:00
Location: River Runners

Cap off your day with thrilling rapids and riverside drinks on this one-of-a-kind rafting adventure!

Trip Overview

Duration:

1.5-2 hours / 6 mi

Rapids:

Intermediate - Class III (IV)

Age Restriction:

12+

Departure:

River Runners Browns Canyon

Location:

Buena Vista, Colorado

Pricing:

$94 Per Person

Check Availability

Trip Overview

Duration:

1.5-2 hours / 6 mi

Rapids:

Intermediate - Class III (IV)

Age Restriction:

12+

Departure:

River Runners Browns Canyon

Location:

Buena Vista, Colorado

Pricing:

$94 Per Person

Check Availability

Happy Hour Float - Exciting Rapids, Scenic Views, and Riverside Relaxation

The Happy Hour Raft Trip to the Beach is the ideal way to unwind after a day exploring Buena Vista. Paddle six miles down the Arkansas River, navigating exhilarating intermediate class III (IV) rapids along the way. Float past vibrant cottonwood groves, open meadows, and striking views of the Collegiate Peaks, keeping an eye out for wildlife like deer, hawks, and herons along the banks. Finish your adventure at the Beach restaurant and bar, where drinks are half-priced, dinner is optional, and relaxing riverside views await. Whether you’re here with friends or looking for a memorable evening experience, this unique rafting trip will be a highlight of your Colorado vacation.

Your Day on the River:
Step-by-Step

Helpful Info

Trip Photos

Make 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:

Skip sunscreen on your forehead—the helmet will cover this area and prevent sunscreen from dripping into your eyes when wet. Apply sunscreen below your helmet line and bring sunglasses for extra eye protection.
Temperatures can vary on evening floats, so wearing quick-drying layers lets you easily adjust your comfort.
Pack a spare set of clothes and a towel in your vehicle, ensuring you have something dry and warm after your float.

Weather & Season

Rafting Season:
Rafting on the Arkansas River peaks from mid-May through early September. Early season (mid-May to mid-June) offers thrilling, higher-water rapids due to snowmelt. From late June through July, river flows are ideal for exciting, intermediate rafting adventures. August through early September features calmer, scenic floats.

Trips Run Rain or Shine:
Our trips run in all weather conditions, as rafting is naturally a wet activity! Dress appropriately, embrace the splash, and look forward to an enjoyable river trip no matter the weather.

Alternative Routes & Adjustments:
At River Runners, safety and fun go hand-in-hand. River conditions sometimes require us to alter the trip itinerary without advance notice. If adjustments are needed, we’ll always prioritize your safety and comfort while delivering a memorable rafting experience.

Safety & Waivers

Our Commitment to Safety:
All trips are guided by experienced river experts certified in Swiftwater Rescue, CPR, and first aid. You’ll receive clear safety briefings, quality rafting gear, and comfortable, Coast Guard-approved Type V personal flotation devices (PFDs). Safety and fun are equally important, ensuring an exciting yet secure rafting experience.

Swimming Ability:
The Happy Hour Float offers intermediate rapids suitable for guests 12 and up who are comfortable around water and confident wearing a life jacket. Strong swimming skills aren’t required, as our guides prioritize your comfort and safety throughout the float.

Liability Waivers:
All participants age 18 and older must sign a liability waiver before the trip begins. Guests under 18 must have a waiver signed by their parent or guardian. This ensures everyone understands the nature of rafting and participates confidently in their adventure.

Cancellation Policy

Receive a full refund if you cancel your reservation at least 48 hours ahead of your scheduled float. If cancellations occur within 48 hours, you’ll receive a rain check minus a $10 per-person fee.

See Happy Hour Intermediate Rafting in Action

Explore the thrill and beauty of the Happy Hour rafting experience.

Hear From Our Happy
Adventurers

      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 951 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Jc Connell 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a great time and our guide Shawn was awesome!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Cecilia Green 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had an absolute ahhhmazing experience today.  We had Noah as our tour guide and could not have asked for a better time.  Thank You!   Everything was well explained and the conversations were so helpful and informative as we rafted.   Would recommend coming here for any age and stage in life.  There were little people on other rafts in our group that did wonderful too.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jakob Ekelöw 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great guide! Great river! everyone should do it! Thanks Jayson!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Neil Lacey 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Enjoyed a great whitewater rafting trip with River Runners near Buena Vista. The River guide Shaun was excellent- he made the trip fun. He was a great coach in guiding us down River. Had a great experience with Courtney in making my trip reservation. They also recently opened a restaurant on the property and serve awesome fish tacos. Check out River Runners for an exciting and fun day on the water!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   River Runners 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. AWESOME TIME! Eryn is the best guide ever. She is the best guide I have ever seen, wow!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Shawn McMillan 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Such an awesome trip!! Our guide, "Dodge", was very nice, instructive, professional, kind, and honestly just fun to be with. I highly recommend for anyone!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Chris T 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I very rarely leave reviews, but we had an awesome run with Tay! She was easily the best guide I've ever rafted with, including my past runs on other rivers in Colorado, Tennessee, South Carolina & Georgia. Literally everyone in the boat had a blast, kids and adults included! We will definitely ask for her again.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Kelsey 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We have been coming to River Runners yearly for almost a decade. It’s one of the highlights of our summer! The guides are ALL fantastic (Ask for William, also known as Mr Pancake), knowledgeable, safe, and entertaining. It's a GREAT activity for families and adults, the scenery is stunning.

Intermediate Rafting FAQs

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

Yes, our Happy Hour Raft Trip is suitable for first-timers who feel comfortable with moderate physical activity and a bit more excitement. The intermediate class III (IV) rapids offer a thrilling experience without being overly intense, making this an excellent introduction to whitewater rafting. Our professional, friendly guides will provide clear instruction and ensure you’re comfortable and confident throughout your adventure.

How physically demanding is this trip?

The Happy Hour Raft Trip is moderately active and best suited for guests comfortable with regular physical activity. You’ll paddle through exciting intermediate class III (IV) rapids, which require steady paddling and occasional bursts of effort. Previous rafting experience isn’t necessary, but participants should feel confident engaging in moderate exercise and following guide instructions throughout the trip.

What’s included in the price of the Happy Hour rafting trip?

Your rafting package includes professional river guides, all necessary rafting equipment (rafts, paddles, helmets, PFDs, wetsuits if needed), shuttle transportation from our Browns Canyon Outpost. We do not charge additional fees for standard equipment rental.

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

During your Happy Hour Raft Trip, you’ll enjoy beautiful canyon landscapes, lush riverside vegetation, and stunning mountain backdrops along the Arkansas River. Wildlife sightings often include mule deer grazing along the banks, bighorn sheep on canyon walls, hawks, great blue herons, and sometimes bald eagles soaring overhead. It’s the perfect blend of exciting rapids, scenic beauty, and memorable wildlife encounters.

Explore More Rafting
Adventures

Buena Vista

Milk Run Beginner Inflatable Kayaking

An hour on the Arkansas with the family. Easy Class I water, mountain views, and lunch at The Beach when you’re done.

Buena Vista

Inflatable Kayaking in Lower Browns Canyon

Paddle your own inflatable kayak through Class III rapids and one of Colorado’s most scenic canyons, with guide support the whole way.

Buena Vista

2-Day Numbers Overnight Rafting Trip

Two full days of whitewater, breathtaking alpine views and riverside camping in Browns Canyon.

Buena Vista

2-Day Browns Canyon Overnight Rafting Trip

Two days filled with splashy rapids, stunning canyon scenery, and relaxing riverside camping.

Buena Vista