Colorado Whitewater Rafting

When the winter snow melts, the rivers in Colorado rise, creating some of the best whitewater in the country. The rafting season runs from later spring through summer, and varies on location.

Animas River Durango	Arkansas River BV, Salida, Canon City	Blue River Silverthorne
Clear Creek Idaho Springs	Colorado River Glenwood Spgs, Kremmling	Dolores River Cortez
Eagle River Vail	Gunnison River Delta	N Platte River Walden
Poudre River Fort Collins	Taylor River CB, Gunnison	Yampa River Dinosaur, Steamboat Spgs

Guide to Whitewater Rafting in Colorado

Most of the major rivers in Colorado are rafted, with the Arkansas River being the most popular. The Arkansas is known for the Royal Gorge and serious whitewater. Depending on snow melt and location, the rafting season runs mid April through September.

Clear Creek is the closest to Denver, making it a great day trip. For a more tranquil experience, try a multi-day trip on the Yampa River to Dinosaur. For the exact opposite, try Gore Canyon in August.

If you’re going on a commercial rafting trip, wet suits, booties and a helmet are usually provided.

Other items to bring:

• ​Sunglasses – with retainer loop or bring cheap ones
• Sunscreen – very important
• Water shoes or sneakers, booties may be provided
• Waterproof camera if you can manage it

Some related activities

Boating

River Tubing