Rafting Near Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs Rafting

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature with Downstream Adventures! Located near Colorado Springs, Clear Creek rafting offers the perfect setting for a thrilling white water experience. Surrounded by stunning Rocky Mountain landscapes and teeming with exciting rapids, Clear Creek white water rafting or Arkansas River rafting is the ultimate rural getaway.

No matter your skill level, our exhilarating white water trips are designed to awaken your sense of adventure and leave you with unforgettable memories. Book your trip with Downstream Adventures today and experience the thrill of Colorado white water rafting near Colorado Springs!

Clear Creek & Arkansas River

Restaurants

1. Phantom Canyon Brewing Co.

  • Classic Colorado brewery experience
  • Central downtown location
  • Great post-rafting vibe

2. The Skirted Heifer

  • Award-winning, well-known locally
  • Fast, casual, and memorable (good for tourists)

3. Shuga’s

  • Unique, trendy, and highly rated
  • Appeals to a broad audience (especially younger travelers)

Activities

1. Garden of the Gods

  • Iconic red rock formations with hiking, biking, and rock climbing
  • Free entry and one of the most visited parks in Colorado
  • Great for sunrise/sunset photos

2. Pikes Peak (America’s Mountain)

  • Drive or take the Cog Railway to 14,115 ft
  • Panoramic views and a bucket-list Colorado experience
  • Mention altitude + donuts at the summit (adds personality)

7. Royal Gorge Bridge & Park

  • About 1 hour from Colorado Springs
  • Suspension bridge, zipline, gondola

Lodging

1. The Broadmoor

  • Most famous property in the area
  • Adds authority and aspirational appeal

2. Garden of the Gods Resort & Club

  • Incredible views + strong “Colorado experience” vibe
  • Great alignment with outdoor adventure branding

3. Cheyenne Mountain Resort

  • Family-friendly, mid-to-upscale option
  • Appeals to a wide range of travelers

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Most of the best whitewater rafting near Colorado Springs is located on the Arkansas River, about 1 to 1.5 hours away depending on the section. Popular rafting areas like Browns Canyon and the Royal Gorge offer a wide range of trips for beginners and experienced rafters alike.

For first-time rafters, Browns Canyon National Monument is one of the best options near Colorado Springs. It features fun Class II–III rapids, incredible scenery, and a great balance of excitement and relaxation.

The rafting season near Colorado Springs typically runs from May through September, with peak flows in June and early July due to snowmelt. Late summer offers slightly calmer water levels, making it a great time for families and beginners.

Absolutely! Many visitors pair their rafting trip with nearby attractions like Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, or the Royal Gorge Bridge. Rafting on the Arkansas River is an easy and exciting day trip from Colorado Springs that leaves time to explore nearby areas.

19+ Years of Happy Customers

Directions From Colorado Springs

Clear Creek Location

Traveling east or west on I-70, take exit 232 and follow US-40 West to the town of Empire. We are in the second building on your right as you enter Empire. Map services such as Google Maps may recommend that you use the address: 409 Park Avenue, Idaho Springs, CO. This isn’t our official address, but it (somehow) takes you to the right spot.

 

The total trip time should be about 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. It is important to arrive at our base 30 minutes before your scheduled trip time in order to sign waivers and get changed. I-70 can have heavy traffic, so it is best to check travel conditions when planning your drive.

Have more questions?

Get in touch with our Reservations & Support team.