Expertly-led Rafting Trips Near Denver, Colorado
DOWNSTREAM ADVENTURES
Expertly-led Rafting Trips Near Denver, Colorado
DOWNSTREAM ADVENTURES
Welcome to Salida, the heart of the Upper Arkansas River Valley and a premier destination for unforgettable rafting adventures.
Known as the “Heart of the Rockies,” Salida offers a perfect blend of high-mountain culture and thrilling river action. If you’re searching for Salida whitewater rafting, you’ve come to the right place. Downstream Adventures is your expert outfitter, offering the area’s best trips on the world-famous Arkansas River—which flows right through the heart of town!
While the downtown stretch is popular for its gentle “Town Run,” our conveniently located outpost puts you just minutes away from the high-octane sections the region is known for, including:
After you conquer the rapids, the historic town of Salida is the perfect place to relax. Explore Colorado’s largest Historic District, browse the renowned Creative District’s galleries, or unwind at the famous Salida Hot Springs.
Ready to plan your perfect river adventure? Find the ideal trip for your crew below!
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.
Experience the thrill of white water rafting through the spectacular Browns Canyon on the Arkansas River with Downstream Adventures. Navigate exciting beginner to intermediate rapids and soak in breathtaking scenery on this unforgettable adventure in the heart of Colorado.
When you’re not out running the rapids, the historic town of Salida offers countless ways to explore the Arkansas River Valley.
Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center: Unwind after a long day on the water at the largest indoor hot springs facility in the country, heated with natural, geothermal water.
Historic Downtown & Creative District: Stroll through Colorado’s largest National Historic District, home to dozens of art galleries, unique boutiques, and local studios in the Certified Creative District.
Monarch Mountain (Year-Round): Just a short drive away, this area offers fantastic skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and the scenic Monarch Crest Tramway with breathtaking views during the summer.
Mountain Biking & Hiking: Salida is a cycling hub, providing access to extensive single-track trails like the Arkansas Hills Trail System and popular hikes up local peaks, including nearby “14ers” (14,000-foot mountains).
Riverside Park & Salida Whitewater Park: Enjoy the community vibe right on the Arkansas River, which includes a dedicated whitewater park for kayaking and boogie boarding.
The small-town charm of Buena Vista extends to its vibrant food and drink scene, perfect for refueling your crew.
Amica’s Pizza Microbrew & More: Serving up delicious wood-fired, thin-crust artisan pizzas, pasta, and unique house-brewed beers in a casual, fun atmosphere.
Moonlight Pizza & Brewpub: A long-standing community staple known for its quality handcrafted pizzas, house-made sodas, and laid-back feel.
Currents Steak & Seafood: The go-to option for a more upscale dining experience, offering premium steaks, fresh seafood, and a refined wine list in the downtown area.
High Side! Bar & Grill: A great spot for a casual lunch or dinner, offering creative bar food, a lively atmosphere, and a popular patio close to the river.
A balance between historic charm, chain reliability, and modern adventure-focused options..
The most popular and best whitewater rafting near Salida is on the Arkansas River, specifically the sections that run through the Browns Canyon National Monument. Our Nathrop outpost is perfectly located to access both the intermediate family-friendly rapids of Browns Canyon rafting (Class III-IV) and the advanced rapids of The Numbers rafting trip (Class IV-V)
Experience: No previous rafting experience is required for our beginner and intermediate trips (like Browns Canyon). Our professional guides provide a comprehensive safety talk and paddle instruction before you launch.
Swimming: For all trips, participants wear Coast Guard-approved Personal Flotation Devices (life jackets) designed to keep you afloat. However, strong swimming skills are required for our advanced runs, such as The Numbers Rafting Trip (Class IV/V), due to the continuous and technical nature of the rapids. Non-swimmers can usually be accommodated on our mildest floats.
The peak Salida rafting season runs from late May through August.
Late May–June (High Water): Ideal for thrill-seekers and experienced paddlers. Snowmelt creates high volume and the biggest waves.
July (Peak Season): The most popular time. Water levels are moderate, offering a thrilling but family-friendly experience with warmer weather.
August–Early September (Low Water): Warmer water and air temperatures. The river flow is gentler, making it perfect for beginners, scenic floats, and families with younger children.
Wear: Quick-drying synthetic materials (like polyester, fleece, or swimwear). Avoid cotton (jeans, sweatshirts), as it stays cold when wet. Bring secure footwear that will stay on your feet (old tennis shoes or strap-on water sandals—no flip-flops or Crocs).
Provided: We include essential gear, such as a Coast Guard-approved PFD (life jacket) and a helmet. For cold weather or high water, we also provide complimentary (or for a small fee) wetsuits, neoprene booties, and splash jackets to keep you warm on the river.
Our Downstream Adventures Arkansas River Outpost is located in Nathrop, CO, right on US Hwy 285. This is the closest base camp to the river sections you want to run. It is an easy 20-25 minute drive north from downtown Salida.
Yes. We offer trips appropriate for nearly all ages and skill levels.
Beginners and Young Families typically choose our Family Float or the intermediate sections of Browns Canyon National Monument (minimum age generally starts at 7, water level dependent).
Advanced paddlers choose The Numbers, which is recommended for ages 14+ or 16+ depending on water levels. Always check the specific age and weight minimums for your chosen trip before booking.
Our Downstream Adventures Arkansas River outpost is located in Nathrop, a little over 20 minutes from Salida, CO.
From Denver Area: Take US-285 S over Kenosha Pass (approx. 2.5 hours in clear traffic).
From Colorado Springs: Take US-24 W toward Buena Vista/Salida. In Johnson Village, turn South onto US-285 S toward Salida. (Approx. 2 hours).
From Salida: Head north on US Hwy 285 N (or follow CO-291 N which merges onto 285 N). (Approx. 20-25 minutes).
Get in touch with our Reservations & Support team.