Top Colorado White Water Rafting
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Home to two major rivers—the Arkansas and the Colorado—as well as a multitude of other waterways that begin gushing when the snow of the Rocky Mountains melts each summer, Colorado is one of the United States’ top river-rafting destinations. Here are our ideas and tips to help you choose the best rafting tour for you.
Highlights
- Tackle the Class III and IV rapids of the Arkansas River through Browns Canyon National Monument on a white water tour from Buena Vista.
- Paddle through Glenwood Canyon’s Class III and IV rapids on the Colorado River on a tour from Glenwood Springs.
- Experience the Royal Gorge, one of Colorado’s deepest canyons, on an Arkansas River rafting tour from Cañon City.
- Discover the Animas River and its Class I and up rapids on a tour from Durango.
- Closer to Denver, enjoy the Class II and III rapids of Clear Creek on a tour from Idaho Springs.
Things to Know
- Colorado’s rafting season is generally May to September.
- The amount of winter snowfall determines the water levels of the rivers each year, meaning that dry winters usually result in a shorter rafting season.
- River rapids are categorized into six classes, from Class I: easy to Class VI: extreme.
- Helmets, waterproof jackets, and other safety gear are typically provided.
- Rafting tours in Colorado’s popular vacation spots are generally family friendly and cater to beginners; you’ll receive a safety briefing and paddling instructions from the guide.
- Some tours offer a choice between a half- and full-day tour; full-day tours often include stopping on the riverbank for a provided lunch.
- The sun is stronger in high elevations so wear sunscreen, and bring sunglasses and a hat with straps so you won’t lose them in the water.
71 results | All Colorado Tours

Clear Creek Intermediate Whitewater Rafting near Denver
Get an eyeful of stunning Colorado scenery as well as learn about the canyon's Gold Rush history on this whitewater rafting tour. Appropriate for intermediate rafters, this tour shoots a long stretch of free-flowing whitewater. All equipment and the leadership of an experienced guide is included for your safety and comfort.
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$89.00
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$89.00

Beginner Whitewater Rafting on Historic Clear Creek
Even beginners can enjoy a whitewater rafting trip on Clear Creek with this guided tour. All instruction and equipment—wetsuits, paddles, life vests, and personal drybags—are provided for you. This tour is suitable for those who have no experience and is also perfect for families with children.
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$77.00
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$77.00

Glenwood Springs Half-Day Rafting Trip
Experience the excitement of a whitewater rafting adventure on this guided, 3-hour excursion. Choose from a morning or afternoon departure time, then ride along Shoshone Rapids in Glenwood Canyon on the Colorado River. Challenge Class III-IV rapids including Baptism, Tuttle's Tumble, The Wall, Tombstone, Superstition and more. All the necessary rafting equipment, including a life jacket and helmet, are included.
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$75.00
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$75.00

Glenwood Canyon Half-Day
The Colorado River is one of the US’ most popular spots for whitewater rafting, but if you’ve never been before, the Class III rapids can seem a bit scary. Take the stress away from a trip that should be fun with this Glenwood Canyon half-day rafting trip. Not only will your guide safely lead the way down the river, but all equipment is included.
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$72.00
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$72.00

Royal Gorge Half-Day Rafting Trip
When you're rafting beneath walls that tower 1,200 feet through a canyon just 26 feet wide, it suddenly all begins to make sense why this spot's called the Royal Gorge. During this 3 hour Royal Gorge rafting trip, experience the thrill of splashing down rapids with names like Sledgehammer Falls, and enjoy the pristine Colorado scenery from the seat of your whitewater raft. Professional guides help ensure your safety and discuss the history of the gorge, and this is the perfect way to spend half a day when visiting Canon City.
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$98.00
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$98.00

Half-Day Family Rafting in Durango, Colorado
Float down the Lower Animas River on this family-friendly rafting trip in Durango. As you glide over the rapids with a guide, you can enjoy views of Durango from the water and take in the natural beauty south of town. Stop on the riverside for a snack, and listen to stories about the history and traditions of the region. This is a mild rafting option for ages 4 years and up. Select a morning or afternoon departure time when booking.
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$97.01
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$97.01

Royal Gorge Half Day Rafting in Cañon City (Free Wetsuit Use)
Fly down Class III to IV rapids on this challenging whitewater rafting course in the Royal Gorge. Take in views of the 1,000-foot tall (300 meter) canyon walls from the waters of the Arkansas River as a guide helps you navigate your way down the course. This tour includes all equipment and a morning and afternoon departure time.
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From
$139.11
From
$139.11

Durango Rafting - Family Friendly Raft Trip
Experience the adrenaline-pumping excitement of a rafting adventure on this professionally guided, 4-hour excursion. Ride along the clear, crisp waters of the Animas River in Durango. Crash through the Class I, II and III rapids, which are less technical but no less exciting for an introductory river experience. It’s a perfect balance for kids and adults wanting to share a fun day on the river. All boating equipment, plus transportation and snacks are included.
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From
$80.00
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$80.00

Browns Canyon National Monument Whitewater Rafting
Explore Browns Canyon National Monument in a thrilling way during this whitewater rafting excursion. A professional guide will lead you through the Arkansas River, as you drift through calm waters and tackle Class III-IV rapids. All skill levels will find that this activity is both fun and manageable no matter your experience with whitewater rafting. Keep your eyes off the water as well; wildlife, dazzling granite rock formations, and mountainous peaks might make an appearance.
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From
$115.00
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$115.00

4.5-Hour *Most Popular* Rafting Trip Down the Animas River
Experience the full beauty of the Lower Animas with this 4.5-hour trip, about 3 hours on the water, which includes a snack break and an unforgettable adventure with expert local guides in Durango. Suited for the whole family, you will also have the option to purchase a photo CD to preserve your memories when the trip is done.
See historical Old West landmarks and hear stories about the early days of Durango. Our guides are more than just river guides – they are your guide to the history and lore of the region. All our Durango rafting trips include the famous whitewater park and smelter rapids.
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From
$99.00
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$99.00

Durango Family-Friendly 2-Hour Rafting Trip
Get your whole family out on the rapids with this whitewater rafting trip down the Animas River in Durango. Spend two hours in the company of an adventure guide, paddling over Class I, II, and III rapids, suitable for novices and experts alike (including children). Shoot down the river and take in the scenery, coming away with a sense of accomplishment and a better understanding of Colorado's wilderness.
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$65.00
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$65.00

Bighorn Sheep Canyon Half-Day Rafting
Paddle down the scenic Arkansas River on a half-day rafting adventure through Colorado’s Bighorn Sheep Canyon. Navigate class II and II whitewater rapids with an expert guide, and soak up the beauty of the surrounding high desert landscape, home to an abundance of native wildlife. It’s a great way for families and first-timers to experience one of Colorado’s favorite—and wettest!—outdoor adventure sports.
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$84.00
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$84.00

Raft the Colorado River through Glenwood Springs - Half Day Adventure
If you've always wanted to try rafting, grab a paddle for this thrilling half-day whitewater tour through Glenwood Canyon. Expert guides help you navigate the roaring Colorado River, from floating along gentle class I stretches to splashing through exciting class II and III rapids. Along the way, get a new perspective on the canyon’s ancient layers and keep an eye out for Colorado wildlife.
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From
$67.99
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$67.99

Half-Day Bighorn Sheep Canyon Rafting Adventure in Cotopaxi
There’s nothing like seeing Colorado’s exquisite scenery by water—and this trip along the mighty Arkansas River is perfect for both beginner and intermediate rafters. On this ministry-led journey, you’ll hit the whitewater rapids of Bighorn Sheep Canyon with a trained guide, marveling at the unparalleled scenery between taking on the churns. This is Colorado’s most popular river, and it’s easy to see why.
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From
$89.00
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$89.00

Browns Canyon Half Day Rafting
Explore Browns Canyon National Monument on a white-water rafting adventure. Spend a few hours shooting the Class III rapids, perfect for beginner or intermediate paddlers, in the company of a guide—perfect for families who want to raft together. Keep a lookout for local wildlife such as big horn sheep and blue heron as you paddle, learning about the area through your guide's commentary.
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$95.00
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$95.00

Upper Colorado River Half-Day Float Trip near Kremmling
See where the headwaters of the Colorado River flow with this exciting rafting trip down the Upper Colorado River. Known as the Upper-C, this float tour launching from Kremmling starts at the Pumphouse campground and flows through the Rocky Mountains. You’ll experience Class I and II rapids, and while thrilling, are ideal for children as young as 3. Cruise down these rapids, enjoying the amazing mountain scenery, and end your trip only 5.5 miles from the campground.
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$92.00
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$92.00

Half-Day Royal Gorge Whitewater Rafting Adventure Cañon City CO
If you’re looking for a river rafting adventure that’s easy to fit into a busy schedule, this Royal Gorge Whitewater Rafting Half-Day Adventure from Canon City is a perfect choice. In just a couple of hours, head out onto the water with a guide who knows how to handle more advanced rapids such as Class IV and Class V ones. Plus, easy transport to and from the river from Canon City is included, too.
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$105.00
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$105.00

Advanced Whitewater Rafting in Clear Creek Canyon near Denver
Advance paddlers will love challenging themselves with this technical run down Clear Creek. Listen closely to your experienced guide's instructions as you paddle through whitewater that plummets more than 100 feet per mile. Suitable only for good swimmers.
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$91.00
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$91.00

Intermediate Bighorn Sheep Canyon Whitewater Rafting Trip
See what makes Bighorn Sheep Canyon one of the most popular rafting locations near the Royal Gorge on a half-day whitewater adventure that’s suitable for both novices and experienced rafters. Soak up views of the Sangre de Cristo mountains and pristine Colorado scenery in between tackling class II-IV rapids. At just a half day, it's an easy way to fit in a favorite Rocky Mountains outdoor activity.
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From
$133.28
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$133.28

Half Day Bighorn Sheep Canyon Rafting Adventure Cañon City CO
Experience excellent Colorado Rafting as you hit the most exciting and iconic rapids in the Bighorn Sheep Canyon. This is the perfect Arkansas River trip for beginner to intermediate rafters.
Journey Quest is a non-profit Christ-centered rafting ministry, and these trip are uplifting, family-friendly adventures. You’ll love the scenery, the experience, and the intentional ministry led by our guides on your next Colorado whitewater rafting adventure.
For more information about this or any of our other activities, please contact Journey Quest
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From
$89.00
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$89.00

1-Day Arkansas River - Browns Canyon Rafting Trip
Experience the adrenaline-pumping excitement of a whitewater rafting adventure in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains on this professionally guided, full-day excursion. Ride along the clear, crisp waters of the Arkansas River, from the river’s source in the beautiful Arkansas Valley, with dramatic 14,000 foot peaks to the bottom of the Royal Gorge. Crash through the Class II and III rapids of the Granite Gorge and Browns Canyon National Monument whitewater. All boating equipment and lunch are included.
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$135.00
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$135.00

Half Day Roaring Fork Rafting
Get your adrenaline pumping and take in the views of Colorado's Roaring Fork Valley on this exciting whitewater rafting tour. Join a guide and small group and navigate Class II and III rapids as you float along the Crystal River between Carbondale and Glenwood Springs. Enjoy views of the towering Mount Sopris as well as possible sightings of wildlife.
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From
$67.00
From
$67.00

Half Day Browns Canyon Rafting Adventure
If you love outdoor adventure, whitewater rafting in Colorado is a must. On this whitewater tour from Buena Vista, raft down the Arkansas River through Browns Canyon, which provides the perfect combination of alpine scenery, rapids, calm stretches and family-friendly fun. With an experienced guide, you’ll navigate boulders and rapids known as Toilet Bowl and Big Drop.
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From
$99.95
From
$99.95

Half-Day Arkansas River - Salida Canyon Rafting Tour
Experience the adrenaline-pumping excitement of a whitewater rafting adventure on this professionally guided, half-day excursion. Ride along the clear, crisp waters of the Arkansas River, with beautiful views of the snow-covered Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Crash through the Class II rapids, which are less technical but no less exciting for an introductory river experience. It’s a perfect balance for kids and adults wanting to share a fun day on the river. All boating equipment — rain gear, drinking water and a personal floatation device — are included.
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From
$100.00
From
$100.00
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