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Whitewater Rafting Colorado

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FIND YOUR COLORADO RAFTING ADVENTURE

AVA offers a range of rafting adventures in multiple locations, from beginner floats to the biggest Class V thrills. Whether you’re interested in laid back and scenic or high adrenaline thrills; a couple hours on the water or a couple days; or you’re hoping to combine several different activities with your Colorado white water rafting trip, AVA can provide an adventure of a lifetime. Let us find the perfect white water rafting trip in Colorado for your group, whether you’re bringing grandma and the grandkids or putting together an activity for a bachelor party!

OUR TRENDING WHITEWATER RAFTING TRIPS

BROWNS CANYON 1/2 DAY
LOCATION: Buena Vista, CO VIEW MAP
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

SCENIC 1/2 DAY FLOAT TRIP
LOCATION: Kremmling, CO VIEW MAP
ACTIVITIES: Whitewater Rafting Colorado
DURATION: 1/2 Day
DIFFICULTY: Level 2
RIVER RATING: Class II
MINIMUM AGE: 2 years old
PRICE: from $89 Ages 13+
from $64 Ages 2-12

THE NUMBERS 1/2 DAY
LOCATION: Buena Vista, CO VIEW MAP
ACTIVITIES: Whitewater Rafting Colorado
DURATION: 1/2 Day
DIFFICULTY: Level 5
RIVER RATING: Class IV
MINIMUM AGE: 15 years old
PRICE: from $104 Ages 15+
(15yrs is the minimum age for this trip)

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What an AVA Whitewater Rafting Adventure Looks Like

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Why choose AVA & What to Expect on your Whitewater Rafting Adventure

Expert Guides = Safe Adventures

For 25 years, AVA has set the industry standard for safety and expertise in outdoor adventure. Our expertly-trained guides have far exceeded the minimum legal requirements and industry standards for experience and training before they ever lead our guests on an adventure. Our CPR + First Aid certified guides are extensively trained in emergency preparedness, with expert-curated first aid kits and rescue hardware on every trip. We use high-quality and frequently inspected safety equipment for all guests. Our highly qualified guides are trained to anticipate and avoid outdoor emergencies, making them the safest part of your adventure. Safety is a core value at AVA Rafting, where every aspect of our business is focused on ensuring your safety.

Experience Matters: 25 Years of Colorado Adventure

For over 25 years, AVA Rafting & Zipline has been a trusted provider of premier outdoor adventures in Colorado. With a commitment to safety, customer service, and environmental sustainability, AVA has earned numerous awards and recognitions like the Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence three years back-to-back, Best Whitewater Guide in Elevation Outdoor's Best of the Rockies, and Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice two years running. 25 years of experience operating thrilling adventures on Colorado's rivers means we have set the industry standard for safety, professionalism, outdoor expertise and guest service.

Included Gear + Packing List

AVA rafting trips provide you with a wetsuit, splash jacket, life jacket, paddle, helmet, and the time of your life. We'll handle the details -- just be sure to bring appropriate footwear, like something you don't mind getting wet that would stay on your feet if you did a cannonball into a pool, quick-drying clothing like fleece, waterproof sunscreen, sunglass that will stay securely attached or that you don't mind donating to the river, and a towel to dry off with. Our retail shop at your outpost can help out if you forget something at home. If you have any more questions about what to bring or expect on your rafting adventure, give us a call at 1-877-RAFTING

Our Watches are set to Adventure

At AVA, we pride ourselves on punctuality, so we ask that you arrive at your outpost 15 minutes before your scheduled trip time. If you are late (we've all been there), you will be put on the next available trip or if you can't make that trip, receive an open credit worth 85% of the total cost of your adventure, valid for the current season only. Once you arrive, our friendly staff will guide you through the check-in process, and your trip leader will give you all the necessary information to ensure a safe and exciting adventure. Don't forget to sign your liability waiver ahead of time, double-check your confirmation to ensure you're headed to the right location, and check drive times and traffic conditions prior to your trip. We'll see you soon!

Photo Packages & Retail

During your trip, our professional photographers will be waiting for you at the most epic moments capturing the best thrills from your rafting adventure so the memories can last a lifetime. After your trip, you’ll hop back on the bus and head back to your AVA outpost, where your guides will collect and wash your gear. At the outpost, you can head inside and check out the photos of your trip. You can buy your photos and show them off online right away! Don’t forget to pick up some stylish AVA Rafting & Zipline swag to take home! Our outposts are stocked with lots of souvenirs for you to choose from and rafting trip essentials just in case you left anything at home. If you had a great time and want to let your guides know, we suggested a pat on the back, but they let us know that gratuities are preferred and highly appreciated!

Live the AVA Difference

AVA Rafting & Zipline is committed to providing first-class guest service from the moment you plan out your trip to the moment you step off your raft with a smile on your face. Our friendly reservation agents are here to answer any questions you may have and help you select the best trip for your interests and skill level. From there, AVA's expert guides will ensure you feel welcome and prepared for your adventure as they introduce themselves long before your trip begins, and teach you how to hold your paddle, go over the commands used to navigate, and any swimming techniques you may need to know if you decide to take a quick dip in the river. Throughout your trip, guides focus on safety, education, and fun, with a dedication to providing an exceptional experience for every guest.

Choosing A Colorado Whitewater Rafting Trip

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Whitewater 101: Tips for Choosing Your Colorado River

Get ready to experience the ultimate Colorado whitewater rafting adventure with AVA Rafting! We know there’s a lot to consider when choosing the perfect river for your rafting trip, and it may be uncharted rapids! First-timer or seasoned pro, we’re here to help you navigate it all!

Looking for the best rafting river near you? Or maybe you’re wondering which river is perfect for rafting with the kiddos? Look no further! AVA Rafting operates on some of Colorado’s most iconic rivers, including the Arkansas, Colorado, and Clear Creek.

Each of our rivers has a unique personality, featuring thrilling half-day and full-day options, overnight trips, Class II – V rapids, and recommended experience levels. Plus, our outposts are conveniently located just 1 to 2 hours from Colorado’s top destinations, so you can spend more time on the river and less time on the road!

Check out our river selection guide and find the perfect Colorado whitewater rafting trip for you, your group, or your family. And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to give us a call and chat with our experienced trip reservation crew. We’re here to help you plan the adventure of a lifetime!

AVA Rafting Whitewater River Guide

Colorado's Whitewater Rivers

The best whitewater rafting rivers in Colorado are only 1-2 hours from Denver! Clear Creek, located 40 minutes from Denver, in Idaho Springs, offers beautiful Rocky Mountain views while offering mild to wild class II-V rapids. Our trips on Clear Creek offer very mild, relaxing floats to exhilarating and technical class V rapids! Next up is the Arkansas River. Dubbed "The Ark", we operate trips on this River from our Buena Vista outpost, 2 hours from Denver. With every class of whitewater available the Ark is perfect for families with young kids, groups, and adrenaline junkies alike. If you're seeking a mellow rafting experience, join us in Kremmling, 2 hours west of Denver, for a trip down the Colorado River. Here, you can enjoy calm waters with scenic floats, paddleboarding, fly-fishing tours, and more! Last but certainly not least, join us on the Blue River in Silverthorne! Here you can find a fun whitewater excursion perfect for families, first-timers, and those looking for a shorter adventure.

River Classes + Difficulty Levels

Whitewater rapids are classified from I to V based on their difficulty level. Class I is gentle and easy, while class V is extremely difficult and can be dangerous. Classes II and III are moderate with some waves and obstacles, while class IV has more significant drops and challenges. Our rafting adventures are classified into six physical levels which you will see when searching for trips. Levels 1 and 2 are suitable for all ages and require little to no physical exertion. Level 3 requires some physical exertion and has age minimums of 5-10 years. Level 4 requires more physical exertion and has age minimums of 7-12 years. Level 5 is more challenging and has age minimums of 12-15 years. Level 6 is the most intense and requires guests to be physically active with a minimum age of 15 years. If at any time you are confused when booking a trip please call one of our knowledgeable staff at 1-877-RAFTING and we will be sure you find your ideal adventure!

Destinations

AVA Rafting operates three primary outposts: Idaho Springs, Kremmling, and Buena Vista - each providing easy access to some of Colorado's best whitewater rafting. Our Idaho Springs outpost is just 40 minutes from Denver, making it a great option for those looking for a quick escape from the city with exciting rafting on Clear Creek. Our Kremmling outpost is located 2 hours west of Denver offering a mellow rafting experience, while our Buena Vista outpost is 2 hours southwest and offers every level of rafting you could imagine! AVA's outposts are centrally located and easily accessible so whether you're headed to Denver, Aspen, Vail, Steamboat, Estes Park, CO Springs, or any one of Colorado's beautiful destinations, you're never more than a day trip away from an AVA adventure.

Fine Tune Your Adventure

There are several factors to consider when booking an adventure with AVA beyond just the river and difficulty level. We offer various trip durations, ranging from half-day to multi-day camping experiences, and a variety of adventure packages, such as ziplining, Via Ferrata, and rock climbing to complement your rafting experience! Bringing the kiddos? AVA offers special family-friendly rafting trips and has specific age minimums for each level of rapids. We offer great group discounts so everyone can get in on the adventure! If you're not sure which trip to choose, we provide detailed trip descriptions and helpful videos throughout our site to help you make an informed decision. You can also call us any time at 1-877-RAFTING to book your trip or get recommendations on what will best fit your needs! At AVA, our commitment to safety, the highest quality equipment, and expert guides ensure that you will have a safe and unforgettable rafting adventure!

Rivers Information + Trips

Arkansas River Info & Whitewater Rafting Trips

The Arkansas River is conveniently located in Central Colorado, with whitewater rafting tours typically launching out of our beautiful Buena Vista outpost. The Arkansas River is one of Colorado's most famous whitewater rafting destinations, hosting the most popular stretch of water in the United states that flows through the iconic Browns Canyon National Monument. The Arkansas is dam controlled, making it a "bit" more predictable year after year, and it accommodates a diversity if experience levels and epic overnight adventures.

VIEW ARKANSAS RIVER TRIPS
CHECK OUR VIDEOS
CURRENT WATER LEVELS

Clear Creek Info & Whitewater Rafting Trips

Clear Creek is a popular river as it's conveniently located just 30 minutes from Colorado's "Mile High" capital Denver. Winding through the beautiful foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Clear Creek is an addictingly moody river that boasts a diversity of difficulties and scenery that includes the town where the Gold Rush started.. You will find rafting options for beginners all the way through advanced rafting stretches, you can even book packages that include exclusive guided access to our "cliffside" zipline and via ferrata courses.

VIEW TRIPS
CHECK OUR VIDEOS
CURRENT WATER LEVELS

Colorado River Info & Whitewater Rafting Trips

Our Colorado River rafting trips start from our exclusive outpost in Kremmling, Colorado. Just an hour north of Breckenridge, and a slightly longer haul from the city, this stretch of the Colorado River is the perfect rafting location for those wanting to enjoy spectacular mountain ranges, wildlife, fun rapids, and floats for the whole family. You can even mix up your watercraft and trips with our inflateable kayaks (called "duckies") and standup paddleboards. This outpost and river also offer guided fly fishing tours, floats, all-inclusive overnight trips, and gear rentals for you to explore the river yourself.

VIEW TRIPS
CHECK OUR VIDEOS
CURRENT WATER LEVELS

Blue River Info & Whitewater Rafting Trips

The "elusive" Blue River runs right through the heart of Frisco, Keystone, and Breckenridge. The Blue River is a treat for anyone lucky enough to be in Colorado when it's running, as it takes a perfect combination of snowpack and the right conditions to actually run this river. Rafting on the Blue River is not only exciting but a uniquely breathtaking way to explore the mountains via raft, and it's perfect for all levels.

VIEW TRIPS
CHECK OUR VIDEOS
CURRENT WATER LEVELS

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Check Trip Age & Weight Minimums

Whether it’s your first rafting trip or your 100th, it’s always important to take your time evaluating the different whitewater rafting trips in Colorado. Some of the most important factors to consider when choosing a whitewater rafting trip are the minimum ages and weights listed for that particular trip. If you’re a young family, we recommend our Colorado River float trips as those trips are more mellow and have the lowest age/weight requirements. Another great resource is our FAQs page.

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Consider the Physical Fitness of Your Group

Whitewater rafting comes in a variety of “flavors”. From extra-spicy, adrenaline-inducing, ghost pepper, to lightly salted and scenic with a side of wildlife. If you have an appetite for some of the more “spicy” trips, consider not only your own fitness level but more so, that of your entire group; because getting a raft down the river requires everyone to paddle together. If you’re curious about our rafting difficulty levels and the different river classifications, click here.

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Book Early if You Can

Rafting is a very popular Colorado pastime and bucket-list adventure for many. We highly recommend booking your trip ahead of time, either through our website or by calling our friendly human trip specialists; who are available 7 days a week all year long at 800-370-0581. Once you’ve booked your trip, a detailed confirmation letter will be emailed to you that includes: driving directions, a gear list, trip time, date(s), and more.

Explore ALL Whitewater Rafting Trips & Packages with AVA