Scenic Rivers of Colorado: 10 Must-See Waterways

From mountains, lakes, and rivers, Colorado offers a plethora of unique opportunities for outdoor exploration. Whether you’re into alpine hikes, scenic drives on backcountry roads, or water-based adventures like fly fishing and beginner whitewater rafting, the state has something for everyone. To help you plan your outdoor escape, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 most scenic rivers in Colorado (each offering stunning views, rich wildlife, and unforgettable recreation).

Why Colorado Rivers Are So Scenic

Colorado’s rivers are uniquely breathtaking thanks to their combination of snow-capped mountain backdrops, crystal-clear water, thriving wildlife habitats, and year-round recreational access. Whether flowing through high alpine valleys or rugged desert canyons, these rivers cut through some of the most dramatic landscapes in the American West. Their untouched stretches and biodiversity make them natural wonders that attract photographers, anglers, rafters, and nature lovers alike.

1. Animas River

Scenic highlight: Surrounded by the rugged San Juan Mountains and following the historic Durango & Silverton railroad.
Best for: Summer fishing, wildlife viewing, and float trips near Durango.

At 126 miles long, the Animas River winds through southwest Colorado’s dramatic mountain terrain. Known for its Gold Medal trout waters and frequent bald eagle sightings, the river delivers a rich natural experience. Mineral remnants from past mining give the riverbed a unique visual texture, while its high fish population makes it a paradise for anglers.

2. Arkansas River

Scenic highlight: Towering canyons, high desert valleys, and the scenic towns of Buena Vista and Salida.
Best for: White water rafting from June–August and exploring Brown’s Canyon National Monument.

The Arkansas River is the sixth-longest river in the U.S., flowing through 1,469 miles of striking landscapes. In Colorado, it’s known for Browns Canyon, designated a national monument, and adrenaline-pumping rapids like The Numbers. Visitors come for Class III–V rafting, trout fishing, and riverfront mountain views.

3. Cache La Poudre River

Scenic highlight: Travels from the Continental Divide through Rocky Mountain National Park and down canyon walls to Fort Collins.
Best for: Late spring and summer rafting, fly fishing, and family-friendly float trips.

Designated as “Wild and Scenic,” the Cache la Poudre River runs 76 miles through dramatic alpine and canyon scenery. It’s a go-to destination for those visiting northern Colorado or Rocky Mountain National Park, with rafting options ranging from beginner to expert and some of the best trout fishing in the region.

4. Colorado River

Scenic highlight: Winds through multiple national parks and iconic Western terrain, including Glenwood Canyon.
Best for: Year-round activities like white water rafting, stand up paddle boarding, and guided trout fishing.

Originating in the Rockies, the Colorado River stretches 1,450 miles and flows through seven states and 11 national parks. It’s not just scenic, it’s legendary. Wildlife abounds, and its upper stretches offer serene floats while downstream sections provide heart-pounding rapids and red-rock canyon views.

5. Yampa River

Scenic highlight: A rare free-flowing river that cuts through lush forests and remote desert canyons.
Best for: Spring rafting (Class IV–V), wildlife viewing, and conservation-focused exploration.

At 300 miles long, the Yampa River is one of the last major undammed rivers in the western U.S. It flows from the ski town of Steamboat Springs to Dinosaur National Monument. Known for its rich biodiversity, including endangered fish, the Yampa is a favorite among conservationists and adventurous rafters alike.

6. Eagle River

Scenic highlight: Winding through Vail Valley with alpine meadows and wildflower-dotted hillsides.
Best for: Mid-summer rafting, fly fishing for wild trout, and backcountry kayaking.

At only 60 miles long, the Eagle River may be small, but it packs big scenic rewards. A tributary of the Colorado River, it flows past ski towns like Vail and Avon, offering mountain views, crystal-clear water, and rich fly fishing, especially in its designated Gold Medal stretches.

7. Clear Creek

Scenic highlight: Nestled in a historic mining valley with steep canyon walls and rapid-filled drops.
Best for: Close-to-Denver white water raftingin late spring, cliffside zipline trip, mountaintop Via Ferrata, and historic sightseeing.

Flowing through Golden and Idaho Springs, Clear Creek is one of the most accessible rivers from the Denver metro area. The river’s tight, rocky canyon makes it a whitewater haven for Class II–V rapids, while its history during the 1859 Gold Rush adds a layer of intrigue to every adventure.

8. Dolores River

Scenic highlight: Surreal desert landscapes, remote red rock canyons, and whispering Ponderosa pines.
Best for: Early summer rafting, canyoneering, and wildlife spotting near McPhee Reservoir.

At 230 miles long, the Dolores River flows from the San Juan Mountains into Utah. Once nearly dammed, this river now flows freely during snowmelt season. Rafters and kayakers are drawn to its short-lived spring flows, when the desert blooms and water levels peak for thrilling Class IV–V whitewater runs.

9. South Platte River

Scenic highlight: Open grasslands and plains contrast with alpine sources, offering broad, peaceful vistas.
Best for: Year-round fly fishing, biking along riverside paths, and urban wildlife viewing.

The South Platte River runs through the heart of Colorado and into Nebraska, serving both natural ecosystems and the Denver metro area. Known for its Gold Medal waters and easy access via urban parks like Confluence Park, it offers prime fishing, even in winter, and serene walking paths.

10. Gunnison River

Scenic highlight: Carves through some of the deepest and most dramatic gorges in North America.
Best for: Late spring rafting, hiking in Black Canyon National Park, and high-adrenaline fishing.

Originating in the awe-inspiring Black Canyon of the Gunnison, the 164-Gunnison River is a wild tributary of the Colorado River. Known for its steep canyon walls, narrow passageways, and powerhouse rapids, the Gunnison attracts experienced rafters, nature photographers, and those seeking remote beauty.

FAQs About Colorado’s Most Scenic Rivers

What is the most beautiful river in Colorado?

The Colorado River is widely considered the most iconic and beautiful, thanks to its dramatic landscapes and access to national parks.

Which Colorado river is best for a scenic float?

The Upper Colorado River offers stunning scenery and calm stretches ideal for relaxing float trips.

When is the best time to visit scenic rivers in Colorado?

Late spring through early fall is ideal, when water levels are higher, temperatures are pleasant, and the landscapes are at their peak.

With so many awe-inspiring, scenic, and exciting Colorado rivers, we can’t wait to get out and explore their rapids, as well as their banks. From river floats to class V rapids, these rivers offer rafting options for every adventurer. And if you’re not looking for a whitewater excursion, be sure to delve into the rivers’ fly-fishing, wildlife viewing, and other recreational opportunities!