White water rafting near Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park offers thrilling adventures on scenic rivers. While the park itself doesn’t have rafting routes, nearby areas provide exhilarating experiences for all skill levels. From gentle float trips on the Colorado River to challenging rapids on Clear Creek, visitors can enjoy a range of rafting options. This guide explores the best routes, rapids, guided tours, and safety tips for white water rafting in the Rocky Mountain region.
What Are the Best White Water Rafting Routes Near Rocky Mountain National Park?
While Rocky Mountain National Park doesn’t have rafting within its boundaries, several nearby rivers offer excellent opportunities:
- Colorado River Float Trips
- Location: Near Kremmling, CO
- Difficulty: Class II
- Length: 20-25 miles for full-day trips
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Duration: Approximately 9 hours
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Clear Creek Rafting
- Location: Idaho Springs, CO (about 1.5 hours from RMNP)
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Options:
- Clear Creek Gold Rush: Class III, 1/3 day
- Upper Clear Creek: Class IV, 1/2 day
- Lower Canyon: Class V, 1/2 day
- Phoenix Trip: Class V, full-day (20 miles)
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Arkansas River Trips
- While not directly adjacent to RMNP, these are popular Colorado rafting options:
- Browns Canyon: Class III, half-day
- Numbers: Class IV, half-day
Where Are the Most Exciting Rapids for White Water Rafting Near Rocky Mountain National Park?
Clear Creek
- Classification: Class III to V
- Average Flow Rates: 200 to 1,000 cubic feet per second (CFS)
- Peak Season: May to August
Colorado River
- Classification: Class II
- Average Flow Rates: 1,000 to 5,000 CFS
- Peak Season: June to September
Arkansas River
- Classification: Class III to IV
- Average Flow Rates: 500 to 3,000 CFS
- Peak Season: May to July
Which Companies Offer Guided White Water Rafting Tours Near Rocky Mountain National Park?
- AVA Rafting & Zipline
- Tours: Colorado River and Clear Creek trips
- Pricing:
- Full Day Float Trip (Colorado River): From $149 per adult, $144 for ages 5-12
- Clear Creek Trips: $60 to $150 per person
- Group Size: 6-12 people per raft
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Included:
- Equipment: Rafts, paddles, life jackets, wetsuits
- Amenities: Deli-style lunch (full-day trips), guides, hot springs access (where applicable)
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Glenwood Adventure Company
- Tours: Various river locations
- Pricing: $60 to $150 per person
- Group Size: 6-12 people per raft
- Included:
- Equipment: Rafts, paddles, life jackets, wetsuits
- Amenities: Guides, access to various river locations
What Safety Tips Should I Follow for White Water Rafting in Colorado?
Required Safety Gear
- Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs): Mandatory for all rafters
- Helmets: Required for Class III and above rapids
- Wetsuits: Recommended for colder water conditions
- River Shoes: Sturdy shoes with good grip are essential
Recommended PFDs
- Type I PFDs: For challenging rapids and colder waters
- Type III PFDs: For general rafting conditions
Emergency Contact Numbers
- Colorado Parks and Wildlife: (303) 297-1192
- Local Emergency Services: 911
- River Outfitter Emergency Contacts: Specific to each company
How Do I Choose the Right White Water Rafting Trip for My Skill Level?
Selecting the appropriate rafting trip depends on your experience and comfort level:
- Beginners:
- Colorado River Float Trips (Class II)
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Clear Creek Gold Rush (Class III)
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Intermediate:
- Upper Clear Creek (Class IV)
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Browns Canyon on Arkansas River (Class III)
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Advanced:
- Lower Canyon on Clear Creek (Class V)
- Phoenix Trip on Clear Creek (Class V)
- Numbers on Arkansas River (Class IV)
Consider factors such as:
– Physical fitness
– Swimming ability
– Comfort with adrenaline-pumping activities
– Age restrictions (some trips have minimum age requirements)
What Should I Pack for a White Water Rafting Trip in Colorado?
Essential items for your rafting adventure:
- Quick-drying clothing
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Sunglasses with strap
- Water bottle
- Towel
- Change of clothes for after the trip
- Waterproof camera (optional)
- Cash for gratuities
When Is the Best Time to Go White Water Rafting Near Rocky Mountain National Park?
The rafting season in Colorado typically runs from May to September, with peak conditions varying by river:
- Colorado River: Best from June to September
- Clear Creek: Optimal from May to August
- Arkansas River: Peak season from May to July
Factors affecting rafting conditions:
– Snowmelt: Higher water levels in late spring and early summer
– Rainfall: Can affect water levels throughout the season
– Temperature: Warmer months offer more comfortable conditions
How Do I Prepare Physically for a White Water Rafting Trip?
To ensure you’re ready for the physical demands of rafting:
- Cardiovascular exercises:
- Jogging
- Swimming
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Cycling
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Strength training:
- Upper body exercises (rowing, push-ups)
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Core strengthening (planks, sit-ups)
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Flexibility:
- Stretching routines
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Yoga
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Practice proper paddling technique:
- Join a local paddling club
- Take a kayaking or canoeing class
What Environmental Considerations Should I Be Aware of When Rafting in Colorado?
Responsible rafting practices to protect Colorado’s rivers:
- Leave No Trace principles:
- Pack out all trash
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Use designated restroom facilities
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Respect wildlife:
- Observe from a distance
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Do not feed animals
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Preserve vegetation:
- Stay on designated paths
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Avoid trampling riverside plants
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Water conservation:
- Use water sparingly at campsites
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Report any signs of pollution to authorities
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Support local conservation efforts:
- Participate in river clean-up events
- Donate to organizations protecting Colorado’s waterways
By following these guidelines, you’ll help preserve the natural beauty of Colorado’s rivers for future generations of rafters.
References:
1. Rocky Mountain National Park – AVA Rafting & Zipline
2. Upper Colorado Full Day Float Trip | BWR
3. Whitewater and Scenic Rafting – Glenwood Adventure Company