Colorado is a Meca for outdoor adventurers, and whitewater rafting tops the list of must-try experiences in the Centennial State. From scenic family-friendly floats to adrenaline-pumping Class V rapids, Colorado’s rivers offer something for every skill level. If you’re searching for the best whitewater rafting in Colorado, look no further! In this guide, we’ll explore the top places to raft, uncovering hidden gems and iconic runs alike. Whether you’re planning your first Colorado rafting trip or seeking your next big challenge, these destinations promise unforgettable adventures and the best rafting in America.
Best Rafting in Colorado
1. Arkansas River
Why It’s Great:
The Arkansas River is Colorado’s most popular rafting destination and is considered by many as the best whitewater rafting in America. Flowing through picturesque valleys and rugged canyons, It offers a diverse mix of rapids and experiences. Arkansas River rafting trips are ideal for beginners, families, and seasoned thrill-seekers alike.
Popular Rapids:
- Brown’s Canyon: Colorado’s #1 Class III section with breathtaking scenery, perfect for families and those seeking a mix of excitement and tranquility.
- The Numbers: A technical stretch featuring Class IV-V rapids that challenge even the most experienced rafters.
- Royal Gorge: Known for its dramatic canyon walls and exhilarating Class IV-V rapids, this is a must-do for adrenaline junkies.
Pro Tips:
- Peak rafting season runs from late May to early August, with the best white water rafting flows in June and July.
- Consider an overnight trip to fully enjoy the Arkansas River’s beauty, complete with campfires, gourmet riverside meals, and stargazing.
2. Colorado River
Why It’s Great:
The Colorado River offers a diverse range of experiences, from calm scenic floats to adrenaline-pumping rapids. Its iconic path cuts through dramatic canyons, lush valleys, and historic landscapes, making it some of the best rafting in Colorado for river enthusiasts.
Popular Rapids:
- Pumphouse Section: A beginner-friendly stretch featuring Class I-II rapids, with stunning views of the surrounding cliffs. This section is ideal for families and those seeking a relaxing yet scenic experience.
- Gore Canyon: A challenging section with Class IV-V rapids, attracting advanced paddlers looking for technical maneuvers and thrilling drops.
- Shoshone Rapids: A short but exciting section with Class III-IV rapids, great for intermediate rafters and families wanting a taste of adventure.
- Ruby-Horsethief Canyon: A serene, multi-day trip option offering Class I-II rapids through red rock canyons and incredible side hiking opportunities.
Pro Tips:
- The Pumphouse section is an excellent starting point for newcomers to rafting, with ample opportunities for fishing and wildlife spotting.
- Gore Canyon is best tackled by experienced rafters or as part of a guided trip, especially during peak flows.
- Plan your visit from Memorial Day through Labor Day for optimal water levels and weather conditions.
3. Clear Creek
- Beginner Section: Continuous Class II-III rapids that provide an excellent introduction for families and first-time rafters. Our Middle Clear Creek rafting trip provides the perfect beginner experience.
- Intermediate Section: Includes exciting Class III-IV rapids like Phoenix and Outer Limits, perfect for those seeking a bit more adrenaline. Check out our Upper Clear Creek rafting trip today!
- Advanced Section: Featuring Class IV-V rapids such as Double Knife and Hell’s Half-Mile, this stretch is ideal for experienced rafters.
- The best white water rafting in Colorado is from May to July when snowmelt increases water flow.
- The area’s rich history as a Gold Rush hub makes it a fascinating spot to combine outdoor adventures with miner tours and historic attractions.
- After your raft trip, drop into Idaho Springs’ historic downtown, where you’ll explore charming shops, local breweries, and delicious restaurants to round out your day.
4. Yampa River
Why It’s Great:
The Yampa River is one of the last free-flowing rivers in the United States, offering pristine wilderness and stunning canyon views. Its multi-day trips through Dinosaur National Monument make it a standout destination for rafting enthusiasts.
Popular Rapids:
- Warm Springs: A thrilling Class III-IV rapid that offers a mix of technical moves and big waves.
- Cross Mountain Canyon: Known for its intense Class IV-V rapids, this section is a favorite among advanced rafters seeking a rugged and remote adventure.
Pro Tips:
- Plan your trip during the spring runoff (May to early June) for the best white water rafting flows.
- Be prepared for a true wilderness experience—many sections are remote with limited access.
- Multi-day trips are a must for fully immersing yourself in the river’s natural beauty.
5. Animas River
Why It’s Great:
Flowing through the charming town of Durango, the Animas River offers both thrilling rapids and picturesque scenery. Its wide range of difficulty levels makes it suitable for rafters of all abilities.
Popular Rapids:
- Lower Animas: A Class I-II stretch great for families and beginners.
- Upper Animas: A challenging section with Class IV-V rapids, perfect for experienced rafters seeking big water thrills.
Pro Tips:
- Peak rafting season is June through August, with the Upper Animas best tackled during early summer runoff.
- Combine your rafting adventure with a ride on the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad for a unique experience.
6. Poudre River
Why It’s Great:
As Colorado’s only designated Wild and Scenic River, the Cache la Poudre River offers pristine waters and a mix of rapids for all skill levels. It’s conveniently located near Fort Collins, making it a popular day trip destination.
Popular Rapids:
- Lower Poudre: A calmer section with Class II-III rapids, perfect for families and beginners.
- Upper Poudre: Features Class III-IV rapids for more experienced adventurers.
Pro Tips:
- Visit in late spring to early summer for the best flows.
- Bring a camera—this river’s untouched beauty is a photographer’s dream.
7. Gunnison River
Why It’s Great:
The Gunnison River offers dramatic canyon landscapes and thrilling rapids, making it a favorite for both rafters and kayakers. The remote sections of the river, especially the Gunnison Gorge, are teeming with wildlife such as bald eagles, bighorn sheep, and deer. The lack of crowds enhances the sense of solitude and connection with nature. The river is relatively easy to access near towns like Gunnison and Delta, yet some sections, like the Gunnison Gorge, require a rugged hike to the put-in, adding an adventurous twist to the trip.
Popular Rapids:
- Gunnison Gorge: A remote section with Class III-IV rapids, ideal for multi-day trips.
- Lower Gunnison: A mellower stretch with Class I-II rapids, great for families and fishing enthusiasts.
Pro Tips:
- Guided trips are highly recommended for navigating the remote Gunnison Gorge.
- Combine rafting with fly fishing for an unforgettable experience.
- The river’s flow varies seasonally, offering everything from mellow floats in late summer to challenging high-water runs during spring snowmelt, which makes this a worthy addition to our list of the best places to raft.
8. Dolores River
Why It’s Great:
The Dolores River is a hidden gem in Colorado rafting, offering a mix of solitude and natural beauty. Its seasonal flows make it a rare but rewarding adventure. The river corridor is rich in wildlife, including river otters, bighorn sheep, and eagles. It’s also steeped in history, with remnants of Native American and early settler cultures visible along the way.
Popular Rapids:
- Slickrock to Bedrock: A beautiful Class II-III section with unique geological formations.
- Snaggletooth Rapid: A challenging Class IV rapid that will test even experienced rafters.
Pro Tips:
- Water flows are heavily dependent on snowpack, so check conditions before planning a trip.
- Late spring is usually the only time the river is runnable.
Conclusion
Colorado is home to some of the best whitewater rafting in America, offering thrilling rapids, serene floats, and unforgettable landscapes. From the adrenaline-pumping Arkansas River to the wilderness of the Upper Colorado River, there’s a perfect trip for every adventurer.
Ready to hit the river? Book your whitewater rafting adventure with Downstream Adventures today! Our experienced guides will ensure your trip is fun, exciting, and packed with memories to last a lifetime.
Downstream Adventures
Downstream Adventures was started by two brothers with a deep love for the outdoors and whitewater rafting. We are excited to bring our passion to you by sharing our knowledge of the area and what makes it so great!
