Boulder

Boulder is just a short drive from some of Colorado’s top whitewater rafting destinations, making it a prime spot for adventure seekers. The Clear Creek rafting area, located less than an hour away in Idaho Springs, offers exciting Class III to Class V rapids, perfect for both intermediate and advanced paddlers. For a more relaxed and scenic experience, head northwest through the breathtaking landscapes of Rocky Mountain National Park to reach the Upper Colorado River. Whether you're chasing adrenaline or soaking in nature, Boulder provides convenient access to some of Colorado’s most exhilarating river adventures.

An Adventure for the Thrill Seekers

Boulder has long been considered a “must-see” destination for Colorado travelers, especially for those seeking world-class outdoor adventure and natural beauty. Located at the base of the Rocky Mountain foothills near the iconic Flatirons, Boulder offers countless opportunities to hike, bike, climb, and explore the stunning outdoors of northern Colorado. With easy access to scenic spots like Chautauqua Park, Eldorado Canyon, and Boulder Creek, it’s a perfect base for experiencing Colorado’s adventurous spirit.

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Top Trips

Boulder offers exciting nearby opportunities for whitewater rafting, ziplining, Via Ferrata, rock climbing, horseback riding adventures and more!

  1. 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.  

  2. 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.

  3. Mount Blue Sky, Colorado Via Ferrata

    Get your heart up on one of our most daring adventure trips! On our Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata course, you will traverse the cliffside in this unique assisted climbing experience, with views of the Rockies and the town of Idaho Springs present the entire way.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

  6. Cliffside Zipline Half Day

    Fly through the trees on our exciting 6-line zipline course in Idaho Springs. This trip includes features such as a dual race line, hanging bridge, and log cross, with the entire family having a blast on this half-day adventure!  

Boulder Whitewater Rafting

Clear Creek Rafting

Clear Creek, an hour away from Boulder at our Idaho Springs outpost, is also renowned as one of the best rafting destinations near the Denver area. It offers exhilarating experiences for all ages and skill levels. As you navigate the river, you’ll be treated to captivating Colorado views with the chance to encounter wildlife along the historic mining valley of Idaho Springs.

For a mild introduction to whitewater rafting suitable for all ages, our 1/3 day Clear Creek Gold Rush trip trip is the perfect choice. Rush through eleven exciting class III rapids and enjoy the adventure at a comfortable pace. If you’re ready for a slightly more challenging experience, opt for our Upper Clear Creek or Lower Canyon 1/2 day trips. Conquer class IV rapids with steeper technical sections that will get your heart racing and adrenaline pumping. Embark on a full-day advanced adventure spanning 20 miles, packed with non-stop excitement and intense rapids.

Upper Colorado Rafting

Trade intense whitewater for serenity and scenery on the Upper Colorado River, an easy and unforgettable adventure located near Kremmling, about 2.5 hours from Boulder. The journey there is part of the experience—drive through Rocky Mountain National Park, winding past towering peaks, alpine lakes, and sweeping meadows as you make your way to one of Colorado’s most scenic river destinations.

Once you arrive, choose from Half-Day or Full-Day Scenic Float trips—perfect for families, first-timers, or anyone looking to relax on the water. Glide through calm currents surrounded by stunning red rock canyons, open valleys, and abundant wildlife.

Want a more active adventure? Try paddling your own Inflatable Kayak or Stand-Up Paddleboard for a fun and refreshing way to experience the river. Or slow things down even more with a Fly Fishing trip on the Upper Colorado’s crystal-clear waters, home to healthy populations of trout.

With warm water, wide open views, and options for every type of adventurer, the Upper Colorado River offers a peaceful escape and a full Colorado experience—from scenic drives to riverside memories that last a lifetime.

Boulder Aerial Adventures

Choose from two incredible zipline courses near Boulder! Our Mountaintop Zipline is just 2.5 hours away in Buena Vista, Colorado, where you'll soar high into the sky, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Collegiate Peaks and the stunning Arkansas River Valley. Our second zipline course is our Cliffside Zipline, 1 hour away in Idaho Springs that offers a unique adventure into the mountainside above the Chicago Creek and the historic town. Experience the thrill of our Granite Via Ferrata in Buena Vista and Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata in Idaho Springs locations. Prepare to embark on an exhilarating adventure as you climb high into the cliffsides, navigating through iron rungs, bars, and bridges, and even swing on several lines of our zipline courses!

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What To Know

The Closest River to Boulder

Clear Creek is 1 hour from Boulder and flows through some of the most natural areas in Colorado. The Upper Colorado River is about 2.5 hours away and offer the most scenic routes.

Arkansas River

The Closest Outpost to Boulder

Our Idaho Springs outpost is 1 hour away, and our Kremmling outpost is about 2.5 hours away from Boulder.

Idaho Springs Outpost

Family-Friendly

Our Gold Rush Clear Creek trip at our Idaho Springs outpost offers a perfect introduction to Whitewater Rafting, as you navigate milder class III rapids through the scenic Clear Creek.

Gold Rush Clear Creek

Thrill-Seekers

The Upper Clear Creek rafting trip in Idaho Springs is perfect for intermediate rafters and thrill seekers. This action-packed section features fast-moving Class IV rapids, steep drops, and tight technical turns. It’s the ideal choice for adventurous groups ready to take their rafting experience to the next level!

Upper Clear Creek

Activities in the Area

The Flatirons

Boulder's most iconic natural landmark, the Flatirons are striking sandstone formations that rise dramatically above the city. They're a favorite for hiking, rock climbing, and capturing stunning scenic views.

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Chautauqua Park

Located at the base of the Flatirons, Chautauqua Park offers easy access to some of Boulder’s best hiking trails and panoramic vistas. It’s also home to historic cottages, a community auditorium, and seasonal cultural events.

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Pearl Street Mall

A lively, pedestrian-only district in downtown Boulder, Pearl Street Mall is lined with shops, restaurants, galleries, and street performers. It’s a perfect spot for strolling, dining, and soaking up the local culture.

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Eldorado Canyon State Park

Just south of Boulder, this park is world-renowned for rock climbing and also features scenic hiking trails along dramatic canyon walls. It’s a peaceful escape into nature with views of the South Boulder Creek and golden sandstone cliffs.

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Quick Facts

Boulder's Location

Boulder is located in north-central Colorado, at the base of the Rocky Mountain foothills about 30 miles northwest of Denver. Nestled against the iconic Flatirons, the city offers easy access to both outdoor recreation in the mountains and urban amenities nearby. Its location makes it a prime gateway for exploring northern Colorado's natural beauty.

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Boulder's History

Boulder’s history dates back to the mid-1800s, when it was founded during the Colorado Gold Rush as a supply town for nearby mining camps. It soon became a hub for education and innovation with the establishment of the University of Colorado in 1876. Over time, Boulder evolved into a progressive, environmentally focused city known for its blend of outdoor adventure, academic excellence, and cultural richness.

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Best Time to Raft

The best time to raft both the Clear Creek and Upper Colorado River is May through September. Thrill seekers will appreciate the higher water and more intense rafting in late May and June, while everyone will enjoy cooling down on the river in July and August.

Current River Conditions

Boulder Adventures

The Boulder area offers access to whitewater rafting, ziplining, Via Ferrata, rock-climbing, horseback riding, and more, with activities for ages 7 and older. Choose from half-day, full day, or multi day activities!

All Adventures

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FAQs

Where are you located?

AVA has locations across the state of Colorado. Our primary outposts are located in Idaho Springs, Kremmling, Buena Vista and Breckenridge. For more information on getting to your adventure with us, please visit our Getting Here page.

Is transportation to and from the outpost provided?

Transportation to the outpost is not included. You can enhance your experience and add our shuttle service as an additional offer during the booking process. If you add this transportation to your adventure, a private car will pick you up at your address and transport your group to our outpost, and our driver will be ready to take you home at the conclusion of your tour!

When is the best time to go rafting?

If you’re planning a vacation to Colorado you likely have a limited time window from which to choose – and that’s just fine. Depending on the type of challenge, length of time you want to be on the river, and the location you’ll be visiting, we have multiple options for beginner to advanced paddlers. The Best Time To Enjoy River Trips at AVA: Arkansas River: May – Sept Clear Creek: May – Sept Colorado River: May – Sept Blue River: June Dolores River: May – June Salt River: Late February – mid-May

When can I go ziplining?

You can zipline with AVA from March through November each year! The Cliffside Zipline in Idaho Springs near Denver will open the first weekend of March and stay open on a limited schedule through the end of November. The Mountaintop Zipline in Buena Vista will open between the end of April and early May and stay open through Labor Day. During the summer there are zipline trips hourly starting at 8:00am at both locations.