Welcome to the world of Clear Creek rafting, one of the best ways to dive into a Colorado adventure! Located 30 minutes from Denver, Clear Creek beginner rafting is perfect for families and first time white water rafting without going too far from the city. This whitewater rafting experience delivers Rocky Mountain scenery and nonstop smiles!
Why Choose Clear Creek for Your Family Rafting Adventure
What makes Clear Creek rafting trips great for kids, families, and beginners? Rafting in Clear Creek offers multiple sections of the water with different difficulty levels, so you can choose an adventure that matches your comfort zone.
You’ll float through a stunning canyon lined with towering pine trees and rugged cliffs that give you a real taste of Colorado. From Class II floats to Class III thrills, there’s a perfect route for every adventurer.
Perfect Location for Colorado Family Rafting
AVA’s Clear Creek rafting outpost is located in Idaho Springs, a charming historic mining town that’s just 30 minutes from Denver, making it a super accessible location. This spot is a perfect launch point for a full day of mountain adventure without spending hours in the car.
After your trip, you can stroll through the town’s Main Street or learn a little Colorado history at one of the old gold mine tours.
With over 27 years of experience, AVA has fine-tuned every detail to make your Clear Creek, CO white water rafting trip smooth, safe, and unforgettable.
Beginner-Friendly Rapids and Safety Measures
The rapid classification system rates the intensity of the river on a scale from Class I (easy, gentle currents) to Class VI (extremely dangerous and only for expert paddlers). On Clear Creek, CO, beginner trips typically navigate Class II and Class III rapids.
At AVA, safety is always the top priority. Every Clear Creek rafting tour is guided by a trained professional who’s not only an expert on the river but also certified in CPR.
You’ll also be outfitted with a personal flotation device, helmet, and wetsuit if needed, to keep you safe. From the moment you arrive at the Clear Creek, CO outpost, everything is designed to make your whitewater rafting adventure safe.
Top-Rated Clear Creek Rafting Tours
When it comes to Clear Creek rafting, there’s a trip for every level of adventure.
Half-Day Family Adventures
If you’re looking for white water rafting for kids as young as six can enjoy, our Clear Creek Gold Rush rafting is the perfect fit.
You’ll spend about 1/3 of a day on the river, navigating exciting rapids that are fast-paced, yet mellow enough to feel fun for younger rafters. Along the way, you’ll conquer well-known rapids like Dizzy Lizzy, Nomad, and Mountain Lion.
This is an adventure perfect for a Colorado family rafting.
Full-Day Clear Creek Experiences
Want to pack even more excitement into your mountain getaway? Full-day Colorado adventure packages are perfect for groups who want to maximize their time in the Rockies without spending hours traveling between destinations.
- Cliffside Zipline – Soar through the treetops on a series of ziplines built right into the mountainside with lines up to 600 feet long and a thrilling “Surf Zip.”.
- Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata – A guided climbing route that uses fixed cables and iron rungs to help you scale rocks and cross suspension bridges perfect for a vertical thrill.
Book one of our full-day Colorado adventure packages!
BOOK RAFTING + ZIPLINE BOOK RAFTING + VIA FERRATA
Planning Your Clear Creek Rafting Trip
Getting ready for your Colorado family rafting trip is part of the fun. This guide will help you know exactly what to bring, what to expect, and how to make the most of your trip.
Best Times for Clear Creek Rafting
Timing your Clear Creek beginner rafting trips just right can make all the difference. Clear Creek’s water levels depend entirely on natural snowmelt from the Rockies, making each season a little different.
May to early June
This is when the water is at its highest and fastest thanks to melting snow. It’s an exciting time for thrill-seekers. The water is colder, but AVA provides wetsuits.
Mid-June to July
These are the peak summer months, perfect for Colorado rafting trips for families. The rapids are still exciting but more moderate, and the weather is warm.
August
Water levels begin to drop in August, but trips still run, especially early in the month. The rapids may mellow out a bit, offering a more scenic and relaxed experience.
Essential Gear and Preparation Tips
Getting geared up the right way sets you up for a comfortable and fun day on Clear Creek rafting.
What to Wear
- Quick-drying, non-cotton layers like synthetic shirts, swimwear, or moisture-wicking fabrics.
- Bring sunglasses with a strap to keep them secure.
- Wear water shoes, sandals with straps, or old sneakers.
For more additional essentials, see the full list on What To Bring.
Important Reminder: Waiver Signing
To save time and speed up your check-in, make sure to sign your waiver online before arriving.
Making the Most of Your Experience
To make your Clear Creek rafting adventure as fun and safe as possible, a little preparation and these insider tips can go a long way!
Safety First
- Listen closely to your guide’s safety briefing.
- Follow your guide’s commands during rapids.
- Always wear your personal flotation device and helmet.
FAQ: Your Clear Creek Rafting Questions Answered
- Q: What is the minimum age for family whitewater rafting on Clear Creek, CO?
- A: For our beginner Gold Rush trip, the minimum age is typically 6 years old and at least 50 lbs. Age limits can change depending on water levels.
- Q: Do I need to have white water rafting experience?
- A: No! Our Gold Rush trip is specifically designed for first time rafting for kids and families. Our experienced guides provide all the training you need before you get on the water.
- Q: What gear is included? What should I wear?
- A: We’ve got you covered! Your Clear Creek rafting price includes all necessary gear: a wetsuit, splash jacket, helmet, and life jacket
- Q: Do I need to know how to swim?
- A: The ability to swim is recommended but not required for our beginner trips. You will be wearing a life jacket at all times on the river.
- Q: Can we get photos of our trip?
- A: Yes! We have professional photographers who capture the most exciting moments of your Clear Creek rafting trips. You can view and purchase these photos at our outpost.
- Q: Can you bring your own camera for the trip?
- A: Yes! Bring a waterproof camera or GoPro if you have one to capture your own Clear Creek rafting trip footage.
Meet Mitchell, the newest member of the Outlaw team, who’s always on the lookout for hidden gems—whether that’s in a thrift store, at the most aesthetic coffee shop, or the next marketing campaign! Social media is his one true passion, and writing and telling stories has always accompanied it. When he’s not typing away on his next great story or blog post, you can find him at Wash Park playing grass volleyball or rollerblading at a safe speed.
His motto? “Smile, it’s always in style!” A perfect reminder to keep things light, positive, and full of good vibes—just like his approach to life, marketing, and writing!
