Estes Park

Our outpost in Idaho Springs provides access to Clear Creek and some of the best class III through V rafting in the area. Located 1 hour and 45 minutes from Estes park and only 30 minutes from Denver, Idaho Springs provides convenient and thrilling outdoor experiences, whether you’re visiting Estes Park or on your way to Denver!

Wilderness Awaits with AVA

Surrounded by Rocky Mountain National Park and only an hour and a half outside of Denver, Estes Park boasts a variety of outdoor activities and attractions with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. Most notably, Rocky Mountain National Park offers hiking and wildlife spotting, while the town of Estes hosts Lake Estes, with opportunities for boating, fishing, or relaxing.

Explore Estes Park

Top Trips

At our Idaho Springs outpost, just one hour and 45 minutes from Estes Park, we offer Whitewater Rafting on Clear Creek suitable for all ages and skill levels. In addition to rafting, we host unforgettable Cliffside Zipline and Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata trips, allowing you to soar through the air and conquer the Rocky Mountains.

For those looking to make the most of their Colorado trip, we also offer adventure packages that combine multiple experiences, so your day truly is action packed!

Exciting & Active
Most Popular - Great for Kids

Gold Rush Clear Creek Rafting Adventure

 
Splash down the Clear Creek mining valley on our 1/3 day Gold Rush trip. Just a short half-hour trip from Denver, this family-friendly rafting [...]

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group paddling between rocks on the Clear Creek, as one member raises paddle above his head
Exciting & Active
Best for Adventurers of All Ages

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 [...]

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Colorado Zipline Tours
Exciting & Active
Best for Families with Kids

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 [...]

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Person on a Via Ferrata course.
Thrilling & Very Active
Best for Cliffside Thrills

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 [...]

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group rafting on the upper colorado river
Fun & Mellow
Most Popular for All Ages & Abilities

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 [...]

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Estes Park Whitewater Rafting

Family Friendly Whitewater

For a convenient trip ideal for all ages, we recommend our 1/3 day Gold Rush Rafting on Clear Creek. From our Idaho Springs outpost you will paddle through 11 rapids of more moderate yet exciting class III whitewater!  For those seeking a less challenging yet still exhilarating day of adventure, we recommend combining this trip with our cliffside zipline in a full day raft + zipline adventure package.

Adrenaline Rush Rafting

Clear Creek also offers opportunities for more intense rafting! Our Phoenix full day adventure will take you on an exhilarating 20 mile ride through class IV and V rapids, and includes a stop for a riverside barbeque lunch!
Our Lower Canyon trip will introduce thrill seekers to challenging class V rapids in a half day adventure, while our Upper Clear Creek half-day rafting trip offers continuous, steep sections through class IV rapids. All Clear Creek rafting adventures take you through majestic Colorado scenery, with opportunities for wildlife spotting along the bank.

Ziplining near Estes Park

Our Idaho Springs outpost offers our unique and exciting Cliffside Zipline course. Built directly into the mountainside rather than on raised platforms, this course takes you swinging through the trees and above the Chicago Creek. Your group will enjoy zipping down 6 lines, a hanging bride and log cross, and a race down our dual zipline.

Combine this cliffside zipline adventure with a rafting trip to experience multiple adventures in one full day! For your Idaho Springs zip + raft multi-adventure package, choose between a cliffside zipline trip combined with our Upper Clear Creek, Lower Canyon, or Gold Rush rafting trips.

Via Ferrata near Estes Park

Our Idaho Springs outpost also hosts an exciting Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata course! Climb high into the cliffside across iron rungs and bars, experience a controlled freefall, and swing on several lines of our zipline course.

This half day adventure can also be combined with our half-day Upper Clear Creek and Lower Canyon or 1/3 day Gold Rush rafting trips in a full day multi-adventure package!

Discover All Estes Park Adventures

 

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A thrilling moment captured as a raft plunges down a steep drop, surrounded by cascading whitewater.
Thrilling & Very Active
Best Value for Family Fun

Browns Canyon Express

Experience the best of the Arkansas River on this 3/4 day trip through class III rapids and the majestic Browns Canyon National Monument. You’ll [...]

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view of woman climbing Via Ferrata through trees and shrubbery
Thrilling & Very Active
Best for a Full Day of Excitement

Gold Rush Rafting + Via Ferrata

On our Gold Rush rafting and Via Ferrata multi-adventure package, adventure starts strong and keeps coming. Climb high into the cliffside above Idaho Springs [...]

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Rafters navigating intense whitewater and spray.
Wild & High Exertion
Best for Thrill Seekers

Upper Clear Creek Rafting + Zipline

 
Package a thrilling zipline tour with the Upper Clear Creek half-day rafting trip for an adventure of a lifetime! This full-day experience combines our [...]

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An off-road UTV parked in a Colorado mountain meadow.
Splashy & Moderate
Best for Fun with Friends

Polaris RZR Half Day UTV Rental

Embark on an exhilarating full-day journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Kremmling, Colorado with our latest UTV rentals. With this half-day (4-hour) UTV rental, [...]

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Polaris RZR ready for a half-day adventure.
Splashy & Moderate
Best for Packed Schedules

Polaris RZR 2 Hour UTV Rental

Our UTV rentals offer an unforgettable opportunity to adventure through the stunning scenery of Kremmling, Colorado. Our 2-hour UTV rental offers a shorter introduction [...]

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Fishing and Boating Idaho Springs Colorado
Splashy & Moderate

2 Day Overnight Fishing Trip

The 2 days overnight fly fishing trip combines float and wade fly fishing and camping to create the quintessential Colorado adventure. We’ll provide the [...]

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Colorado Sunset Zipline
Exciting & Active
Best for Romantics & Stargazers

Starlight & Full Moon Zipline

Join us for one of the most exciting and popular Colorado mountain summer adventures – ziplining! The starlight zipline adventure allows you to experience [...]

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An e-bike bike parked on a mountaintop.
Fun & Mellow
Best for Cruising Town

1/2 Day Bike Rental

With our multiple bike options, you can choose from spraying up dirt on the trails, sending it downhill at Breckenridge Resort, or cruising the [...]

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Top Outdoor Activities near Estes Park

Rafters navigating intense whitewater and spray.

Colorado River

The Colorado River, a spectacular force of nature, is the lifeblood of the American West. Meandering over 1,450 miles from the snowy peaks of the Rocky Mountains all the way to the deserts of Mexico, this river passes through five U.S. states and eleven National Parks. As one of the longest rivers in the United States, it has etched some of the world’s most awe-inspiring features into the earth, including the Grand Canyon.

Along its course, the Colorado River represents a vital water source for millions of people and agricultural areas, as well as supports a rich diversity of wildlife. It also serves as a recreational paradise, offering world-class opportunities for white-water Rafting, Fishing, and Camping, and its rich and enduring history makes the Colorado River a crucial aspect of the landscape of the western United States.

The Colorado River offers rafting numerous opportunities for Whitewater Rafting amidst the backdrop of stunning scenery. From fun float trips appropriate for ages 2 and up to challenging, pulse-pounding rides, the Colorado River has river trips for everyone. Join AVA in Kremmling, Colorado for a trip down this mighty river, where the area’s mellower waters make it the perfect destination for river adventure, with activities including Rafting, Fly-Fishing, Kayaking, and Stand-Up Paddleboarding.

Clear Creek rafting trip.

Clear Creek

Clear Creek runs from Loveland Pass through Golden and The Front Range and eventually joins up with the South Platte River. This river flows through Clear Creek Canyon in the Rocky Mountains directly west of Denver, following alongside I-70 and through the town of Idaho Springs, where the first gold was found in the late 1850s during the Colorado gold rush.

Located in an old mining valley in the Colorado Rockies, its proximity to Denver, Boulder, Summit County and Winter Park makes Clear Creek rafting an easily accessible favorite for locals and travelers alike. Conveniently located only 30 minutes from Denver, our Idaho Springs outpost allows easy access to one of Colorado’s most well known rivers. Clear Creek runs through Idaho Spring’s historic mining valley, providing opportunities for scenic views and potential wildlife spotting, while flowing through fun and floaty rapids.

Oars up on a Colorado River.

Kremmling

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.

Group of people on a rustic bridge.

Idaho Springs

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.

Image of the Colorado mountains at dusk.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park encompasses some of the nation’s best peaks, lakes, wildflowers, reservoirs, and wildlife and includes a portion of the Continental Divide Trail. With over 300 miles of trail systems, Rocky Mountain National Park has incredible hikes for all levels from flatter scenic walks to multi-day back packing trips. Landscapes in the park vary greatly and include towering mountains, alpine tundra, crystal clear lakes, meadows, and evergreens, and provide the ecosystem for multiple endangered species.

Rocky Mountain National Park offers wilderness camping under the stars, and there are additional accommodations in the surrounding communities of Grand Lake and Estes Park. Although hiking may be the most common past time, it is not the only adventure you can find in the Rocky Mountain National Park area. From our Kremmling outpost, 40 minutes from the park, we offer Whitewater Rafting and Fly Fishing trips on the scenic Upper Colorado River, along with SUP and Inflatable Kayak trips and rentals.

A view of the Denver Colorado city skyline with snow-capped mountains in the background pointed west.

Denver

Denver, Colorado provides the perfect opportunity to explore cultural attractions, markets, festivals, museums, and urban excitement, while maintaining easy access to the best of Colorado’s outdoors. The Mile High City offers opportunities to listen to live music and enjoy food from diverse restaurants and breweries. Cheer for the Rockies at Coors Field, explore the 16th Street Mall and Union Station, check out the Denver Botanic Gardens, and relax at one of the city’s numerous parks and green areas. The nearby area also includes Colorado’s iconic Red Rocks amphitheater, as well as Golden, Colorado: Colorado’s first capital and the home of Coors brewing.

Denver’s central location in Colorado also makes it easy to access mountain adventures without excessive travel time. Drive 30 minutes from the city, and you will find opportunities for Whitewater Rafting, biking, hiking, and wildlife spotting. Denver is the perfect vacation for those wanting to experience the best of a vibrant city yet still explore Colorado’s natural beauty and scenery.

Image of the Colorado mountains at dusk.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park, CO

Rocky Mountain National Park encompasses some of the nation’s best peaks, lakes, wildflowers, reservoirs, and wildlife and includes a portion of the Continental Divide Trail. With over 300 miles of trail systems, Rocky Mountain National Park has incredible hikes for all levels from flatter scenic walks to multi-day back packing trips. Landscapes in the park vary greatly and include towering mountains, alpine tundra, crystal clear lakes, meadows, and evergreens, and provide the ecosystem for multiple endangered species.

Rocky Mountain National Park offers wilderness camping under the stars, and there are additional accommodations in the surrounding communities of Grand Lake and Estes Park. Although hiking may be the most common past time, it is not the only adventure you can find in the Rocky Mountain National Park area. From our Kremmling outpost, 40 minutes from the park, we offer Whitewater Rafting and Fly Fishing trips on the scenic Upper Colorado River, along with SUP and Inflatable Kayak trips and rentals.

A view of the Denver Colorado city skyline with snow-capped mountains in the background pointed west.

Denver

Denver, CO

Denver, Colorado provides the perfect opportunity to explore cultural attractions, markets, festivals, museums, and urban excitement, while maintaining easy access to the best of Colorado’s outdoors. The Mile High City offers opportunities to listen to live music and enjoy food from diverse restaurants and breweries. Cheer for the Rockies at Coors Field, explore the 16th Street Mall and Union Station, check out the Denver Botanic Gardens, and relax at one of the city’s numerous parks and green areas. The nearby area also includes Colorado’s iconic Red Rocks amphitheater, as well as Golden, Colorado: Colorado’s first capital and the home of Coors brewing.

Denver’s central location in Colorado also makes it easy to access mountain adventures without excessive travel time. Drive 30 minutes from the city, and you will find opportunities for Whitewater Rafting, biking, hiking, and wildlife spotting. Denver is the perfect vacation for those wanting to experience the best of a vibrant city yet still explore Colorado’s natural beauty and scenery.

Oars up on a Colorado River.

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.

Group of people on a rustic bridge.

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.

Rafters navigating intense whitewater and spray.

Colorado River

Kremmling, Colorado

The Colorado River, a spectacular force of nature, is the lifeblood of the American West. Meandering over 1,450 miles from the snowy peaks of the Rocky Mountains all the way to the deserts of Mexico, this river passes through five U.S. states and eleven National Parks. As one of the longest rivers in the United States, it has etched some of the world’s most awe-inspiring features into the earth, including the Grand Canyon.

Along its course, the Colorado River represents a vital water source for millions of people and agricultural areas, as well as supports a rich diversity of wildlife. It also serves as a recreational paradise, offering world-class opportunities for white-water Rafting, Fishing, and Camping, and its rich and enduring history makes the Colorado River a crucial aspect of the landscape of the western United States.

The Colorado River offers rafting numerous opportunities for Whitewater Rafting amidst the backdrop of stunning scenery. From fun float trips appropriate for ages 2 and up to challenging, pulse-pounding rides, the Colorado River has river trips for everyone. Join AVA in Kremmling, Colorado for a trip down this mighty river, where the area’s mellower waters make it the perfect destination for river adventure, with activities including Rafting, Fly-Fishing, Kayaking, and Stand-Up Paddleboarding.

Clear Creek rafting trip.

Clear Creek

Clear Creek

Clear Creek runs from Loveland Pass through Golden and The Front Range and eventually joins up with the South Platte River. This river flows through Clear Creek Canyon in the Rocky Mountains directly west of Denver, following alongside I-70 and through the town of Idaho Springs, where the first gold was found in the late 1850s during the Colorado gold rush.

Located in an old mining valley in the Colorado Rockies, its proximity to Denver, Boulder, Summit County and Winter Park makes Clear Creek rafting an easily accessible favorite for locals and travelers alike. Conveniently located only 30 minutes from Denver, our Idaho Springs outpost allows easy access to one of Colorado’s most well known rivers. Clear Creek runs through Idaho Spring’s historic mining valley, providing opportunities for scenic views and potential wildlife spotting, while flowing through fun and floaty rapids.

FAQs

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.

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!

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

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.