argo mine and tunnel view from raft

Idaho Springs

Explore our Idaho Springs outpost for the most convenient and fun outdoor adventure opportunities to Denver. The area boasts whitewater rafting, ziplining, Via Ferrata, hiking and biking trails, along with the chance to learn about the area’s historical significance to Colorado’s gold rush.

Also worth considering, AVA’s Kremmling adventures on the Upper Colorado River offer some of the most reliable rafting conditions throughout the season and are perfect for guests looking for a more scenic and relaxing river experience. The Upper Colorado is known for its consistent flows, beautiful canyon scenery, abundant wildlife, and calmer waters, making it an excellent choice for families, first-time rafters, inflatable kayaks, and scenic float trips.

The Gateway to Adventure

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. The Idaho Springs area offers the best Whitewater Rafting near Denver on the Clear Creek, and our outpost also hosts cliffside zipline and Via Ferrata courses. The area’s location near Mount Blue Sky, one of Colorado’s numerous 14ers, offers opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting, and visitors can drive to the summit via the Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway.

 

Explore Idaho Springs

Top Trips

From our Idaho Springs outpost, discover whitewater rafting on the Clear Creek for all ability levels, as well as ziplining and Via Ferrata trips. Combine a rafting trip with an aerial adventure in a full day multi-adventure package and explore the best of Colorado’s mountains and rivers.

White water rafting in Colorado
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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Woman smiling while traversing AVA's Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata course
Heart Pounding
Best for a Full Day of Thrills

Upper Clear Creek 1/2 Day + Via Ferrata

Spend your day venturing through the mountains on with this thrilling combo of activities! You’ll have the opportunity to challenge yourself on the water [...]

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Colorado Zipline Tours
Exciting & Active
Best for Families with Kids

Cliffside Zipline Half Day

Experience one of the most unique zipline adventures near Denver on our Cliffside Zipline Course in Idaho Springs. Your adventure begins in historic downtown [...]

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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 racing on one of Colorado’s most unique aerial adventures. Our Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata takes you high above Chicago Creek [...]

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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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group paddling into oncoming waves
Thrilling & Very Active
Best for Thrill Seekers

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 [...]

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Explore Idaho Springs Adventures

 

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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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group smiling through spray as they paddle down the Arkansas River
Exciting & Active
Best for Families & Groups

Browns Canyon 1/2 Day

 
Get ready to experience the best of Colorado on our Brown’s Canyon half-day trip. This family-friendly adventure rushes you down the Arkansas River and [...]

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woman paddling inflatable kayak
Splashy & Moderate
Best for Choose Your Own Adventure

Inflatable Kayaks Half Day

Looking to take charge of the river? On AVA’s Upper Colorado Inflatable Kayak ½ Day trip you can do just that! Whether you want [...]

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fisher towers in moab during golden hour
Fun & Mellow
Most Popular for All Ages & Abilities

Fisher Towers Half-Day Rafting Trip | Colorado River, Moab

If you’re picturing the Colorado River winding through towering red rock canyons, calm stretches of water, and just enough splash to keep things fun. [...]

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Colorado Zipline Tours
Exciting & Active
Best for Families with Kids

Cliffside Zipline Half Day

Experience one of the most unique zipline adventures near Denver on our Cliffside Zipline Course in Idaho Springs. Your adventure begins in historic downtown [...]

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White water rafting in Colorado
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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Woman paddling stand up paddleboard
Exciting & Active
Best for More Action on Mellow Water

Stand Up Paddleboard Half Day

Try the newest, most fun activity on the river – Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)! On this half-day trip, you’ll SUP 5 miles down the [...]

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Guest on the 78-foot free fall on AVA's Granite Via Ferrata course.
Thrilling & Very Active
Best for thrill seekers

Colorado Via Ferrata – Granite

Adventure awaits as you conquer the cliffside on this unique mountaintop climbing experience. Feel a rush of adrenaline as you traverse across and above [...]

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AVA's Idaho Springs Outpost

Idaho Springs Aerial Adventures

At our Idaho Springs outpost, we also offer exciting ziplining and Via Ferrata adventures. Climb high into the cliffside above our Idaho Springs outpost and soar on our 6 different ziplines or climb our Via Ferrata course. This assisted climbing opportunity takes you into the mountainside via iron rungs, bars, bridges, and ziplines. Both of our aerial courses are unique in that they are built directly into the cliffside rather than on raised platforms and allow you to truly experience the best of the Rocky Mountains.

Ziplining
Via Ferrata

Clear Creek Rafting

From our Idaho Springs outpost, AVA offers rafting on the Clear Creek. Flowing right through the heart of Idaho Springs, Clear Creek is a ribbon of adventure. This river offers exciting whitewater rafting, with sections suitable for both families and adrenaline seekers. Our trips include 1/3 day, half-day, and full day adventures on class III through V rapids. Beyond the rapids, Clear Creek’s scenic beauty can be enjoyed by fishing along its banks, or by hiking and biking the trails that follow its course.

Clear Creek Trips

More Idaho Springs Activities

Another favorite Idaho Springs activity is the Georgetown Loop Railroad. Running between Georgetown and Silver Plume, this historic railroad winds its way through the mountains, offering stunning views of the countryside in a historic locomotive.

Train Rides

Other activities include:

  • Tour the historic Argo Mill and Tunnel or Phoenix Gold Mine
  • Soak in the Indian Hot Springs
  • Hike Mount Blue Sky, St. Mary’s Glacier, or another favorite trail
  • Eat and drink at Beau Jo’s Pizza, Tommyknocker Brewery, or another favorite restaurant

Why Pick AVA and our Idaho Springs Outpost?

Adventure Starts in the Heart of Idaho Springs

AVA’s Idaho Springs outpost is located right on historic Main Street, making it one of the most convenient and exciting rafting destinations in Colorado. Just a short drive from Denver, our location places guests within walking distance of local restaurants, breweries, shops, and the charm of downtown Idaho Springs before or after their adventure.

Walk Straight to the River

One of the biggest advantages of rafting with AVA in Idaho Springs is our direct walk-to-put-in access for select trips. In rafting, the “put-in” is the location where guides launch the boats and guests begin their trip on the river. While many rafting companies require guests to shuttle to remote river access points, AVA’s outpost sits right next to the Clear Creek put-in for our popular Gold Rush rafting trip. That means less time loading buses and more time enjoying the river.

Our unique setup gives guests the best of both worlds: a full-service rafting outpost with gear, check-in, changing areas, and amenities, plus immediate access to the river just steps away.

Safari Truck Transportation Experience

For adventures requiring transportation, guests ride in AVA’s custom Safari Trucks between the outpost and trip locations. These open-air adventure vehicles add to the excitement before you even reach the river, creating a true Colorado mountain experience from start to finish. The scenic drive through Idaho Springs and Clear Creek Canyon becomes part of the adventure itself.

Colorado’s Original Mountainside Aerial Adventure

Beyond rafting, AVA Idaho Springs is also home to one of Colorado’s most exciting aerial adventure experiences. Guests can soar through the mountains on our zipline courses, navigate elevated challenge elements, and experience incredible Rocky Mountain scenery from above. Combined with rafting on Clear Creek, these adventures make Idaho Springs one of the top destinations in Colorado for multi-adventure outdoor experiences.

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.

Blue River near Breckenridge, Colorado.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge, CO 80424

The magic of summer in the mountains comes alive in Breckenridge, Colorado. Located within Summit County, Breckenridge offers skiing and snowboarding, alongside plenty of opportunities for winter sports, yet the temperate summer weather and high alpine environment transform Breckenridge into a mecca for summer adventure. Breckenridge, Colorado is the place to visit if you are looking for a hip mountain town with access to the best outdoor adventures the Colorado mountains have to offer. Best of all, you’ll find Whitewater Rafting trips near Breckenridge on 4 different rivers!

In summer, Breckenridge hosts several festivals, a vibrant downtown arts scene, and numerous high alpine adventures. Its downtown Main Street includes numerous restaurants, bars, and shops, and people flock from across Summit County and Colorado to try Breckenridge’s diverse food scene. The town also offers cultural and arts opportunities, including open galleries, arts classes, and multiple museums. Whether you’re looking to explore the mountains, the town’s rich history, or its unique food scene, Breckenridge has a plethora of diverse adventure opportunities for all!

Garden of the Gods' red rock formations with Pike's Peak in the distance.

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, CO

Colorado Springs has long been known as a “must-see” on Colorado travelers’ lists – and not just for all the great outdoor adventure and whitewater rafting near Colorado Springs. Located East of the Pike National Forest, near Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, Old Colorado City, Cave of the Winds among other notable attractions, the area offers numerous opportunities to hike and explore the outdoors of central Colorado.

Pike’s Peak is one of Colorado’s many 14ers, yet one of the most accessible, as visitors can hike, bike, or drive to the top, and the National Landmark of Garden of the Gods provides stunning views of the area’s rock formations and landmarks, framing Pikes Peak in the background. National Geographic also notes Colorado Spring’s Broadmoor Seven Falls on their list of international waterfalls for their stunning scenery and views.

As Colorado’s second largest city and home to three colleges, Colorado Springs also hosts historical and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, the Money Museum or the The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. Colorado Springs also headquarters the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Center and offers tours for the public.

View of lake and flowers on the bank in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Estes Park

Estes Park, CO

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, and visitors can drive the Trail Ridge Road from Estes to Grand Lake with views of the park and the Continental Divide Trail. In the warmer months, opportunities also abound for Whitewater Rafting, Rock Climbing, and Stand-up Paddleboarding.

The town of Estes additionally hosts Lake Estes, with opportunities for boating, fishing, or relaxing. After your outdoor adventure, be sure to check out one of Estes’s restaurants, breweries, or distilleries, or visit a festival or outdoor concert.

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.

Vail Valley in the summertime.

Vail

Vail

Locals and guests in this quaint little town are spoiled with gorgeous surroundings and all the amenities of a bigger city. Winter brings skiing and boarding, yet summer offers endless sunny days and a chance to explore Colorado’s mountains and great outdoors. The White River National Forest and Gore Range surround the area, creating opportunities for hiking, biking and exploring the area’s trails.

The town of Vail has much to offer itself, including a variety of lodging and dining options, along with arts and culture opportunities. Catch a show at the outdoor Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, check out Vail’s festival schedule, or stroll around the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens!

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’s Idaho Springs outpost is conveniently located on historic Main Street in downtown Idaho Springs, just minutes from Interstate 70 and less than an hour from Denver. Our location makes it easy to combine whitewater rafting and outdoor adventures with local restaurants, breweries, and shopping.

The “put-in” is the location where rafting trips begin and boats are launched into the river. One major advantage of AVA’s Idaho Springs outpost is that our Gold Rush rafting trip launches just steps from the outpost itself. Instead of taking a long shuttle ride to the river, guests can walk directly from check-in to the rafting put-in, saving time and getting on the water faster.

AVA offers the convenience of a full-service rafting outpost combined with direct river access. Many rafting companies either meet guests at remote river access points with limited amenities or require long shuttle rides before the trip begins. AVA’s location provides the best of both worlds with gear outfitting, changing areas, guides, and immediate proximity to the river.

Yes. AVA Idaho Springs offers multi-adventure packages that combine rafting with ziplining and aerial adventures for a full day of outdoor fun in the Rocky Mountains.

AVA’s Idaho Springs outpost is located less than an hour from Denver, making it one of the closest whitewater rafting destinations to the city and a perfect option for day trips and weekend adventures.

Discounts up to 25% off on all AVA-run trips, including our brand-new Moab trips. Use promo code: SAVINGS26. Online only. Ends June 30, 2026.