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About this Experience

What you'll do:

This guided rafting trip on either the Upper Colorado River (Beginner/Class I or II) or the Blue River (Intermediate/Class III) is a favorite way to connect with friends and family while enjoying Colorado’s natural beauty. The rivers wind through a diverse landscape of meadows, valleys, ranch lands, and dramatic canyon walls, offering stunning views along the way. Wildlife sightings are common, with bald eagles, deer, beavers, and bighorn sheep often making appearances. The rapids on the Upper Colorado River are mostly mild Class I-II, with occasional Class III waves during higher water flows, making the trip suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities. The Blue River is a splashier, faster trip, with more coordinated paddling required. Both adventures are fully guided, allowing you to relax and soak in the scenery. It's an exciting and fun way for groups to experience the beauty of Colorado's outdoors together.

Why we love it for your party:

  • Scenic and wildlife-rich landscape offers a shared experience of nature that’s both relaxing and exciting.

  • Family-friendly rapids make it safe and enjoyable for groups with varying ages and adventure spirit.

  • Fully guided adventure means no stress—just paddling, laughter, and quality time on the river.

About this experience partner:

Colorado Adventure Guides and Colorado Rafting Company delivers four seasons of outdoor adventure and education. With operations in seven USFS and BLM ranger districts, we serve a dynamic and growing population of outdoor enthusiasts.

Additional Information:

  • Itinerary

    • Meet at designated meeting location for each river:

    • Trips leave twice daily at approximately 8:45 AM or 11:30 AM for the Blue River. On the Colorado River we leave daily at 9 AM and 1:30 PM. See your confirmation email for details.

    • Gear up & meet your guide(s)

    • Shuttle ride to put-in location

    • River time with fun and rapids

    • Arrive at your take-out location

    • Shuttle back meeting point

  • Trip Package Includes

    • CRC professional and certified rafting guides

    • All safety & rafting equipment

    • Transportation from designated meeting place to the put-in

    • A fun-filled experience!

  • Trip Package Does Not Include

    • Lodging

    • Clothing (See recommended gear under FAQs)

    • Insurance (Trip or Rescue)

    • Guide Gratuity

View Map

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View Map

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Location

Denver, CO

Select package to view address

4199 Trough Rd, Bond, CO 80423, USA

Cancellation Policy

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generous Cancellation Policy

Full refund on cancellations with 7+ days notice. No refund within 7 day window.

Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What season is best for rafting on the Colorado River or the Blue River?

For those seeking intense and dynamic rapids, the period from mid-June to early July, known for high water levels, is perfect. During this time, the rivers surge to their fullest, offering an exhilarating ride for even the most experienced rafters, although some parts may temporarily close due to extreme conditions. If a more laid-back adventure is what you seek, consider the regular season for the Upper Colorado River is from mid-May to late August, which typically features gentler waters ideal for relaxed rafting. September brings amazing fall colors to the river and its shores. Remember that water levels and weather can be unpredictable, so pick a date that aligns with your group’s comfort and readiness for unexpected twists. There’s truly no bad time to embark on a Colorado River rafting trip; each season delivers a distinct and unforgettable journey.

Any age limits?

Yes. We have a minimum age of 5 years old and 50 lbs for the Colorado River trips. During times of high water, we typically bump the minimum age to 7 years old. For all stand up paddleboard and inflatable kayaks participants must be at least 12 years old. For the Blue River, the minimum age is 6. Guests 18 and up can go on their own, younger participants need permission of their guardian.

Some in our party can't swim. Can they still go rafting?

No worries! You can enjoy a thrilling rafting trip even if you’re not a swimmer. Every guest is equipped with a Type-V Coast Guard-approved life jacket, designed to keep you safely afloat on your back with your head above water if you come out of the raft. Before heading out, you’ll receive a full safety orientation, including instructions on how to use the life jacket properly. While knowing how to swim can be beneficial in some of the river’s more intense sections, it’s not a requirement for most trips.

Should we tip our guides?

Our guides work hard to make your Colorado River rafting experience enjoyable and memorable, earning a base wage similar to a bartender or server. A tip of 15-20% is a thoughtful way to show appreciation for their dedication, especially if they provided a safe, fun, and informative trip. If you feel they went above and beyond, a tip is a great way to express your gratitude. However, if your experience fell short of expectations, please let our management know. Your feedback is invaluable, helping us maintain top-tier service and ensure future guests have the best possible rafting adventure.

What do I wear rafting?

For Blue River trips, we will provide a wetsuit and helmet. For a comfortable and safe rafting trip on the Colorado River, it’s best to avoid cotton clothing since it absorbs water and can sap warmth from your body. Instead, opt for bathing suits, shorts, or quick-drying, long-sleeved and long-legged clothing. Secure footwear like water sandals or tennis shoes are essential—flip-flops and Crocs won’t stay on! Towels are best left in your vehicle, as there’s no way to keep them dry on the river. For the best rafting experience, choose materials like wool, polypro, fleece, microfiber, or polyester, and wear waterproof jackets that dry quickly. Keep in mind, space is limited on the raft, so only bring what you’re wearing. Personal flotation devices (PFDs) are included for all rafting adventures. If you have any questions, feel free to call us—we’re here to help you prepare for an unforgettable day on the river!

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Is rafting dangerous?

Our guides are rigorously trained, certified by the state of Colorado, and skilled in first aid and CPR to ensure a safe rafting adventure. Rafting is an exciting sport but comes with inherent risks, and while we take every precaution to create a safe, enjoyable experience, participants are responsible for their own belongings and personal safety. It’s essential to select a trip that aligns with your group’s skill level and comfort. To maintain the highest safety standards, Colorado Rafting Company/Colorado Adventure Guides requires all participants to review and sign a liability waiver before embarking on the trip. Participants under 18 need a waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian. Additionally, relevant health information must be provided to guides. It remains confidential and is only shared in emergencies. We also require that emergency contacts be individuals over 18 who are not participating in the same rafting adventure. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities, so you can focus on enjoying an unforgettable day on the river.

Do you cancel for weather?

Weather along in the Rocky Mountains can be highly unpredictable, changing from mile to mile and minute to minute. However, with Colorado averaging over 300 days of sunshine a year, the odds are in your favor for great rafting conditions. We operate our rafting adventures in all weather, rain or shine. Remember, you’re going to get wet rafting, even on the sunniest days! Please note that weather is not a cause for cancellation of our rafting trips.

What are the trip starting locations?

Our boathouse for the Blue River trip is Colorado Adventure Guides, 204 Ryan Gulch Road, Silverthorne, CO 80498. The starting point for Upper Colorado River trips is: Rancho del Rio, 4199 Trough Rd, Bond, CO 80423.

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