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
Tucked into the high-country valleys west of Rocky Mountain National Park, the Upper Colorado River is one of Colorado’s most beloved stretches of moving water. Known simply as the “Upper C” by guides and regulars, this wild and scenic section of the Colorado River flows through a remote landscape of canyon walls, cottonwood groves, and open skies — far from the crowds of more accessible destinations.
This is the headwaters of the mighty Colorado River system, the lifeblood of the American West, and it starts right here in the Rocky Mountains. Whether you’re new to rafting, traveling with young kids, or looking for a relaxing float between adventures, the Upper Colorado River delivers a distinctly different Colorado experience than you’ll find closer to Denver.
Remote and uncrowded. Located about 2 hours west of Denver near Kremmling, this stretch of river rewards those willing to make the drive.
Wild and scenic designation. This section of the Colorado is a designated Wild and Scenic River, meaning it’s protected for its outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values.
Wildlife around every bend. Bald eagles, bighorn sheep, mule deer, elk, and the occasional moose all call this canyon home. Dinosaur tracks are even visible in the canyon walls along certain stretches.
Geology you can read. The canyon walls along the Upper C tell a story hundreds of millions of years in the making. Your guide will point out formations, history, and geological features that make this stretch genuinely educational.
Natural hot springs access. Certain stretches of the river pass near natural hot springs — a feature no other Downstream Adventures river offers.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with an Upper Colorado River rafting trip! This scenic journey offers a perfect blend of fun and relaxation as you navigate rapids amidst breathtaking Rocky Mountain scenery. Led by expert guides, this trip is ideal for families and beginners looking to experience the thrill of rafting while enjoying the beauty of Colorado's wilderness.
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.
Join us for an exhilarating adventure as you paddle your inflatable kayak (known as a "duckie") alongside our rafts through 5.5 miles of thrilling Class II/III rapids. Experience the excitement of splashy rapids, soak in the breathtaking scenery, and enjoy tons of fun for everyone!
Colorado River Rafting Trips meet us at:
200 W Park Ave, Kremmling CO 80459
An epic ride through the legendary waters of the Colorado River.
The Upper Colorado River is a free flowing river fed by snowmelt. The water levels are continuously change providing a range of experiences. Generally, the higher the water level, the more challenging the trip. Our high water season, mid-late June, is the most exciting time to go rafting. Our more moderate flows come late May through early June and in July. Our typical low-water season is mid-May and August.
Wetsuits are typically overkill, but we do have a limited selection available on site. Splash jackets are provided but not always necessary on the Upper Colorado. You will want to wear clothes and footwear you are comfortable getting wet in. Swimsuit, athletic shorts, leggings, sun-hoody, rash guard, and fleece top are all suitable layers to wear. Avoid wearing any cotton. You will need shoes that stay on your feet, so no flip-flops or crocs. A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended.
Our trips go out rain or shine. It is extremely rare for us to cancel trips based on weather. Although we do reserve the right to cancel or alter trips if we deem conditions to be unsafe.
The Colorado high country often calls for rain in the forecast, but the forecast can be deceiving. Rain and thunderstorms are typically scattered and very short-lived. As the saying goes, “If you don’t like the weather in Colorado, wait 15 minutes.”
To access the wide open beauty of the Upper Colorado River, you will need to travel a little farther off the beaten path. Our Kremmling outpost is centrally located 1 hour from Steamboat Springs, Winter Park, Breckenridge, Vail and we are just under 2 hours west of Denver.
At Downstream Adventures, we guarantee that all of our guides are highly qualified and experienced. Each guide has been certified in CPR/first aid and trained in life-saving swiftwater rescue techniques, and that’s just our minimum requirement! All of our full-time guides have surpassed the highest level of guide qualification recognized by the state of Colorado (level 3).
Our guides are some of the most experienced in Colorado and are skilled in Swift-Water Rescue and precision boat control. Of course, you are entering a wild and natural environment and there are risks involved, but we at Downstream Adventures take great pride in making trip safety our top priority.
At Downstream Adventures, we’re not just taking you rafting — we’re delivering Colorado’s best whitewater experience. As a family-owned, locally operated outfitter, we care deeply about every trip we run. Our expert guides are fully certified, highly trained, and genuinely passionate about sharing their love for the river. With three incredible locations — Clear Creek just 35 minutes from Denver, the world-class whitewater of the Arkansas River, and the scenic beauty of the Upper Colorado River — we offer something for every kind of adventurer. We keep our trip sizes small to ensure a more personal, less crowded experience — because we believe that quality matters. Whether you’re a first-time rafter, an adrenaline junkie, or planning a family adventure, we’ve got the perfect trip for you. At Downstream Adventures, it’s more than rafting — it’s an unforgettable ride downstream.
Your safety is our top priority. We adhere to strict safety standards, so you can focus on the thrill of the rapids with confidence.
Our seasoned guides aren’t just knowledgeable about the rivers; they’re passionate about creating an exhilarating yet safe adventure for you.
We believe in using the best gear for the best experience. Our top-of-the-line equipment ensures both safety and excitement on the water.
Whether you’re a novice or a rafting veteran, we cater to all experience levels. Our trips are designed to accommodate everyone, ensuring a fantastic ride for all.
Located just a short drive from Denver and Colorado Springs, getting to your adventure has never been easier.
Join Downstream Adventures for a thrilling, safe rafting journey fueled by our deep passion for adventure and commitment to sharing it.
Choose Downstream Adventures for the ultimate white water rafting experience in Colorado. We’re more than a rafting outfitter; we’re your partners in creating memories that last a lifetime.