Expertly-led Rafting in Colorado
GET 20% OFF RAFTING WITH CODE: ready2raft26
GET 20% OFF RAFTING WITH CODE: ready2raft26
Expertly-led Rafting in Colorado
GET 20% OFF RAFTING WITH CODE: ready2raft26
GET 20% OFF RAFTING WITH CODE: ready2raft26
The Lower Clear Creek Canyon is a different river than what you find upstream. Where the Upper section gives you steep and continuous Class III-IV whitewater, the Lower Canyon drops harder, tightens further, and commits you to some of the most consequential rapids on Clear Creek. This is the trip for people who’ve done intermediate rafting and are ready to find out what the next level actually feels like.
Once the canyon walls close in, the gradient hits 100 feet per mile and the character of the river changes entirely. You’ll work through Double Knife’s consecutive drops, Terminator’s powerful hydraulic, and Hell’s Corner, the technical finish at the canyon’s narrowest and most demanding point. Every trip also runs with a dedicated safety kayaker alongside your raft — an experienced guide in a solo kayak covering eddies and positioned to respond immediately below each major rapid. That level of safety coverage isn’t standard at every outfitter on Clear Creek.
The minimum age is 16, strong swimming ability is a firm requirement, and genuine physical fitness is non-negotiable. This isn’t the trip for anyone on the fence — but for the right group, it’s the most rewarding three hours of whitewater within 40 minutes of Denver.
Not quite ready? The Upper Clear Creek intermediate trip is the right next step. Want the full river in one day? The Full Day Clear Creek trip has you covered.
Note: Neoprene bootie rentals are available for $5 per person.
For more information, check out our recommendations on rafting safety & basics.
Previous rafting experience is great to have, but not a requirement. Our ideal candidate is someone that is physically fit and is a strong swimmer. An athletic group that works together can be taught all they need to know by their guides before they launch.
Yes, being able to swim is a requirement for the Lower Clear Creek Advanced Trip.
On the Lower Clear Creek Advanced trip, our rafts hold a maximum of 6 paddlers plus a guide.
Rafting the Lower Clear Creek Canyon is an advanced rafting trip, and like all rafting, there are always inherent risks, but our guides are highly trained, experienced, and certified, and will guide you on how to raft safely.
The Upper section is our most popular intermediate run — continuous Class III-IV rapids, great for adults and teens 13+ including those with little or no prior rafting experience. The Lower Canyon is a step up in every meaningful way: steeper gradient, heavier hydraulics, narrower canyon walls, and Class IV-V rapids that demand more precise boat control and stronger paddling. The minimum age increases to 16, and strong swimming ability is a firm requirement rather than a recommendation. Many people do the Upper first and return for the Lower when they’re ready. If you’ve done the Upper and want to know what’s next, this is the answer. Not sure which one is right for your group? Give us a call and we’ll help you decide.
Yes. Every Lower Canyon trip at Downstream Adventures runs with a dedicated safety kayaker on the water alongside your raft. This is an experienced guide in a solo kayak who is positioned to respond quickly if anyone comes out of the boat, covers eddies below significant rapids, and communicates with your raft guide throughout the run. It’s a meaningful safety measure on Class IV-V water, and it’s not something every outfitter on Clear Creek includes as standard. Our guides are certified in swift-water rescue and trained well beyond Colorado’s minimum requirements — the safety kayaker is one more layer on top of that.
Check out the best Intermediate Rafting Trip near Denver. Upper Clear Creek is an ideal white water rafting trip packed with excitement. With more rapids per mile than nearly any other commercially run stretch in the nation, Clear Creek guarantees a rush like no other. And the best part? You only drive 45 minutes from Denver to experience the thrill! Join us for an unforgettable rafting adventure on the rapids of Upper Clear Creek.
Join us for an adrenaline-fueled rafting adventure on the Numbers! Experience the thrill of navigating intense Class IV and V rapids through breathtaking Colorado scenery, making it the ultimate challenge for experienced rafters and adventurous first timers seeking an unforgettable white water experience.
Gore Canyon Rafting trip is an adrenaline-fueled adventure through the heart of one of Colorado's most legendary whitewater rafting destinations. Nestled within steep granite walls, this thrilling journey promises class IV to V rapids that will test even the most seasoned adventurers. Prepare for an unforgettable experience as immersing yourself in the rugged beauty of this iconic Colorado wilderness.