Rappel into the Gauntlet
On this full-day whitewater rafting adventure, we’ll get your adrenaline flowing beginning with a rappel into the Granite Gorge! You’ll meet your raft for The Gauntlet as you head out for rafting the Pine Creek & The Numbers section.
The Highlights Of Your Trip
Join us on one of the most intense whitewater rafting experiences in the state. Perfect for adrenaline seekers, more experienced rafters, or beginners looking for a challenge, this unique combination of rappelling and rafting won’t disappoint.
The Arkansas River is officially flowing for the 2026 season, and Browns Canyon is shaping up for a fun year on the water. With this year’s Colorado snowpack, flows are coming in at more manageable and technical levels compared to some recent high-water seasons, making it an awesome time for families, first-timers, and experienced paddlers alike. Trips on other sections of the Arkansas are also available to book, and our team will keep you updated on current river conditions and any trip options as your adventure gets closer.
Book this trip
How much
Pricing
From $274
Ages 15+
What's included
Activities
- Rock Climbing
- Rafting
Trip Length
Duration
Full day, includes lunch
How Hard
Difficulty
Who can go
Minimum Age
15 years old & Up
What an AVA RAPPEL INTO THE GAUNTLET looks like
What to Expect on Your Whitewater Rafting Adventure
Trip Overview
On this full-day adventure, we’ll get your adrenaline flowing from the start with a 75-foot rappel into the Granite Gorge. You’ll cruise down the cliff face, landing directly in your awaiting raft!
After this rappel, you’ll launch into the most advanced rafting offered on the Arkansas River in Colorado. The gauntlet sections of the Arkansas River: Pine Creek and The Numbers represent some of the most intense rafting in the state. The Gauntlet is full of Class III-V rapids and is the steepest and most continuous whitewater on the Arkansas River.
AVA runs more guests down these sections of the Arkansas River than any other company in Colorado, so you’re in good hands with highly experienced and safe river guides! This trip is also optional without the rappel for those wishing to start directly on the river.
Highlights
- Start your day with a 75-foot rappel to your rafting waiting on the river
- Features steepest rapid in the state of Colorado
- Most advanced section of Arkansas River white water rafting
- Full day advanced rafting
- Approximately 12 miles of travel down river
- Lunch included
- Experienced raft guides
Trip Itinerary
- Meet at our Buena Vista Outpost
- Gear up with your guide and head out to the rappel
- Rappel down to your awaiting raft
- Load up the raft & embark on the mighty Pine Creek section
- Continue on to experience more intense whitewater
- Enjoy lunch and refuel
- Shuttle back to the outpost
- View the photos from your trip
Included Gear and Packing List
All of your gear will be provided for your rafting excursion. This includes:
- PFD
- Wetsuit
- Splash jacket
- Helmet
WHAT TO BRING
- Shoes that will stay securely on your feet… no flip flops or crocs!
- Fleece and/or quick dry clothing
- Waterproof sunscreen & sunglasses
- Cash to tip your raft guide
Trip Location
Buena Vista South Main
924 South Main Street
Buena Vista, CO 81211
924 South Main Street, Buena Vista, CO 81211 is our rafting address. If you’re visiting for ziplining or via ferrata, make sure to use our 40579 US-24, Buena Vista, CO 81211 address.
Experience whitewater rafting in Buena Vista from AVA’s South Main outpost, located just steps from the Arkansas River in the heart of downtown Buena Vista. With easy access to Browns Canyon and family-friendly river float trips and family-friendly float trips, this location puts you close to some of Colorado’s best rafting adventures while surrounded by the energy of South Main, the Surf Hotel, Eddyline Brewery, and the Buena Vista Whitewater Park. Whether you are looking for exciting rapids or a scenic day on the river, AVA’s Buena Vista rafting trips deliver the perfect Colorado adventure.
From our Buena Vista outpost, experience some of Colorado’s best outdoor adventures with whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River, ziplining, Via Ferrata, rock climbing, horseback riding, and more. Located in the heart of South Main near the Buena Vista Whitewater Park, our outpost is the perfect starting point for a full day in the mountains. Looking to maximize your adventure? Our multi-adventure packages let you combine multiple activities into one unforgettable Colorado experience filled with scenic views, exciting action, and time on the river.
AVA’s Buena Vista Gold Coast Outpost is located just over an hour from Summit County and under two and a half hours from Denver, Colorado.
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