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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.

Trip Overview

Duration:

2 Hours On The River

Rapids:

Class III

Age Restriction:

12+

Departure:

River Runners Browns Canyon

Location:

Buena Vista, Colorado

Pricing:

$94 Per Person

Check Availability

Trip Overview

Duration:

2 Hours On The River

Rapids:

Class III

Age Restriction:

12+

Departure:

River Runners Browns Canyon

Location:

Buena Vista, Colorado

Pricing:

$94 Per Person

Check Availability

Experience Lower Browns Canyon by Inflatable Kayak: Rapids, Mountains, & Swimming

Lower Browns Canyon is one of Colorado’s most scenic stretches of river, and a 2-hour inflatable kayak trip is the right way to take it in. You’ll paddle past dramatic canyon walls with sweeping views of the Sangre de Cristo and Sawatch mountain ranges, working through lively Class III rapids in between. Beginners can handle this trip. Your guides are alongside the whole way to coach paddling, lines, and safety.

The float isn’t all whitewater. Between rapids, the river opens up and there’s time to stop, swim, and jump from rocks before drifting back into the current. By the time you finish near Salida, you’ve packed canyon scenery, real Class III paddling, and easy river time into a single afternoon.

Your Day on the River:
Step-by-Step

Helpful Info

Essential Items:

  • Athletic moisture-wicking clothing
  • Swimsuit
  • Secure footwear (water shoes with a back strap or old tennis shoes)
  • Sunglasses with retainers

For the Weather:

  • Sunscreen
  • Water bottle
  • Hat
  • Light jacket or fleece (if the forecast calls for colder weather)

Do Not Bring:

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

What We Provide:

  • Inflatable kayak and paddle
  • 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. 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 lets you adapt easily if you’re chilly or warming 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.

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 with fast and exhilarating rapids, especially from late May to mid-June. From late June through July, flows settle to ideal rafting levels with plenty of action and the most popular trips running, plus full summer weather. From August into early September and 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. 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:

Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities. Occasionally, we may 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 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.

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.

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 the Lower Browns Canyon Inflatable Kayak Trip in Action

Watch what a day of Class III paddling, mountain views, and clear-water swim stops actually looks like.

Hear From Our Happy
Adventurers

Inflatable Kayaking FAQs

Yes. The route includes Class III rapids, but beginners can handle it. Your guides are with you the whole way to coach paddling and lines. The minimum age is 12.

An inflatable kayak and all necessary equipment, the shuttle to the Hecla Junction launch and from Stone Bridge back to River Runners, and full guide support and safety instruction throughout the trip.

You’ll spend 2 hours on the river. Plan additional time for check-in, gear fitting, and the shuttles to and from the launch.

Class III on the Arkansas River through Lower Browns Canyon, with calmer sections in between for swimming and rock jumping.

Dramatic canyon walls, with views opening up to the Sangre de Cristo and Sawatch mountain ranges.

You’ll meet at River Runners Browns Canyon, shuttle to the launch at Hecla Junction, paddle through the canyon, and finish near Salida before shuttling back from Stone Bridge.

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