Trip Recommender

Find Your Perfect Adventure

COLORADO RAFTING

Rush the Rapids with AVA

SCROLL

FIND YOUR COLORADO RAFTING ADVENTURE

AVA provides a variety of white water rafting experiences at several locations, ranging from gentle floats to intense Class V rapids. Whether you seek a relaxing and picturesque trip or an adrenaline-packed adventure, a short excursion or a multi-day journey, or even a combination of activities, AVA has something for everyone. Our team can help you choose the best Colorado white water rafting experience for your group, regardless of whether you’re planning a family outing or a birthday party adventure!

OUR TRENDING WHITEWATER RAFTING TRIPS

BROWNS CANYON 1/2 DAY
LOCATION: Buena Vista, CO VIEW MAP
ACTIVITIES: Whitewater Rafting Colorado
DURATION: 1/2 Day
DIFFICULTY: Level 4
RIVER RATING: Class III
MINIMUM AGE: 7 years old
PRICE: from $94 Ages 13+
from $89 Ages 7-12

SCENIC 1/2 DAY FLOAT TRIP
LOCATION: Kremmling, CO VIEW MAP
ACTIVITIES: Whitewater Rafting Colorado
DURATION: 1/2 Day
DIFFICULTY: Level 2
RIVER RATING: Class II
MINIMUM AGE: 2 years old
PRICE: from $89 Ages 13+
from $64 Ages 2-12

THE NUMBERS 1/2 DAY
LOCATION: Buena Vista, CO VIEW MAP
ACTIVITIES: Whitewater Rafting Colorado
DURATION: 1/2 Day
DIFFICULTY: Level 5
RIVER RATING: Class IV
MINIMUM AGE: 15 years old
PRICE: from $104 Ages 15+
(15yrs is the minimum age for this trip)

Still looking for the right trip?

What an AVA Whitewater Rafting Adventure Looks Like

CLICK TO VIEW

Why Choose AVA for your Whitewater Rafting Adventure

25 Years of Adventure Awaits

AVA Rafting & Zipline has been a number one provider of unforgettable outdoor adventures in Colorado for over 25 years, establishing the industry standard for safety, expertise, and guest service. We opened our waters in 1998, beginning with only our whitewater trips on the Arkansas River with a small team and only four boats. Our commitment to safety, customer service, and environmental sustainability has allowed us to expand to other outdoor adventure opportunities and locations, as well as earned us numerous awards, including the Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence for three consecutive years, Best Whitewater Guide in Elevation, Outdoor's Best of the Rockies, and Tripadvisor's Travelers' Choice for two consecutive years.

Your Safety, Our Priority

At AVA Rafting & Zipline, safety is our top priority. Our expert guides are extensively trained and have exceeded industry standards and legal requirements for training before they lead you on your adventure. All of our guides are CPR and First Aid certified and receive expert training in emergency preparedness. On every trip, we equip our guides with curated first aid kits and rescue hardware, and we use high-quality safety equipment that is frequently inspected. With a focus on anticipating and avoiding outdoor emergencies, our highly qualified guides are the safest part of your adventure.

Powered by Passion

At AVA Rafting & Zipline, our team is fueled by a deep love for Colorado's beautiful outdoors, thrilling adventure experiences, and exceptional guest service. Our experienced guides are not only trained to safely lead rafting trips, but are professionals we hold to the highest levels of respect and teamwork. They are passionate about what they do and eager to share that enthusiasm with our guests, providing the best adventure experiences across every rafting trip. We believe that a whitewater adventure with AVA will not only thrill and excite but will leave you with a lasting appreciation for Colorado's magnificent outdoors and its ability to inspire and connect.

Your AVA Rafting Adventure

Choosing the perfect trip for your Colorado whitewater adventure can be a daunting task, but AVA Rafting is here to help! Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro, our expert team can guide you through the process. Our rafting trips take place on some of Colorado's most iconic rivers, including the Arkansas, Colorado, and Clear Creek. Each river has its own unique personality, with thrilling half-day and full-day options, overnight trips, Class II-V rapids, and recommended experience levels. Our knowledgeable guides make sure you feel comfortable and ready for your adventure by introducing themselves and teaching you the essentials before your trip begins. They'll go over how to hold your paddle, commands for navigation, and any swimming techniques you might need if you decide to take a dip in the river.

Your AVA Whitewater Rafting Guide

COLORADO'S WHITEWATER RIVERS

AVA Rafting & Zipline has an exciting selection of river trips, all easily accessible and located just 1-2 hours from Denver! Our Clear Creek outpost, located in Idaho Springs offers both mild and wild class II-V rapids against a stunning Rocky Mountain backdrop. For even more adventure, head to the Arkansas River from our Buena Vista outpost, a two-hour drive from Denver, where you can experience every class of whitewater, perfect for families or intense thrill seekers. At our Kremmling outpost, two hours west of Denver, experience a peaceful journey down the Colorado River, complete with scenic views and paddleboarding and fly-fishing tours. And don't miss the Blue River in Silverthorne, where families and first-timers can enjoy a fun whitewater excursion on a shorter adventure.

RIVER CLASSES + DIFFICULTY LEVELS

When it comes to whitewater rafting, rapids vary from class I through class V, according to their level of difficulty. Class I rapids are gentle and easy, while class V rapids are extremely challenging and potentially hazardous. At AVA Rafting & Zipline, we have six levels of rafting adventures that you can choose from based on your desired level of physical activity and difficulty. Levels 1 and 2 are suitable for all ages and require minimal physical exertion, while level 3 requires some physical effort and has age minimums of 5-10 years. For level 4, guests must be willing to reach a slightly higher level of exertion and meet age minimums of 7-12 years. Level 5 is even more challenging and has age minimums of 12-15 years, while level 6 is the most intense and requires guests to be highly physically active with a minimum age of 15 years.

DESTINATIONS

For those looking for a thrilling whitewater rafting experience, AVA Rafting has you covered with our three primary outposts conveniently located in Idaho Springs, Kremmling, and Buena Vista. Our Idaho Springs outpost, a quick 40-minute drive from Denver, is perfect for a day trip getaway with exciting rafting on Clear Creek. Our Kremmling outpost, located 2 hours west of Denver, offers a more relaxed rafting experience. For those seeking the ultimate adventure, our Buena Vista outpost is just 2 hours southwest of Denver and offers every level of rafting available. Whether you're headed to Denver, Aspen, Vail, Steamboat, Estes Park, CO Springs, or any other of Colorado's beautiful destinations, you're never more than a day trip away from experiencing an unforgettable adventure with AVA Rafting.

Fine tune your Adventure

When planning your adventure with AVA, there are several important factors to consider beyond just the river and difficulty level. We offer a range of trip durations, from half-day to multi-day camping experiences, and a variety of adventure packages, such as ziplining, Via Ferrata, and rock climbing, to enhance your rafting experience. Bringing the family along? AVA offers special family-friendly rafting trips and has specific age minimums for each level of rapids. If you need help deciding which trip is right for you, we provide detailed trip descriptions and helpful videos throughout our site. You can also contact us anytime at 1-877-RAFTING to book your trip or receive recommendations based on your needs.

Rivers Information + Trips

Arkansas River Info & Whitewater Rafting Trips

Located in central Colorado, our Buena Vista outpost is the perfect launch point for thrilling whitewater rafting tours on the Arkansas River, one of the most renowned rafting destinations in Colorado. With its famous Browns Canyon National Monument stretch, the Arkansas River offers a range of experiences for different skill levels, and its dam-controlled waters ensure predictability year after year. From half-day trips to epic overnight adventures, the Arkansas River offers diverse rafting options that are sure to be a highlight of your Colorado vacation.

VIEW ARKANSAS RIVER TRIPS
CHECK OUR VIDEOS
CURRENT WATER LEVELS

Clear Creek Info & Whitewater Rafting Trips

Clear Creek is a top destination for whitewater rafting, located only 30 minutes from Denver, Colorado's capital city. The river flows through the picturesque foothills of the Rocky Mountains and offers a variety of stunning scenery, including the historic town where the Gold Rush began. Clear Creek is a dynamic river with a range of difficulties suitable for all levels of experience, from beginner-friendly sections to more challenging stretches. Additionally, we offer packages that combine rafting with exclusive guided access to our thrilling "cliffside" zipline and Via Ferrata courses.

VIEW TRIPS
CHECK OUR VIDEOS
CURRENT WATER LEVELS

Colorado River Info & Whitewater Rafting Trips

Embark on a Colorado River adventure from our Kremmling outpost, exclusively reserved for AVA guests. Situated an hour away from Breckenridge, this rafting location boasts stunning mountain views, exciting rapids, and gentle floats suitable for all ages. You can also choose to explore the river in a ducky or try stand-up paddleboarding for a unique experience. If fishing is more your style, we offer guided fly fishing tours, floats, all-inclusive overnight trips, and gear rentals. Get ready to immerse yourself in nature and have an unforgettable time with AVA.

VIEW TRIPS
CHECK OUR VIDEOS
CURRENT WATER LEVELS

Blue River Info & Whitewater Rafting Trips

The Blue River, known for its elusive nature, flows through the beautiful towns of Frisco, Keystone, and Breckenridge. To experience this river, you need the perfect combination of snowpack and the right conditions, making it a treat for those who get the chance to go rafting on it. Rafting on the Blue River offers a breathtaking way to explore the mountains, and it's suitable for all levels of rafters.

VIEW TRIPS
CHECK OUR VIDEOS
CURRENT WATER LEVELS

Rush into the Rapids

Your Packing List

For your AVA rafting trip, we'll provide all the essential gear, including a wetsuit, splash jacket, life jacket, paddle, and helmet. We've got you covered, so all you need to bring is appropriate footwear that can get wet and stay on your feet, quick-drying clothing such as fleece, waterproof sunscreen, secure sunglasses, and a towel.

Our watches are set to adventure

At AVA, we value your time, and we kindly request that you arrive at your outpost 15 minutes prior to your scheduled trip time to ensure that your adventure starts on time. If for any reason you're running late, we will do our best to accommodate you on the next available trip. If that's not possible, you'll receive an open credit worth 85% of your adventure's total cost, valid for the current season. Once you arrive, our welcoming staff will guide you through the check-in process and provide you with all the necessary safety information. Please be sure to sign your liability waiver ahead of time and double-check your confirmation to ensure you're headed to the right outpost.

Riverside Requirements

When it comes to choosing a whitewater rafting trip in Colorado, there are several factors to consider. At AVA, we want to make sure you find the perfect trip for your skill level and interests. We offer a range of trips with varying levels of difficulty and minimum age/weight requirements. If you're new to rafting or have young children, our Colorado River float trips are a great option. For more adventurous trips, it's important to consider your group's fitness level and ability to paddle together. Check out our FAQs page for more information and visit our website to learn more about our rafting difficulty levels and river classifications.

Leave Nothing but Memories

At the end of your adventure, you'll return to our outpost with your guide and have the opportunity to browse and purchase photos from your trip, so you can take home memories of your adventure! We also offer a variety of apparel and souvenirs for sale. If you had a great time with your guide, please consider leaving a review or tipping them, as they appreciate the recognition. We hope your AVA adventure becomes a highlight of your summer, and we look forward to seeing you again on the water or up in the trees!

Rafting Packages

AVA became a staple in Colorado’s adventure outfitters with whitewater rafting 20 years ago, and we continue to power along 8 rivers across the state of Colorado. Don’t feel like you have to be tied down to just a whitewater trip; you can get involved in numerous amounts of activities with AVA, including our Via Ferrata tours. If you want a getaway just 30 minutes from the Denver area, Idaho Springs is home to plenty of excursions, including ziplining, the Mount Evans Via Ferrata, and all levels of whitewater. Head further into the Rockies to our Buena Vista location, where you can combine rock climbing, ziplining, or a Via Ferrata with the most famous whitewater in the country on the Arkansas River. The possibilities are endless!

BOOK OR QUOTE NOW

Rafting + Via Ferrata

If you’ve made it this far, we’ll bet you’re up for a challenge. AVA’s Rafting + Via Ferrata trips are meant for just that. Find yourself traversing among the mountaintops on one of two Via Ferrata courses in Idaho Springs or Buena Vista, then battle your way along Colorado’s whitewater rapids.

Rafting + Via Ferrata + Cabin

Make your way into the Rockies for a true mountain experience out of AVA’s Buena Vista outpost. Our Via Ferrata is situated along the base of 14,000+ foot Collegiate Peaks, and the Arkansas River is home to some of the most famous whitewater rapids in the country. Plus, with this package, you’ll get to crash in a cozy rustic miner cabin before or after your adventure.

Rafting + Via Ferrata + Camping

This great combo of excitement and adventure will have you smiling ear to ear all the way home. Choose between mild and scenic stretches of the Arkansas River to heart pumping Class V rapids, then navigate your way along the cliffside above the valley. Our campsites are located at our outpost, so you can hang out all weekend and not worry about transportation.

Rafting + Ziplining

Book yourself a wonderful time surrounded by the beauty of Colorado. Our job is to make your experience unforgettable, and with a raft and zipline package you’re sure to have the time of your life. Whether you’re visiting Colorado from out of state or the Rockies are your backyard, a mountain getaway is always a great weekend retreat from the hustle of the city.

Rafting + Rock Climbing

The views as you navigate the granite cliff face above Buena Vista will have you speechless, then you’ll get to indulge in one of Colorado’s favorite past times. Explore the Arkansas River Valley and where it all started with AVA.

01

02

03

04

05

06