Rafting Near Denver

Whitewater Rafting Denver Colorado

Embark on a thrilling white water rafting adventure near Denver with Downstream Adventures. Clear Creek whitewater rafting is one of our favorite things to do near Denver, and is only 40 minutes away!

Experience adrenaline-pumping rapids amid breathtaking Rocky Mountain scenery and diverse wildlife. Whether you’re looking for white water rafting for beginners, craving the challenge of an Upper Clear Creek rafting trip, or ready to take on the intensity of Lower Clear Creek rafting, we’ve got a trip designed for you. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, join us on our full-day Clear Creek River rafting adventure. Choose your level and let Downstream Adventures awaken your sense of adventure! If you’re looking for lodging near Denver, with easy access to rafting adventures, hiking, snowmobiling, and more, we’ve got you covered there as well. An unforgettable adventure of whitewater rafting near Denver awaits!

Whitewater Rafting Near Denver

Skip the drive back to the city and stay right where the adventure happens. Our lodging near Denver, next to our Empire basecamp on Clear Creek, gives you immediate access to world-class rafting near Denver. Wake up in the mountains, step outside, and you’re ready to raft, hike, mountain bike, and more. It’s the easiest way to experience Denver whitewater rafting without the hassle of commuting from the city at the end of your adventure. Perfect for families, groups, and anyone wanting to make the most of their rafting getaway. 

STAY AND PLAY

Get 10% off rafting when you book lodging

Denver skyline against a blue sky
people in a blue raft whitewater rafting near Denver
cabins in the Rockies to stay when rafting near Denver
road in a valley with the Rocky Mountains in the background on the way to Denver whitewater rafting

Activities in Denver

  • Red Rocks Amphitheater: A stunning natural amphitheater renowned for its breathtaking rock formations and world-class concerts. A Great place for hiking, sightseeing, and live music.
  • Denver Brew Tours: Offering immersive experiences, showcasing the vibrant craft beer scene of Colorado’s capital through guided tastings and brewery visits.
  • Colorado Rockies: Enjoy America’s pastime at one of the country’s premier ballfields. Attending a Rockies game is an exhilarating experience, filled with the excitement of baseball, stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, and the vibrant atmosphere of Coors Field.
  • Union Station: A historic transportation hub in Denver, Colorado, blending modern amenities with timeless elegance, serving as a focal point for dining, shopping, and travel.
  • Denver White Water Rafting: Clear Creek offers thrilling rafting adventures within 35 minutes of the Mile High City. Denver Rafting trips take you through scenic mountain landscapes, with adrenaline-pumping rapids and unforgettable outdoor experiences.

Restaurants in Denver

  • Casa Bonita: A colorful and iconic restaurant in Denver, famous for its Mexican cuisine, cliff divers, and lively entertainment in a vibrant, themed atmosphere.
  • Rioja: A culinary gem in Denver, known for its innovative Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service.
  • Denver Central Market: a bustling food hall in the heart of the city, offering a diverse array of artisanal foods, drinks, and culinary delights in a vibrant communal space.

Lodging in Denver

  • Omni Interlocken Hotel: A luxurious retreat nestled in the scenic beauty of Broomfield, Colorado, offering upscale accommodations, championship golf courses, and rejuvenating spa experiences.
  •  Table Mountain Inn: A charming boutique hotel in Golden, Colorado, offering Southwestern-inspired hospitality, cozy accommodations, and easy access to outdoor adventures and cultural attractions.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Clear Creek offers the best rafting near Denver, located just 45 minutes west of downtown via I-70. With more rapids per mile than nearly any other commercially rafted river in Colorado, Clear Creek delivers non-stop action and excitement. Our Empire basecamp provides easy access to multiple sections of the creek, offering beginner, intermediate, and advanced trips all within minutes of each other. Unlike other Colorado rafting destinations that require 2-3 hours of driving, Clear Creek’s proximity to Denver means you can experience world-class whitewater without sacrificing your entire day. The combination of thrilling rapids, stunning mountain scenery, and unbeatable convenience makes Clear Creek rafting trips the top choice for rafting close to Denver.

Your rafting adventure near Denver begins at our Empire basecamp, where you’ll meet your guide, receive safety gear (including wetsuit, helmet, and PFD), and get a thorough safety orientation. Depending on your chosen trip level, expect 2-4 hours of exciting rapids ranging from Class II to Class IV+. All trips include professional guides, top-quality equipment, and transportation to and from the river. You’ll navigate thrilling whitewater while surrounded by stunning Rocky Mountain scenery—all within 45 minutes of Denver. Plan to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled trip time for check-in and gear fitting.

No experience is required for most rafting near Denver! Our professional guides provide comprehensive safety briefings and paddling instruction before every trip. We offer adventures for all skill levels, from gentle family floats on Middle Clear Creek to adrenaline-pumping advanced runs on a Lower Clear Creek rafting trip. Whether it’s your first time on the water or you’re an experienced rafter, we have the perfect trip near Denver for your ability level and adventure goals.

The prime season for rafting near Denver runs from May through August on Clear Creek. June typically offers the highest water levels and most thrilling rapids, thanks to peak snowmelt from the Continental Divide. July and August provide warmer weather, more consistent flows, and sunny Colorado days perfect for water adventures. Clear Creek maintains excellent rafting conditions throughout the summer, making it the most reliable option for rafting close to Denver.

Directions for Denver Whitewater Rafting

Clear Creek Outpost

Address: 409 Park Ave, Empire, CO 80438

Upper Colorado River Outpost

Address: 200 Park Ave, Kremmling, CO 80459

Arkansas River Outpost

Address: 17897 US Hwy 285, Nathrop, CO 81236

Have more questions about rafting near denver?

Get in touch with our Reservations & Support team.