Colorado locals and tourists alike flock to Aspen in both winter and summer for the breathtaking views, recreation opportunities, restaurants, nightlife and culture. Although Aspen may be well known for its four ski mountains and winter snow sports, the mountain town’s location near some of the best whitewater rafting and outdoor adventure opportunities in Colorado makes for an exciting summer visit!
The former silver-mining town of Aspen additionally offers ample opportunities to explore the area’s history and culture. Catch a headline show at Belly Up, Aspen’s 500 person concert space, or check out a show at the Aspen Theatre, making sure to save time for sampling the area’s restaurants, most with outdoor seating perfect for enjoying a warm summer night.
LOCATION: Buena Vista, CO
ACTIVITIES: Whitewater Rafting Colorado
DURATION: 1/2 Day
DIFFICULTY: Level 4 (moderate)
RIVER RATING: Class III
MINIMUM AGE: 7 years old
PRICE: from $94 Ages 13+
from $89 Ages 7-12
LOCATION: Buena Vista, CO
ACTIVITIES: Browns Canyon Rafting, Via Ferrata
DURATION: Full Day
DIFFICULTY: Level 5 (intense)
RIVER RATING: Class III
MINIMUM AGE: 12 years old
PRICE: from $238
LOCATION: Buena Vista, CO
ACTIVITIES: The Numbers Rafting, Zipline
DURATION: Full Day
DIFFICULTY: Level 5 (intense)
RIVER RATING: Class IV
MINIMUM AGE: 15 years old
PRICE: from $213
Some of the most scenic Whitewater Rafting trips lie just over Independence Pass on the Arkansas River, about one hour from Aspen. AVA runs Arkansas River whitewater rafting trips from our Buena Vista outpost, approximately one and a half hours from Aspen. This area is perfect for all abilities and skill levels, with offerings from family whitewater trips to the most advanced rafting in the state. This area also provides opportunities for Zipline, Via Ferrata, and Horseback Riding adventures. Whether this is your first time in Aspen or you’re looking to increase the thrill level of your vacation, add even more excitement to your mountain adventure with one of our adventure trips or full day packages!
The majestic Arkansas River is located 1 hour from Aspen, with our outpost in Buena Vista, Colorado. Rafters on this river will experience some of the most stunning scenery in Colorado, including views of the Collegiate Peak Mountain Range within the Sawatch Range.
Our Browns Canyon 1/2 Day trip will take you on ride through the Browns Canyon National Monument, allowing for plenty of opportunities to appreciate the impressive granite canyon, beautiful scenery, and wildlife along the way. Choose the Browns Canyon Sizzler and turn this intermediate whitewater experience into a full day adventure or 24 Hours in Browns: our overnight experience, where participants camp riverside, under the stars. On our Numbers 1/2 day trip, you will navigate more intense class IV rapids on the most continuous whitewater rafting section of the Arkansas River. Last but not least, Rappel into the Gauntlet will appeal to the most adventurous, as visitors begin this full day excursion with a 75 foot rappel to a waiting raft, plunging into the Arkansas River’s steepest section and its thrilling class V rapids!
Best time to raft: May – September
Ages: 7 years old and up
Duration: 1/2 day, full day, multiday
Other Activities: Zipline, Via Ferrata, Rock Climbing, Horseback riding
Located 1.5 hours from Aspen. Activities:
Located 2.5 hours from Aspen. Activities:
Located 2.5 hours from Aspen. Activities:
Located 2 hrs and 45 min from Aspen. Activities: