Rafting the Colorado River is an unforgettable and accessible experience for beginners, intermediate rafters and experienced riders. Traveling more than 1,400 miles, the Colorado River is an impressive geographic feature that winds through majestic canyons and snowy peaks before entering the Gulf of California. The river boasts a wide variety of rapids ranging from Class I through the ultra-dangerous Class VI level. Popular whitewater rafting trips include one-third and half-day tours. Experienced adventurers can travel a longer length of the river by taking a full-day trip or booking a multi-day whitewater rafting expedition.
The calm upper Colorado River is ideal for beginners, inflatable rafts and inflatable kayaks. Experienced rafters seeking big rapids can travel further downstream where the river picks up its pace. The headwaters of the Colorado River are located in the heart of the spectacular Rocky Mountains. Some of the most beautiful and serene rafting areas travel through Summit County, Dillon and the popular resort town of Breckenridge. In the winter, vacationers travel to Colorado for the world-class skiing. In the summer months, whitewater rafting is one of many recreational activities that bring the masses to this Mecca for outdoor adventures.
Departure points in Silverthorne and the foothills are accessible for vacationers and suburbanites leaving from the Denver area. Many whitewater rafting trips on the Colorado River have departure points located less than an hour from the city. The scenic and serene upper Colorado River and its tributaries are ideal for relaxing with family and friends. This calm passage takes rafters past abandoned pioneer cabins, deep swimming holes, therapeutic hot springs and outstanding views of the natural scenery. The upper Colorado River passes through the towering walls of the Little Gore Canyon and Red Rocks Canyon as it picks up speed on the way to the ocean.
Individuals who try rafting along the Colorado River can experience tame Class II rapids and raging whitewater over the course of a one-day trip or multi-day expedition. Rafting trips give riders the opportunity to see the river at their own pace while taking time to enjoy the beautiful views. Along the lower sections of the river, experienced whitewater rafters and serious adventurers can discover the thrill of rafting the Colorado River and the area’s best rapids. The famed whitewater of the Shoshone Rapids in Glenwood Canyon is one of the river’s most popular stretches for groups who want to experience the sheer power and force of the river’s turbulent whitewater.
Whitewater rafting is an activity with something for everyone. The Colorado River has all types of rapids, so groups of all ages and abilities can enjoy a day on the river. Families can experience the tame rapids of the serene headwaters while kicking back in an inflatable raft. Seasoned adventurers can enjoy a high-adrenaline expedition along the river’s lower sections. Rafting the Colorado River is an unforgettable experience for families, individuals and groups. Float the river and enjoy non-stop thrills and beautiful views of the canyons that were carved by the powerful whitewater of the Colorado River.