Best Time To Raft

The Best Time to Go Rafting in Colorado in 2025

The best time to raft in Colorado is between May – September. It’s possible to raft in Colorado starting in the early spring all the way through early fall, and the best trip for you could fall at anytime throughout depending on what experience you are looking for on the river.  Colorado Rivers fluctuate throughout the season and from year to year. Therefore, the best time to raft can range depending on what you group wants, and what month you are rafting. Our rivers our fed by melting snow, so conditions are variable depending on the amount of snow that each region received the winter before rafting season.

What to Expect During Each Rafting Month

May Rafting

May is great time to go rafting in Colorado to avoid crowds and typically high water. We offer rafting on the following rivers in May:

June Rafting

June is a common month to raft in Colorado. Typically, we see peak run-off happen in June which means higher water. We offer rafting on the following rivers in June but the age minimums typically increase at some point during the month.

July Rafting

This is the most popular time to raft in Colorado. Typically, water levels start to decrease and age minimums go back to their listed number. The following trips are typically offered during the month of July:

August & September Rafting

August and September bring less crowds and tamer water. This is the perfect time to raft to really take in the Colorado scenery. The following trips are typically offered at this time:

Colorado Whitewater Rafting Locations

  1. Buena Vista

  2. Idaho Springs

  3. Kremmling

  4. Breckenridge

How to Choose the Right Trip for Your Group

Best Rafting for Families with Kids

The best time to raft for families with kids is between July and September, however, there are plenty of trip options in May & June such as the Upper Colorado River. We recommend the following trips for kids at the following ages throughout the entire summer:

  • Kids between the age 2-4: Upper Colorado River Trips
  • Kids age 5: Blue River and Upper Colorado River Trips
  • Kids age 6: Clear Creek, Blue River, and Upper Colorado River Trips
  • Kids between the age of 7-11: Arkansas River, Clear Creek, Blue River, Upper Colorado River Trips + ziplining packages
  • Kids between age 12-14: Same as 7-11 + Via Ferrata packages
  • Those 15+: All trips on all rivers
*Minimum ages are subject to change based on water levels.

Best Rafting Season for Relaxing Experiences

The best time to raft for a relaxing experience is between July and September, however, there are plenty of trip options in May & June such as the Upper Colorado River. If you are looking for a more leisurely experience for your group sit back, relax, and enjoy the incredible scenery, then the following river trips are best for your group.

  • Scenic Float Full Day Rafting on the Upper Colorado River
  • Scenic Float Half Day Rafting on the Upper Colorado River
  • 24 Hours on the Upper Colorado River
  • 3 Day Upper Colorado River Float
*Age minimum for all of these trips are 2 years+

Best Time to Raft for Adventure Seekers

The best time to raft for families with kids is between the end of May until Mid July. However, there are plenty of trip options the entire summer to get your adrenaline pumping. If you are looking for an adrenaline rush for your rafting trip, then the following rivers and trips are best for your group.

  • Clear Creek River
  • The Blue River
  • The Arkansas River
  • Stand Up Paddle Boarding and Kayaking on the Upper Colorado River

Best Time to Raft for Experiences Rafters

The best time to raft for experienced rafters is typically June. However, those who have never rafted before can also raft in June just different sections of each river. If you have been out on the river a few times before, and you are looking to work hard and go out on the hardest rapids that Colorado has to offer then the following rivers are the best for you to visit.

  • Clear Creek River
  • The Arkansas River

How will High Water Affect My Rafting Trip in 2024

MINIMUM AGE

Minimum ages can be increased during high water. We have trips that allow rafters as young as 2, so if the age is increased we will have a different trip to offer your group.

RIVER CLOSURES

Certain sections of the river can be closed due to high water. Typically they close because we cannot get under bridges, the water floods over the banks, or dangerous conditions can occur. If this occurs during your 2019 rafting trip, we can move you to a different section of water that is not closed at that time.

Looking for a more Customized Answer?

NOT QUITE SURE WHICH ADVENTURE OR TRIP IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Give our Trip Specialists a call to build your perfect adventure: 1-800-370-0581