Rafting Questions
When is the best time to go white water rafting in Colorado?
The white water rafting season in Colorado runs from early May through late September. In that time sections of rivers will open and close due to demand for water from various entities in the state. Almost all of the rivers in Colorado are dam controlled or partially fed by reservoir. This allows us to always have somewhere to run Colorado white water rafting trips, depending on what type of rafting is desired. The months of late May, June and July, however, will give you the most options.
FUN FACT: 61% of the people who rafting Pine Creek in 2010 went with AVA. There are 11 companies that run Pine Creek commercially, but none even come close to our experience!
Who can paddle white water?
Anyone can enjoy Colorado white water rafting! We have a section of river for all ages and abilities. Our guides are experienced, fun, and knowledgeable river runners who enjoy all levels of rafting. Discuss limitations with our knowledgeable reservation staff and they will place you on the best Colorado white water rafting trip to address your circumstances.
How do I judge the difficulty of a river?
The rivers and rapids have been classified to help you gauge their difficulty on a scale of I to VI; Class I means the easiest flat water and Class VI means unrunnable. This is an objective scale, but the ratings of a river can change depending on water levels and conditions. We also have a simple guide for the sections we run: Beginner and Intermediate sections are appropriate for all ages & abilities (Class I, II, & III). Advanced and Advanced+ sections are appropriate for active and aggressive lifestyles (Class IV & V). (See our Difficulty ratings & Ability ratings) Arkansas Valley Adventures has a Colorado white water rafting trip for everyone!
What if the weather is bad?
We run Colorado white water rafting trips rain or shine. Our simple philosophy is you’re going to get wet regardless of the weather. If it does rain, this is a great activity to do! We have gear such as wetsuits and splash jackets available free of charge for your use if Mother Nature is enhancing our day. Colorado traditionally does not have entire days of foul weather. The sun shines 300 days out of the year in Colorado. Either way, Arkansas Valley Adventures strives to make your Colorado white water rafting experience a good and memorable one.
Are pictures of my Colorado white water rafting adventure available?
Photographers will take your picture while you are on the river going through specific rapids. When you return to the AVA office, you will look at your digital pictures on TV and computer screens. You can decide if you would like to purchase printed pictures. You can also purchase your pictures on disc. There is no cost for your picture to be taken.
Is there a guide and can we all be on the same boat?
There is a guide in each boat on all of our Colorado white water rafting trips except for the Inflatable Kayak Trips on the Colorado River. If you are paddling an Inflatable Kayak, a guide will always accompany the trip in a raft or another Inflatable Kayak. Our rafts hold up to seven people on our intermediate and advanced sections, six people on our advanced + sections, ten to twelve people on our beginner sections, and five on Gore Canyon. Our Advanced+ sections and Gore Canyon have a safety kayaker on the trip for additional support. If you would like a custom ride with just your own group of four or five in a boat, our reservation staff will accommodate you but there is an additional charge and you must make a reservation for this special request.
