Top Colorado On the Water

The backcountry of Western Colorado is often unreachable by footpath, making river rafting one of the best ways to soak up the rocky cliffs and canyon views. But many rafting excursions can be intimidating for young or inexperienced travelers. Ideal for the whole family (from young children to grandparents), this 2-hour rafting trip features gentle waves and calm stretches—and lets you spot wildlife and even hop in the water.

Get your adrenaline pumping and take in the views of Colorado's Roaring Fork Valley on this exciting whitewater rafting tour. Join a guide and small group and navigate Class II and III rapids as you float along the Crystal River between Carbondale and Glenwood Springs. Enjoy views of the towering Mount Sopris as well as possible sightings of wildlife.

Raft through the heart of Glenwood Canyon on the Colorado River, where dramatic canyon walls, playful Class II–III rapids, and calm scenic sections come together for a well-rounded on-water experience. Located just minutes from Glenwood Springs and an easy drive from Vail and Beaver Creek, this half-day trip blends excitement with incredible scenery. It’s our most popular option for a reason—offering just the right mix of splashy fun and relaxed floating, making it a great fit for all ages and experience levels.

Experience the excitement of a whitewater rafting adventure on this guided, 3-hour excursion. Choose from a morning or afternoon departure time, then ride along Shoshone Rapids in Glenwood Canyon on the Colorado River. Challenge Class III-IV rapids including Baptism, Tuttle's Tumble, The Wall, Tombstone, Superstition and more. All the necessary rafting equipment, including a life jacket and helmet, are included.

The Clear Creek Classic trip offers fun for the whole family with splashy Class II–III rapids. Total activity time is 2 hours and 30 minutes from meet to return. Paddle through the scenic Clear Creek Canyon near Idaho Springs, surrounded by Colorado’s gold rush history and stunning mountain views. This fun, hands-on adventure is ideal for those looking to get wet and enjoy the outdoors without extreme intensity. Paddling is required, and all trips include safety orientation, paddle instruction, and gear (PFD, helmet, and wetsuit rentals available). A great way to cool off and experience Colorado’s whitewater!

Float with the whole family down the fantastic Arkansas River against the backdrop of the remarkable Rocky Mountains this gentle whitewater rafting excursion. Get a gentle taste of the classic rafting experience, with easy Class II - III rapids. All gear and comprehensive safety briefings are provided, ensuring an exhilarating and unforgettable experience for families.

When it comes to Colorado whitewater, hardly anyone knows about the San Miguel River. Which is kind of a surprise! Given how much fun it is, on top of being in proximity to bougie and beloved Telluride. The rafting section is gorgeously scenic, exciting for all experience levels, and pretty much a must if you want to spend the afternoon like a local. Its red sandstone canyon juxtaposed by flourishing pine forests make for a picturesque setting to recreate on this Rocky Mountain river. Anyone who loves the outdoors will have an absolute hoot on this tour, whether it’s your first or hundredth time rafting. Just ask our guides, most— if not all!— will agree that the San Miguel is their favorite river to run.

Experience the thrill of inflatable kayaking on Durango’s Lower Animas River! This 1/4 day trip lasts 2 hours and 25 minutes round trip, with 1 hour on the water. Navigate exciting Class II rapids and one exhilarating Class III rapid, including “Smelter,” “Santa Rita,” and “Sawmill,” with calmer stretches for scenery and relaxation. Lower water flows in late summer make the rapids even more exciting. No experience is needed—our expert guides provide gear, instruction, and local insights.

Adventures in Whitewater takes pride in providing safe, unique, exciting, and enjoyable white water rafting trips on Colorado's highest quality rivers.

Explore Colorado’s natural playgrounds, just a short drive from downtown Denver. Escape the city and head for the Rockies with a guide to handle the road, so you can focus on the stunning scenery of Mt. Evans, Bear Creek Canyon, and beyond. Get a taste of mountain culture in the charming town of Evergreen, check out the dramatic formations of Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and hike around serene Echo Lake on this half-day mountain sampler.

The Lower Animas River is one of the nation's most accessible rafting trips—a must-do in Durango for a day of family-friendly fun. Your guides can provide a range of options for all comfort levels, from a mild trip for ages 4+ to a Class III trip for an adrenaline-filled ride. No matter your route, you'll get your fair share of beautiful scenery, thrills, and splashes.

Get the lowdown on LoDo on an express tour of Denver’s oldest neighborhood. Both historic and rapidly changing, the district is home to many of the city's hippest bars, restaurants, and hotels. Walk a loop around LoDo’s most important landmark buildings, all while hearing tales from Denver’s Wild West history. Get inside tips on where to dine and drink while in town from a guide who knows the area best.

Get ready for a splash of adventure on the Buena Vista Beginner Family Rafting Trip! Cruise the famous Arkansas River's 'Milk Run', surrounded by the towering Sawatch Range and endless mountain beauty. Perfect for families and first timers, you'll enjoy gentle Class I and II+ rapids with excitement and amazing views at every turn. Our knowledgeable guides share fun stories about the area's geology and wildlife - keep an eye out for Mule Deer and Bighorn Sheep! Your small group adventure includes all required equipment, wetsuits, and a convenient round trip from the meeting spot. With about one hour on the river and guided support every step of the way, this is the perfect way to dip your toes into rafting fun and make Colorado memories together.

The Denver foothills are packed with some of Colorado's best sights, from Red Rocks Amphitheater to Lookout Mountain and scenic Lariat Loop. Throughout this half-day tour from Denver explore the scenic foothills, get panoramic views of the mountain surroundings, and stroll through small, historic towns before stopping in Golden for a coffee or craft beer. It's a quick escape from the big city buzz and a taste of life in the mountains just outside of "Mile High" City.

If you're looking for a rafting trip that's suitable for younger children, this short and mild river tour from Glenwood Springs is the option for you. You'll float through Class II rapids with a guide who provides assistance and instruction while you enjoy the scenery along the river without getting drenched. The tour is designed for families with kids between 2 and 5 years of age.

If you've always wanted to try rafting, grab a paddle for this thrilling half-day whitewater tour through Glenwood Canyon. Expert guides help you navigate the roaring Colorado River, from floating along gentle class I stretches to splashing through exciting class II and III rapids. Along the way, get a new perspective on the canyon’s ancient layers and keep an eye out for Colorado wildlife. This tour is available in English and Spanish.

Explore the stunning Colorado Rockies on an intimate small-group half-day tour led by a local guide. Enjoy scenic drives, short walks at picturesque stops, and breathtaking mountain views. Relax in a comfortable vehicle and experience the tranquility of lesser-known areas. Perfect for connecting with nature and discovering hidden gems.

Climb from the streets of the "Mile High City" to Rocky Mountain National Park, on a day trip that showcases the rugged beauty of Colorado's mountains. Weave through small, historic towns and drive over alpine passes, as you scan the horizon for mountain wildlife such as elk, black bears, or moose.

Eat your way through downtown Denver's ever-changing dining scene on a walking food tour that lets you sample five of the best restaurants in town, all in one afternoon. Discover award-winning eateries, authentic Neapolitan pizza, freshly baked empanadas from a family-owned shop and more. In between bites, learn about Denver's Wild West history and pass landmarks like the baseball field and iconic Union Station.

Leave civilization behind for a few hours on a half-day rafting tour through Royal Gorge. The thrilling 3-hour excursion is the perfect opportunity to combine your love of nature and adventure sports. The class III, IV, and V rapids take you through Sunshine Falls, the Narrows, Sledgehammer, and more. You can leave your camera on dry land, as a professional photographer takes pictures that are available for purchase.

Venture beyond Denver, and discover what Colorado has to offer: on this small-group tour, visit Red Rocks Amphitheatre, the Continental Divide, and the ski resort town of Breckenridge, all in one day. Depart in the morning via comfortable vehicle: you'll explore Red Rocks before taking Loveland Pass along the Continental Divide, and stopping for photos along the way. At Breckenridge, enjoy free time to wander, shop, and eat lunch (own expense).

Head south from Denver on a small group tour to two of Colorado’s most majestic places. First, visit Garden of the Gods, a unique geological area with colossal red rock formations. Then take a drive up Pikes Peak, which inspired the song “America the Beautiful.” Have lunch and enjoy a bit of free time or shopping in the charming town of Manitou Springs, then take a scenic drive through the foothills back to Denver.

Explore the grand scenery of the Rocky Mountains and Colorado’s Wild West history on a small-group bus tour from Denver. Visit the famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre, and encounter descendants of America’s last wild buffalo herd grazing in the foothills. Get panoramic views of Denver and the Front Range from atop Lookout Mountain, drive the Lariat Loop National Scenic Byway, visit the town of Golden, and more.