
Denver Whitewater Rafting
Looking for the best whitewater rafting near Denver? AVA offers top-rated rafting on Colorado’s most scenic rivers. From thrilling rapids to scenic floats, your perfect adventure starts here.

The Best Rafting Near Denver
Discover Denver’s top whitewater rafting destinations just a short drive from the city! AVA operates premier rafting trips on Clear Creek, the Arkansas River, and the Colorado River, each offering a unique blend of thrilling rapids and breathtaking scenery. Clear Creek (Idaho Springs) – 30 Minutes from Denver. Arkansas River (Buena Vista) – 2 Hours from Denver. Colorado River (Kremmling) – 2 Hours from Denver. Beyond rafting, AVA offers ziplining and Via Ferrata courses, built directly into Colorado’s rugged cliffs, providing a true Rocky Mountain adventure experience.
Denver Colorado Rafting Trips
Whitewater Rafting Near Denver
Adventure Destinations Close to Denver
Family-Friendly Rafting Near Denver
Clear Creek Gold Rush (Class II-III) – 30 minutes from Denver, perfect for first-timers and families. Upper Colorado Scenic Float (Class I-II) – A relaxing, scenic float ideal for kids and those seeking a mellow experience. Intermediate Rafting Trips Clear Creek Intermediate (Class III-IV) – Bigger splashes and stunning canyon scenery. Browns Canyon on the Arkansas River (Class III-IV) – Colorado’s most famous rafting section with fun rapids and granite rock formations. Advanced & High-Adrenaline Rafting Clear Creek Advanced (Class IV-V) – Steep drops, technical rapids, and nonstop action. The Numbers on the Arkansas River (Class IV-V) – One of the most thrilling rafting runs in the state. Our three outposts in Idaho Springs, Buena Vista, and Kremmling are within easy reach of Denver, Breckenridge, Vail, and more, making it easy to fit whitewater rafting into any itinerary!
Unbeatable Mountain Scenery
Behind every rapid and every climb is a chance to experience Colorado’s most breathtaking landscapes. At AVA’s outposts, you’ll encounter stunning rivers and mountains, with each location offering a unique perspective on the Colorado experience. Stay closer to Denver and explore the Rocky Mountains where the Colorado Gold Rush began at our Idaho Springs outpost, or venture deeper into the mountains at our Buena Vista location. Here, you’ll discover crystal-clear water and the towering granite cliffs of the Arkansas River Valley. For those seeking rugged terrain, our Kremmling outpost features the Colorado River winding through a dramatic, remote landscape.
Your Complete Denver Itinerary
Whether your group is in Denver Colorado for one day or a few weeks, we want you to make the most of your time exploring the outdoors. Our trip locations make it easy to fit an adventure into any itinerary. For those looking to maximize their experience, our multi-adventure packages let you enjoy more than one thrilling activity in a single day at the same location. We encourage our guests to keep exploring beyond their rafting trip, as each of our outposts is conveniently located near additional outdoor adventures, dining experiences, and cultural attractions.
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.