Current River Conditions
Colorado's Rivers
Current as of 9/17/2024
We are still open for scenic float trips in Kremmling, as well as aerial adventures in Idaho Springs! Through October, join us for rafting, inflatable kayaking, ziplining, and Via Ferrata trips.
We keep this page updated with conditions as best as possible, but please call our team if you need immediate clarification.
Fly into fall
Explore Fall Aerials
Experience Colorado’s fall foliage from an exciting new angle with a zipline or Via Ferrata trip. Located at our Idaho Springs outpost, these adventures are accessible no matter where your Colorado fall adventures take you. Book a fall a trip now through the end of October!
The 2024 Rafting Season
Check here throughout the season for updates on on the best rafting trips for your crew based on CFS (Cubic Feet per Second) and flow rates. These tips can help you learn more about Colorado’s rivers, rafting conditions, and when to plan your Rocky Mountain whitewater trip.
All TripsWater Conditions & Trip Age Restrictions
Colorado River
CFS
1150
The Colorado River is still running at normal water levels, with opportunities for rafting, stand up paddleboarding, inflatable kayaking, and fly-fishing.
From our Kremmling, Colorado outpost, our Upper Colorado River Scenic Float Trips provide a chance to cool down and relax amidst the beautiful scenery of the Colorado River. These are the best trips to tailor to your specific group, with younger kids, adults, and grandparents enjoying their day out on the river.
On the Upper Colorado River, you’ll have the opportunity to sunbathe, swim, and even leap from jump rock if water levels permit. For those looking for a unique experience or to elevate the adventure, try paddling one of our Inflatable Kayaks or Stand Up Paddleboards!
Fall is also the perfect time to try out a Fly- Fishing trip! Our Walk & Wade and float fishing trips on the Upper Colorado River offer the opportunity to learn fly-fishing tips and tricks from one of our experienced guides, with current water levels and temperatures making for great catches.
Age Restrictions
- Half & Full Day Scenic Float (Class II) – 2+ years old and least 30 lbs: OPEN
- Inflatable Kayaks – 10+ years (with adult); 14+ alone: OPEN
- SUPs: 13 + years: OPEN
- Colorado River Fly-Fishing trips (Walk & Wade and Overnight): OPEN
Water Conditions & Trip Age Restrictions
Arkansas River
CFS
489 CFS in Browns Canyon
258 CFS in Pine Creek / Numbers
Thank you to everyone who joined us on the Arkansas River this season! All Arkansas River trips are closed for the season and we look forward to next year’s adventures.
Our mellower Browns Canyon trips on the Arkansas River offer a milder experience for all members of the family, with class III whitewater rafting through the majestic granite walls of Browns Canyon National Monument. Choose from our Browns Canyon half-day, 3/4 day Browns Canyon Express, or the full day Browns Canyon Sizzler, depending on your timeframe.
Join us on our 1/2 day Numbers trip or full day The Gauntlet-Pine Creek and the Numbers for a wilder ride on class III-V rapids. These two trips offer this same this stunning scenery, while stepping up the excitement.
With panoramic views of the 14,000+ Collegiate Peaks Mountain Range and the Arkansas River valley, all Arkansas River trips provide plenty of opportunities to experience some of Colorado’s most beautiful scenery. Keep your eyes peeled, as you may even spot wildlife!
Age Restrictions
- Browns Canyon 1/2 Day, 3/4 Day Express, and Full Day Sizzler (class III)– 7+ years: CLOSED
- Numbers 1/2 Day (Class IV) – 15+ years: CLOSED
- The Gauntlet (Class IV & V) Full Day – 15+ years: CLOSED
Water Conditions & Trip Age Restrictions
Clear Creek
Clear Creek is closed for the season due to low water levels. Thank you to everyone who joined us on a rafting trip this year! We can’t wait to welcome you back next summer.
Clear Creek is a fast moving narrow river conveniently located just a half hour from Denver. Despite being close to Colorado’s largest city, you are surrounded by beautiful national forest in the river valley. Gold Rush is a class III rafting trip that lasts about 1/3 of a day. This is a great trip for families and those looking to enjoy whitewater and paddling but don’t want to take on large challenging waves.
Upper Clear Creek is the class IV section of river that is great for those groups who want to work together and paddle hard through some large splashy waves. Lower Canyon is the class V section of clear creek that moves very fast through large waves. We recommend this trip for those looking to paddle long and hard.
Age Restrictions
Gold Rush 1/3 Day (Class III) – 6+ years, 50 lb. minimum: CLOSED
Upper Clear Creek 1/2 Day (Class IV) – 15+ years: CLOSED
Lower Canyon (Class IV-V) – 15+ years: CLOSED
Water Conditions & Trip Age Restrictions
Blue River
CFS
The Blue River is no longer running for this season. Due to lowered water levels earlier in the season, the Blue River ran its last trips the weekend of 7/13/24
The Blue River is a beautiful river that runs north of Breckenridge and offers great whitewater in the heart of Summit County. This river offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and gore range. Because the Blue River is fed by water directly from Lake Dillon in the mountains, conditions must be absolutely perfect for it to be runnable; this year is only the second time in 4 years that we have been lucky enough to raft this river!
The Blue River Express is a great trip for those looking to get a little wet, paddle through some class III rapids, and enjoy stunning scenery the entire way. This is a quick trip that lasts about 1/3 of a day, so you will have plenty of time to pair it with another activity.
BLUE RIVER & NEARBY TRIPS
Age Restrictions
- Blue River Express 1/3 Day (class II-III) – 8+ years: CLOSED
Is Whitewater Rafting Safe?
Glossary of Terms
The calculation for CFS is river width x depth x speed (flow and gradient). Each river has a number of sections where readings for the CFS are taken, and 1 section of a river may have a different CFS than another section of the same river. Every river is different, so what may be a high CFS on one river might be completely normal on another. Check out the latest CFS for Colorado’s Rivers, as well as a whether it’s running low, high or runnable, on Mountain Buzz.
Snowpack is the measurement of snow that is compared over previous years. Many of Colorado’s rivers rely on the winter’s snow for water, which is why we talk about snowpack pretty often when we are talking about water levels. Check out Colorado’s snowpack on from the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
The steepness of the river bed. Expressed in feet/mile.
Water that is circulating over top of itself. Can often result in holes and breaking waves.
Water flowing over a rock or other obstruction that creates a void that circulates water rather than allowing it to flow downstream.
Water that is flowing over an obstruction that leads to breaking waves. Rapids are typically formed by rocks below the surface of the water.
Sections of still water next to shore that are used by raft guides to pull over and take breaks.
A pile of sticks, branches and debris that have created an obstruction that only allows small items and limited amounts of water to pass through.
Aspen
Aspen, CO
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.
Breckenridge
Breckenridge, CO 80424
The magic of summer in the mountains comes alive in Breckenridge, Colorado. Located within Summit County, Breckenridge offers skiing and snowboarding, alongside plenty of opportunities for winter sports, yet the temperate summer weather and high alpine environment transform Breckenridge into a mecca for summer adventure. Breckenridge, Colorado is the place to visit if you are looking for a hip mountain town with access to the best outdoor adventures the Colorado mountains have to offer. Best of all, you’ll find Whitewater Rafting trips near Breckenridge on 4 different rivers!
In summer, Breckenridge hosts several festivals, a vibrant downtown arts scene, and numerous high alpine adventures. Its downtown Main Street includes numerous restaurants, bars, and shops, and people flock from across Summit County and Colorado to try Breckenridge’s diverse food scene. The town also offers cultural and arts opportunities, including open galleries, arts classes, and multiple museums. Whether you’re looking to explore the mountains, the town’s rich history, or its unique food scene, Breckenridge has a plethora of diverse adventure opportunities for all!
Buena Vista
Buena Vista, CO 81211
Located at the base of the Collegiate Peaks within the Sawatch Mountain Range, Buena Vista, Colorado sits at almost 8,000 feet in elevation, with more 14ers than in any other area in Colorado. The area also hosts the Continental Divide to the east, and the Arkansas River flows through the town, providing opportunities for both mountain and river adventures.
The town of Buena Vista dates back to 1880 and originally gained prominence for its mining and railroad industries. Today, many people visit Buena Vista for its namesake – to take in its “Beautiful views” and experience some of Colorado’s best outdoors. The area offers hiking, biking, Whitewater Rafting, Horseback Riding, Camping, and numerous other opportunities to explore the outdoors. Buena Vista is also well known for its local hot springs, which are believed to have therapeutic and even medicinal qualities!
Our AVA outpost is located just 15 minutes north of Buena Vista, providing easy access to the best of the area’s outdoor adventures.
Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, CO
Colorado Springs has long been known as a “must-see” on Colorado travelers’ lists – and not just for all the great outdoor adventure and whitewater rafting near Colorado Springs. Located East of the Pike National Forest, near Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, Old Colorado City, Cave of the Winds among other notable attractions, the area offers numerous opportunities to hike and explore the outdoors of central Colorado.
Pike’s Peak is one of Colorado’s many 14ers, yet one of the most accessible, as visitors can hike, bike, or drive to the top, and the National Landmark of Garden of the Gods provides stunning views of the area’s rock formations and landmarks, framing Pikes Peak in the background. National Geographic also notes Colorado Spring’s Broadmoor Seven Falls on their list of international waterfalls for their stunning scenery and views.
As Colorado’s second largest city and home to three colleges, Colorado Springs also hosts historical and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, the Money Museum or the The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. Colorado Springs also headquarters the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Center and offers tours for the public.
Denver
Denver, CO
Denver, Colorado provides the perfect opportunity to explore cultural attractions, markets, festivals, museums, and urban excitement, while maintaining easy access to the best of Colorado’s outdoors. The Mile High City offers opportunities to listen to live music and enjoy food from diverse restaurants and breweries. Cheer for the Rockies at Coors Field, explore the 16th Street Mall and Union Station, check out the Denver Botanic Gardens, and relax at one of the city’s numerous parks and green areas. The nearby area also includes Colorado’s iconic Red Rocks amphitheater, as well as Golden, Colorado: Colorado’s first capital and the home of Coors brewing.
Denver’s central location in Colorado also makes it easy to access mountain adventures without excessive travel time. Drive 30 minutes from the city, and you will find opportunities for Whitewater Rafting, biking, hiking, and wildlife spotting. Denver is the perfect vacation for those wanting to experience the best of a vibrant city yet still explore Colorado’s natural beauty and scenery.
Estes Park
Estes Park, CO
Surrounded by Rocky Mountain National Park and only an hour and a half outside of Denver, Estes Park boasts a variety of outdoor activities and attractions with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. Most notably, Rocky Mountain National Park offers hiking and wildlife spotting, and visitors can drive the Trail Ridge Road from Estes to Grand Lake with views of the park and the Continental Divide Trail. In the warmer months, opportunities also abound for Whitewater Rafting, Rock Climbing, and Stand-up Paddleboarding.
The town of Estes additionally hosts Lake Estes, with opportunities for boating, fishing, or relaxing. After your outdoor adventure, be sure to check out one of Estes’s restaurants, breweries, or distilleries, or visit a festival or outdoor concert.
Glenwood Springs
Glenwood Springs, CO
Located at the intersection of the Roaring Fork and Colorado Rivers, Glenwood Springs is known for its connection to water and is said to host the world’s largest natural medicinal hot sulfur springs pool. Constructed in 1890, Glenwood became known as the “Spa in the Rockies” and attracted the likes of Presidents Theodore Roosevelt, William Taft, infamous gangster Al Capone and world famous “Doc” Holiday.
Glenwood Springs is also close to the starting point of many popular hiking trails like Hanging Lake and Grizzly Creek. The areas colorful history and scenic beauty lure millions of travelers from all over the world each year. The town also hosts the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue and the Riviera Supper Club & Piano Bar, which provide opportunities for comedy and entertainment alongside stellar restaurants and breweries.
Idaho Springs
Idaho Springs, CO
Idaho Springs, located just 30 minutes from Denver and within an hour of Boulder, Summit County and Winter Park, is home to one of our AVA outposts! Colorado’s first gold was discovered here, and it is said that the Gold Rush originated in Idaho Springs. Visitors can explore the areas rich history through tours of the Argo Mill and Tunnel and Phoenix Gold Mine and relax in the notable Indian Hot Springs. The town also boasts several unique and local restaurants you will want to check out after your outdoor adventure!
The Idaho Springs area offers the best Whitewater Rafting near Denver on the Clear Creek, and our outpost includes exciting cliffside Zipline and Via Ferrata tours. The area’s location near Mount Evans, one of Colorado’s numerous 14ers, offers opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting, and visitors can drive to the summit via the Mount Evans Scenic Byway.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park, CO
Rocky Mountain National Park encompasses some of the nation’s best peaks, lakes, wildflowers, reservoirs, and wildlife and includes a portion of the Continental Divide Trail. With over 300 miles of trail systems, Rocky Mountain National Park has incredible hikes for all levels from flatter scenic walks to multi-day back packing trips. Landscapes in the park vary greatly and include towering mountains, alpine tundra, crystal clear lakes, meadows, and evergreens, and provide the ecosystem for multiple endangered species.
Rocky Mountain National Park offers wilderness camping under the stars, and there are additional accommodations in the surrounding communities of Grand Lake and Estes Park. Although hiking may be the most common past time, it is not the only adventure you can find in the Rocky Mountain National Park area. From our Kremmling outpost, 40 minutes from the park, we offer Whitewater Rafting and Fly Fishing trips on the scenic Upper Colorado River, along with SUP and Inflatable Kayak trips and rentals.
Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs may be known for its powder and skiing opportunities, but it offers plenty of outdoor activities throughout the year! Nestled at 7,000 feet elevation, it is surrounded by Mount Werner, Sunshine Peak, Storm Peak, Thunderhead Peak, Pioneer Ridge and Christie Peak.
With the Yampa River running through town, Steamboat Lake State Park, and Pearl Lake State Park, Steamboat boasts water activities in addition to mountain fun. Visitors can tube, fish, and boat, nearby rivers offer plenty of opportunities for Whitewater Rafting. The town also hosts geothermal hot springs for relaxing after your outdoor adventure.
Vail
Vail
Locals and guests in this quaint little town are spoiled with gorgeous surroundings and all the amenities of a bigger city. Winter brings skiing and boarding, yet summer offers endless sunny days and a chance to explore Colorado’s mountains and great outdoors. The White River National Forest and Gore Range surround the area, creating opportunities for hiking, biking and exploring the area’s trails.
The town of Vail has much to offer itself, including a variety of lodging and dining options, along with arts and culture opportunities. Catch a show at the outdoor Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, check out Vail’s festival schedule, or stroll around the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens!
Buena Vista
40671 US-24
Buena Vista, CO 81211
If using Google Maps, ‘US 24 North’ is incorrect and will take you 10 miles south of us. Type in the address exactly as listed above to ensure correct directions.
On the hunt for a true mountain excursion? Head to Buena Vista, Colorado to raft through a national monument on our Brown’s Canyon 1/2 day trip, fly above the Arkansas River Valley on our Mountaintop Zipline, or Rock Climb the majestic Granite Gorge Cliffs, where views of the majestic Collegiate Peaks will take your breath away.
AVA’s Buena Vista Outpost is located just over an hour from Summit County and under two and a half hours from Denver, Colorado.
Idaho Springs
431 Chicago Creek Road
Idaho Springs, CO 80452
Our Idaho Springs outpost offers beginner to advanced levels of whitewater rafting on Clear Creek, soar among the treetops on our Cliffside Zipline, or try our Via Ferrata course for an introduction to mountaineering. Enjoy an afternoon in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains and catch some incredible sights of historic Idaho Springs- the location of Colorado’s first gold discovery!
Our Idaho Springs outpost is conveniently located near Denver, just 30 minutes west of downtown on I-70, and less than an hour from Summit County.
Kremmling
1606 Park Avenue
Kremmling, CO 80459
Kremmling is the perfect destination for families looking for a mountain getaway. Our Upper Colorado River Scenic Float rafting trip welcomes adventurers as young as 2 years old on a half day or full day adventure on mellow Class II rapids. While in Kremmling, be sure to also try one of our Fly Fishing excursions or kick up dirt on our UTV Rentals!
You will find our Kremmling outpost just 45 minutes from Summit County and just under two hours from Denver.
Arkansas River
40671 US-24
Buena Vista, CO 81211
The Arkansas River in Colorado begins in the Sawatch Range near Leadville and Buena Vista and joins the Mississippi River in Arkansas. The Arkansas River is one of Colorado’s most notable natural landmarks and waterways and offers some of North America’s most popular whitewater stretches. Here you’ll find everything from the wild and challenging section of Pine Creek near Granite, CO, to the thrilling and scenic family-friendly rapids of Browns Canyon near Buena Vista, to the towering rock walls of the Royal Gorge near Cañon City. With every class of whitewater available and great Colorado rafting for families with young kids, groups and adrenaline junkies, Arkansas River rafting truly has something for everyone.
Blue River
Blue River Rafting, Silverthorne Colorado
The Blue River, a tributary of the mighty Colorado River, is a lesser-known Colorado gem. Beginning its journey in the mountains near Breckenridge and Frisco, it courses through high alpine scenery, rich green forests, and expansive ranchlands before merging with the Colorado River. Its crystal-clear waters are home to abundant trout, making it a paradise for fly-fishing enthusiasts, and beyond its banks, the Blue River Trail welcomes hikers and bikers to experience the surrounding beauty up-close.
The Blue River’s flow also powers recreational activities such as whitewater rafting and kayaking, offering thrilling ways to appreciate its beauty. Its stretch near Silverthorne, Colorado offers the closest Rafting to Breckenridge, Keystone and Frisco with incredible scenery of the Gore Range mountains. If you are visiting central Colorado, consider a Blue River rafting trip for an exciting whitewater excursion perfect for families, first-timers and those looking for a shorter adventure.
Clear Creek
Clear Creek
Clear Creek runs from Loveland Pass through Golden and The Front Range and eventually joins up with the South Platte River. This river flows through Clear Creek Canyon in the Rocky Mountains directly west of Denver, following alongside I-70 and through the town of Idaho Springs, where the first gold was found in the late 1850s during the Colorado gold rush.
Located in an old mining valley in the Colorado Rockies, its proximity to Denver, Boulder, Summit County and Winter Park makes Clear Creek rafting an easily accessible favorite for locals and travelers alike. Conveniently located only 30 minutes from Denver, our Idaho Springs outpost allows easy access to one of Colorado’s most well known rivers. Clear Creek runs through Idaho Spring’s historic mining valley, providing opportunities for scenic views and potential wildlife spotting, while flowing through fun and floaty rapids.
Colorado River
Kremmling, Colorado
The Colorado River, a spectacular force of nature, is the lifeblood of the American West. Meandering over 1,450 miles from the snowy peaks of the Rocky Mountains all the way to the deserts of Mexico, this river passes through five U.S. states and eleven National Parks. As one of the longest rivers in the United States, it has etched some of the world’s most awe-inspiring features into the earth, including the Grand Canyon.
Along its course, the Colorado River represents a vital water source for millions of people and agricultural areas, as well as supports a rich diversity of wildlife. It also serves as a recreational paradise, offering world-class opportunities for white-water Rafting, Fishing, and Camping, and its rich and enduring history makes the Colorado River a crucial aspect of the landscape of the western United States.
The Colorado River offers rafting numerous opportunities for Whitewater Rafting amidst the backdrop of stunning scenery. From fun float trips appropriate for ages 2 and up to challenging, pulse-pounding rides, the Colorado River has river trips for everyone. Join AVA in Kremmling, Colorado for a trip down this mighty river, where the area’s mellower waters make it the perfect destination for river adventure, with activities including Rafting, Fly-Fishing, Kayaking, and Stand-Up Paddleboarding.