Current River Conditions
Colorado's Rivers
Current as of 6/15/2026 As we head into the 2026 rafting season, we’re excited about what’s shaping up to be a unique and adventure-filled year on the water. This summer, the Colorado River will offer the most consistent and recommended experience, with reliable flows and scenic, family-friendly conditions throughout the season. For those looking to turn up the excitement, we’re offering a full lineup of high-adventure options including inflatable kayaks (duckies), stand up paddleboards, and whitewater canoe trips, perfect for guests who want a more hands-on, technical ride. We’re also thrilled to be running trips on both Clear Creek and the Arkansas River, but it’s important to note that these rivers will likely have shorter seasons and more technical conditions than in past years, especially with changing snowmelt patterns influencing flow timing. Visit our 2026 Seasonal Rafting Guide for recommendations. Beyond rafting, our aerial adventures are in great shape this season, with ziplining and via ferrata experiences fully available in both Idaho Springs and Buena Vista. These activities are not impacted by river flows, making them a perfect alternative or add-on for guests looking to guarantee adventure no matter the water conditions.
- Upper Colorado River, Colorado: 660 cfs (The Upper Colorado sweet spot with great swimming opportunities, fun rapids, and ideal family rafting conditions)
- Colorado River, Moab, Utah: 2830 cfs (A relaxing float beneath the towering red rock cliffs of Fisher Towers with mild rapids and incredible scenery)
- Arkansas River for Browns Canyon: 443 cfs (Technical rafting with plenty of rapids and beautiful scenery through Browns Canyon National Monument)
- Arkansas River for the Gauntlet and the Numbers: 358 cfs (Technical rafting with plenty of rapids and beautiful scenery through Browns Canyon National Monument)
- Clear Creek for Gold Rush and Upper Clear Creek: 191 cfs (Technical and action-packed with rapids)
- Clear Creek for Lower Canyon: 191 cfs (Technical and action-packed with rapids)
- Blue River: 54 cfs (Low water)
The 2026 Rafting & Adventure Season
Our 2026 adventure trips are now open for booking! Book your trip as soon as you know your vacation dates to secure the best deals and availability. Be sure to check here for updates 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 options for your group.
Water Conditions & Trip Age Restrictions
Colorado River, Colorado
<p data-start="176" data-end="584">CFS <strong>660 CFS </strong>in Upper Colorado River, Colorado</p> <p data-start="176" data-end="584">Understanding the CFS range: Under 300 CFS - Low Water 300-600 CFS - A relaxing float through beautiful canyon scenery with mild rapids and excellent wildlife viewing <strong>600-1,000 CFS - The Upper Colorado sweet spot with great swimming opportunities, fun rapids, and ideal family rafting conditions</strong> 1,000-1,500 CFS - Prime rafting season featuring faster current, bigger waves, and exciting splashy sections</p> <p data-start="176" data-end="584">From our Kremmling, Colorado outpost, the <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/destinations/colorado-river/">Upper Colorado River</a> is the top rafting recommendation this season, offering the most consistent water levels and the most reliable overall experience. If you’re looking for the best conditions, this is the river we point guests to, perfect for families, first-timers, and groups who want to enjoy a full day on the water without worrying about fluctuating flows.</p> <p data-start="586" data-end="865">Our <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/destinations/colorado-river/">Upper Colorado River</a> <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/scenic-float-half-day/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Scenic Float Trips</a> are designed for a relaxed, enjoyable pace with incredible views of Colorado’s high country. You’ll have time to sunbathe, swim, and even jump from rocks when conditions allow, making it an ideal way to cool off and spend quality time on the river.</p> <p data-start="867" data-end="1180">For those wanting to take things a step further, the Colorado River also offers some of our most versatile adventure options. <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/inflatable-kayaks-half-day/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Inflatable Kayaks</a>, <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/stand-up-paddleboard-half-day/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stand Up Paddleboards</a>, and <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/whitewater-canoe-half-day/">Whitewater Canoe</a> trips give guests a more active, hands-on way to experience the water while still enjoying the same reliable conditions.</p>
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Colorado Scenic Float-Half Day
This wonderful Colorado River float trip is a gently flowing section that is inviting to all ages. You’ll encounter a few small rapids as the Colorado River winds through the Gore Range and Mountain Ranchland.
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Scenic Float Full Day
Experience the natural beauty of the Colorado River on our Full Day Upper Colorado Full Day Scenic Float trip! You’ll paddle a gently flowing section of the Colorado River that is inviting to all ages, encountering a few small class II rapids, as you wind through the Gore Range and mountain ranch land.
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Inflatable Kayaks Half Day
Looking to take charge of the river? On AVA’s Upper Colorado Inflatable Kayak ½ Day trip you can do just that! Whether you want to try something new or are seeking a little extra excitement or independence, the Upper Colorado Inflatable Kayak trip is perfect for you!
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Stand Up Paddleboard Half Day
Try the newest, most fun activity on the river - Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)! On this half-day trip, you'll SUP 5 miles down the Colorado River. You'll stand up or kneel on a large, surfboard-shaped board and steer with a long paddle as you navigate down the river. Prepare yourself for falling into the water, as it's highly likely that you'll go for a swim!
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Whitewater Canoe Half Day
Craving adventure and epic views? On AVA’s Upper Colorado Half Day Whitewater Canoe trip, you’ll paddle through scenic canyons and mild rapids for a hands-on, unforgettable river experience. The Upper Colorado Half Day Whitewater Canoe trip is perfect for those seeking freedom, fun, and a fresh perspective.
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
Colorado River, Moab, UT
<p data-start="176" data-end="584">CFS <strong>2830 CFS </strong>in Colorado River, Moab, UT</p> <p data-start="176" data-end="584">Understanding the CFS range: Under 300 CFS - Low Water <strong>1,500-3,000 CFS - A relaxing float beneath the towering red rock cliffs of Fisher Towers with mild rapids and incredible scenery</strong> 3,000-6,000 CFS - The Colorado River sweet spot. Expect fun splashy rapids, warm desert sunshine, and stunning canyon views 6,000-10,000 CFS - Peak rafting season with stronger current, bigger waves, and an exciting yet family-friendly adventure</p> <p data-start="0" data-end="363">From our <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/locations/moab-outpost/">Moab, Utah outpost</a>, the Colorado River offers one of the most scenic and versatile river experiences in the Southwest. Flowing beneath the iconic red rock towers of Fisher Towers, this stretch is known for its reliable conditions, stunning desert landscapes, and wide range of trip options, perfect for families, first-timers, and adventure seekers alike.</p> <p data-start="365" data-end="670">Our <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/fisher-towers-half-day/">Fisher Towers rafting trips</a> deliver a relaxed, scenic float with Class I–II rapids, giving you plenty of time to take in the views, spot wildlife, and enjoy the calm stretches of river. Whether you choose a <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/fisher-towers-half-day/">half-day</a> or <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/fisher-towers-full-day/">full-day</a> trip, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the Colorado River in Moab.</p> <p data-start="672" data-end="965">Looking for a more hands-on adventure? We also offer <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/inflatable-kayaks-moab-half-day/">inflatable kayaking</a>, <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/stand-up-paddleboard-moab-half-day/">stand up paddleboarding</a>, and <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/whitewater-canoe-moab-half-day/">whitewater canoe</a> trips along the same breathtaking section of river. These options let you take control of your own craft while still enjoying the approachable, beginner-friendly conditions.</p> <p data-start="967" data-end="1277" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">For those craving more adrenaline, our <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/westwater-canyon-full-day/">Westwater Canyon</a> trips take things up a notch with Class III–IV whitewater, featuring powerful rapids and a more remote canyon setting. From scenic floats to thrilling whitewater, <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/destinations/moab/">AVA Rafting & Zipline in Moab</a> has a Colorado River experience for every type of adventurer.</p>
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Fisher Towers Half-Day Rafting Trip | Colorado River, Moab
<p data-start="342" data-end="502">If you’re picturing the Colorado River winding through towering red rock canyons, calm stretches of water, and just enough splash to keep things fun. This is it.</p> <p data-start="504" data-end="684">The Fisher Towers section delivers the classic Moab river experience: warm desert sun, dramatic canyon walls, and gentle rapids that make it accessible for just about everyone.</p>
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Inflatable Kayaks Half Day | Moab, UT – Colorado River
Take control of your own river adventure with our Inflatable Kayaks Half Day trip in Moab, Utah! Paddle a stable, self-bailing inflatable kayak (also known as a “duckie”) down a scenic stretch of the Colorado River, navigating fun Class I–II rapids and calm sections surrounded by towering red rock canyons. This hands-on experience delivers the perfect mix of independence, excitement, and unforgettable desert scenery.
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Stand Up Paddleboard Half Day | Moab, UT
<p data-start="246" data-end="720">Experience the beauty of Moab from a fresh perspective on the water with our Stand Up Paddleboard Half Day adventure! Glide across the iconic Colorado River surrounded by towering red rock canyons and desert landscapes as you paddle 5 miles downstream. Whether you’re standing tall or kneeling for balance, this half-day trip offers both excitement and serenity with plenty of chances to dip into the cool river along the way.</p> <h2 data-section-id="1d7kyaf" data-start="722" data-end="749"></h2>
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Whitewater Canoe Half Day | Moab, UT
Get ready for a hands-on river adventure with our Whitewater Canoe Half Day trip in Moab, Utah! Paddle your own inflatable canoe down a scenic stretch of the Colorado River, navigating fun Class II–III rapids and calm sections through towering red rock canyons. This trip is perfect for those who want more excitement and control than a traditional raft while still enjoying the safety and guidance of expert river guides.
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Fisher Towers Full-Day Rafting | Colorado River, Moab
Take your time on the Colorado River with a full-day rafting trip through the stunning Fisher Towers section. This extended journey goes beyond the typical float covering more mileage, entering quieter canyon stretches, and giving you a deeper, more immersive experience in Moab’s red rock wilderness.
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Westwater Canyon Full-Day Whitewater Rafting Near Moab, UT
If you’re looking for the most exciting rafting near Moab, Westwater Canyon delivers. This iconic stretch of the Colorado River combines towering canyon scenery with powerful whitewater, creating one of the best single-day rafting trips in the American Southwest. Please reach out to info@coloradorafting.net for a quote.
Age Restrictions
- Fisher Towers Half & Full Day Rafting (Class II) – 2+ years old and least 30 lbs: OPEN
- Inflatable Kayaks – 10+ years (with adult); 14+ alone: OPEN
- SUPs: 13 + years: OPEN
- Westwater Canyon Rafting Trips – 12+ years old: OPEN
Water Conditions & Trip Age Restrictions
Arkansas River
CFS: <strong>443 CFS </strong>in Browns Canyon <strong>358 CFS </strong>in Pine Creek / Numbers Understanding the CFS range: Under 300 CFS - Low Water <strong>300-600 CFS - Technical rafting with plenty of rapids and beautiful scenery through Browns Canyon National Monument</strong> 600-1,000 CFS - The Arkansas River sweet spot with exciting Class III rapids and plenty of splash 1,000-1,500 CFS - Peak-season rafting featuring bigger waves, faster current, and nonstop adventure Trips on the Arkansas River deliver some of Colorado’s most iconic whitewater but this season, conditions will be more technical with a shorter window of peak flows than in past years. For guests looking for a more adventurous, fast-paced experience, the Arkansas is still an incredible option, especially during prime runoff. 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 <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/browns-canyon-half-day/">Browns Canyon</a> half-day, 3/4 day <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/browns-canyon-express/">Browns Canyon Express</a>, or the full day <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/browns-canyon-sizzler/">Browns Canyon Sizzler</a>, depending on your timeframe. Join us on our 1/2 day <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/the-numbers-half-day/">Numbers</a> trip or full day <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/the-gauntlet-pine-creek-numbers/">The Gauntlet-Pine Creek and the Numbers</a> 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! While river conditions can vary, our mountaintop zipline and via ferrata experiences are in excellent shape this year, offering a reliable and unforgettable way to get out in the mountains. If you’re looking to guarantee adventure, no matter the water levels, these aerial trips are a perfect choice. In Buena Vista, soar high above the Arkansas Valley on our <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/mountaintop-zipline-half-day/">Zipline</a>, featuring long lines, big views, and a true mountaintop experience. Or take on the <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/granite-via-ferrata/">Granite Via Ferrata</a>, where you’ll climb, traverse, and clip your way through rugged alpine terrain with incredible exposure and scenery.
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Browns Canyon 1/2 Day
Get ready to experience the best of Colorado on our Brown's Canyon half-day trip. This family-friendly adventure rushes you down the Arkansas River and through Browns Canyon National Monument on exciting yet mellower class III rapids.
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Browns Canyon Sizzler
The full-day Browns Canyon Sizzler represents the ultimate Colorado rafting experience! This trip offers a full day of classic white water rafting through class III rapids on the Arkansas River, complete with a riverside fajitas lunch.
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Browns Canyon Rafting + Via Ferrata
Excitement and scenery await on your Browns Canyon + Via Ferrata full-day adventure. Climb into the Rocky Mountains and rush the rapids of the mighty Arkansas River.
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Mountaintop Ziplining In Colorado – Half Day
Fly between towering old-growth pine trees and cliffs on our Mountaintop Zipline, a unique Colorado experience fun for all ages. This course may be the most incredible way to see the Arkansas River valley as you experience Colorado from a unique vantage point.
Age Restrictions
- Browns Canyon 1/2 Day, 3/4 Day Express, and Full Day Sizzler (class III)– 7+ years: OPEN
- Numbers 1/2 Day (Class IV) – OPEN
- The Gauntlet (Class IV & V) Full Day – OPEN
Water Conditions & Trip Age Restrictions
Clear Creek
CFS: <strong>191 CFS </strong>in Gold Rush and Upper Clear Creek <strong>191 CFS </strong>in Lower Canyon Understanding the CFS range: Under 150 CFS - Low Water <strong>150-300 CFS - Technical and action-packed with rapids</strong> 300-500 CFS - The sweet spot for Clear Creek rafting with great water conditions 500-700 CFS - Big waves, continuous rapids, and peak runoff excitement Clear Creek is a fast-moving, narrow river just 30 minutes from Denver in Idaho Springs, offering one of the most convenient and action-packed whitewater experiences in the state. This season, expect a shorter window of peak conditions and a more technical ride than in past years, making Clear Creek a great option for guests looking for a quick, high-energy adventure close to the city. Our <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/clear-creek-gold-rush/">Gold Rush</a> trip features Class III rapids in a 1/3-day format, making it a great introduction to whitewater for families and first-time rafters who still want plenty of excitement without committing to a full day on the river. Looking for a step up? The <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/upper-clear-creek/">Upper Clear Creek</a> delivers a more technical and demanding ride, with Class III–IV rapids packed into a fast-paced stretch of river. This section is ideal for adventurous guests looking for a more challenging, high-adrenaline experience For those ready to take it up another notch, the <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/the-lower-canyon-on-clear-creek/">Lower Canyon</a> section offers a more continuous Class III experience, with tighter rapids and a faster pace, perfect for guests who want a bit more action while still staying in a half-day timeframe. And if you’re looking to round out your day, our aerial experiences in Idaho Springs are a perfect addition. The <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/cliffside-zipline-half-day/">Cliffside Zipline</a> and <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/mount-blue-sky-via-ferrata/">Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata</a> are both running strong this season, offering a reliable, high-adrenaline experience that pairs perfectly with your rafting trip or stands on its own.
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Gold Rush Clear Creek Rafting Adventure
Splash down the Clear Creek mining valley on our 1/3 day Gold Rush trip. Just a short half-hour trip from Denver, this family-friendly rafting adventure offers a fun outdoor adventure that everyone in your group will enjoy.
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Gold Rush Rafting+ Zipline
Join us on one of our best family trips, and experience Colorado fun on the river and in the air. From our Idaho Springs outpost, paddle Clear Creek's best family-friendly whitewater and soar through the trees on our cliffside zipline course.
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Upper Clear Creek Half Day Rafting Trip
Our Upper Clear Creek adventure will keep your paddle moving and your heart pounding as you crash through class IV rapids. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, and keep your eyes peeled for big horn sheep, otters, and other native wildlife that are commonly spotted on many of our Colorado whitewater rafting trips.
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Cliffside Zipline Half Day
<p class="isSelectedEnd">Experience one of the most unique zipline adventures near Denver on our Cliffside Zipline Course in Idaho Springs. Your adventure begins in historic downtown Idaho Springs before boarding our signature Safari Truck for a scenic ride up the mountain. From there, you'll soar across six exhilarating ziplines built directly into the rugged Rocky Mountain landscape above Chicago Creek.</p> As you travel from platform to platform, you'll fly past towering granite cliffs, forested slopes, and sweeping mountain views while tackling exciting aerial features including a hanging bridge, log cross, jungle bridge, and dual race line. This half-day adventure combines adrenaline, incredible scenery, and family-friendly fun, making it the perfect Colorado mountain experience for first-time zipliners and thrill seekers alike.
Age Restrictions Gold Rush 1/3 Day (Class III) – 6+ years, 50 lb. minimum: OPEN Upper Clear Creek 1/2 Day (Class IV) – 15+ years: OPEN Lower Canyon (Class IV-V) - OPEN
Water Conditions & Trip Age Restrictions
Blue River
CFS: <strong>54 CFS </strong>in Blue River Understanding the CFS range: <strong>Under 300 CFS - Low Water</strong> 300-600 CFS - A scenic mountain rafting trip with fun Class II-III rapids 600-1,000 CFS - The Blue River's sweet spot with consistent whitewater and plenty of excitement 1,000-1,500 CFS - Big waves, fast current, and peak Summit County rafting 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! <a href="https://www.coloradorafting.net/trips/blue-river-express/">The Blue River Express</a> 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
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Blue River Express White Water Rafting Trip
Join AVA on the Blue River on this 1/3-day family-friendly rafting trip! Splash through class II-III rapids and marvel at the scenery around you as you paddle down one of Colorado's lesser-known yet quintessential rivers.
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Inflatable Kayaks Half Day
Looking to take charge of the river? On AVA’s Upper Colorado Inflatable Kayak ½ Day trip you can do just that! Whether you want to try something new or are seeking a little extra excitement or independence, the Upper Colorado Inflatable Kayak trip is perfect for you!
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Walk & Wade Fly Fishing Trip
Explore the incredible waters of the Upper Colorado River with a knowledgeable fishing guide. It doesn't matter if it's your first-time fishing or you're a seasoned angler, this trip is fit for all levels of experience.
Age Restrictions
- Blue River Express 1/3 Day (class II-III) – 8+ years
Gift an Adventure trip in the heart of the Colorado Rockies!
If you are looking for the perfect last minute gift, look no further than AVA! Price out your whole trip and choose gift card at checkout.
Is Whitewater Rafting Safe?
Glossary of Terms
CFS: cubic feet per second
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
Gradient
The steepness of the river bed. Expressed in feet/mile.
Hydraulics
Water that is circulating over top of itself. Can often result in holes and breaking waves.
Holes
Water flowing over a rock or other obstruction that creates a void that circulates water rather than allowing it to flow downstream.
Rapids
Water that is flowing over an obstruction that leads to breaking waves. Rapids are typically formed by rocks below the surface of the water.
Eddies
Sections of still water next to shore that are used by raft guides to pull over and take breaks.
Strainer
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.