Trip Recommender
Idaho Springs, located just 30 minutes from Denver and within an hour of Boulder, Summit County and Winter Park, is home to one of our AVA outposts! Colorado’s first gold was discovered here, and it is said that the Gold Rush originated in Idaho Springs. Visitors can explore the areas rich history through tours of the Argo Mill and Tunnel and Phoenix Gold Mine and relax in the notable Indian Hot Springs. The town also boasts several unique and local restaurants you will want to check out after your outdoor adventure!
The Idaho Springs area offers the best Whitewater Rafting near Denver on the Clear Creek, and our outpost includes exciting cliffside Zipline and Via Ferrata tours. The area’s location near Mount Evans, one of Colorado’s numerous 14ers, offers opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting, and visitors can drive to the summit via the Mount Evans Scenic Byway.
LOCATION: Idaho Springs, CO
ACTIVITIES: Upper Clear Creek Rafting + Via Ferrata
DURATION: Full Day
DIFFICULTY: Level 5 (intense)
River Rating: Class IV
MINIMUM AGE: 15 years old
PRICE: from $188 Ages 15+
LOCATION: Idaho Springs, CO
ACTIVITIES: Clear Creek Gold Rush Rafting + Zipline
DURATION: Full Day
DIFFICULTY: Level 4 (moderate)
RIVER RATING: Class III
MINIMUM AGE: 6 years old
PRICE: from $158 for adults 13+
from $153 for ages 6-12
LOCATION: Idaho Springs, CO
ACTIVITIES: Whitewater Rafting
DURATION: 1/3 Day
DIFFICULTY: Level 3 (moderate)
RIVER RATING: Class III
MINIMUM AGE: 6 years old
PRICE: from $69 adults 13+
from $64 ages 6-12
Idaho Springs has become a hidden gem for mountain recreation. Its convenient location, dramatic scenery, and some of the best mountain experiences in Colorado make it easy to spend the entire day exploring the outdoors. We offer Whitewater Rafting on the Clear Creek for all ages and ability levels, and thrilling Cliffside Zipline and Mount Evans Via Ferrata trips. We additionally provide adventure packages, so you can maximize your time and participate in multiple adventure experiences!
Experience the best of Colorado rafting just a short 30-minute drive from Denver with Clear Creek ! Our Idaho Springs outpost provides convenient access to exhilarating Whitewater Rafting experiences for all skill levels and ages.
As you embark on your Clear Creek rafting journey, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Idaho Springs and its mining valley. Navigate exciting rapids, while immersing yourself in Colorado’s beautiful and historic landscape. Be sure to take your eyes off the river just long enough to keep an eye out for local wildlife!
For a family-friendly introduction to rafting, our 1/3 day Clear Creek Gold Rush takes you on a milder journey through class III rapids, offering a thrilling adventure suitable for all ages. For those seeking a more exhilarating experience, our Upper Clear Creek 1/2 day trip is the perfect choice, as you encounter steeper technical sections of class IV rapids, while our Lower Canyon 1/2 day trip provides an introductory option to challenging class V whitewater that will get your heart racing. If you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for an intense and exciting adventure, our Phoenix trip is the ultimate option. This full-day advanced excursion covers 20 miles of non-stop thrills and unforgettable moments at every twist and turn!
Best time to raft: May – September
Ages: 6 years old and up
Duration: 1/3 day, 1/2 day, and Full Day
Other Activities: Zipline, Via Ferrata
Located 15 minutes west of Idaho Springs. Activities:
Located 1 hour west of Idaho Springs. Activities:
Located 1 hour and 15 minutes northwest of Idaho Springs. Activities:
Located 2 hours southwest of Idaho Springs. Activities:
Our Idaho Springs rafting trips and zipline tours offer top-notch fun for all ages. AVA offers trips in Idaho Springs with multiple departures times each day to fit your action-packed vacation schedule or your demanding work life. Sign up for an early morning trip to avoid the crowds or join us for an evening river ride to make the most of summer’s long days.
The historic mining town of Idaho Springs is famous for being the location of one of the first gold rushes in Colorado. Now it’s the home of adrenaline rushes! You’ll feel a world away from the big city even though it’s just 30 miles down I-70 from Denver.
Here are a few of our favorite places to find some delicious grub or a post-paddle beer.
