Colorado Whitewater Rafting Deals

Some of the best whitewater rafting in the United States in Colorado. The state has everything from fun Class II rapids that are perfect for families, young children and older adventure-seekers to thrilling Class V rapids that will get your blood pumping. Some of the most popular whitewater rapids are less than an hour from downtown Denver near Idaho Springs. To the south, there are great sections near Canon City, Buena Vista and Salida. There’s also exciting runs higher in the mountains and further west in Glenwood Springs and Steamboat.

Whitewater rafting season in Colorado starts in late April as the warmer weather begins to melt the massive snowpack in the Rocky Mountains. The best rafting usually occurs from June through August, when the rivers are roaring in spots and more calm in other sections. Late-season rafting can stretch into late September and still offers plenty of excitement.

Whitewater rafting packages can vary depending on where you want to raft and when you want to go. You can also save significantly by booking a group trip with eight or more passengers. There are several discounts, deals, vouchers and promo codes offered at destinationdeals.com that can save you money on whitewater rafting excursions at top locations in Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona and more!

Colorado presents excellent whitewater outings all over the state. Some of the best whitewater rafting is less than an hour from downtown Denver near Idaho Springs, just west of the Mile-High City along Interstate 70. There are also prime sections of whitewater to the south near Salida, Buena Vista and Canon City. Out west, there’s thrilling sections for whitewater rafting near Salida, Glenwood Springs and Steamboat.

Performance Tours has more than 30 years of experience running the rapids near Colorado Springs. There are amazing sections near Buena Vista, Canon City and Salida that are fun for newbies as well as parts that can be more challenging if you’re up for it. Performance Tours routinely offers discounts for savings on whitewater rafting at destinationdeals.com.

Looking for some day-trip thrills on the water? Just head west along Interstate 70 from downtown Denver and you’ll run up on some prime spots in less than an hour near Idaho Springs. Performance Tours has a wide variety of trips ranging from mellow, family-style floats to some of the biggest and most advanced rapids in Colorado. Save on whitewater adventures with a discount or promo code from destinationdeals.com.

Pack light, but start with a swimsuit (one-piece for women), sunglasses, comfy footwear and socks. (Avoid Crocs and flip-flops, and opt for an old pair of shoes.) Pack waterproof layers. More loose clothing like fleece and micro fleece, wool, and polyester and poly-blends are recommended because they dry quickly. Stay away from cotton. Bring a towel and dry clothes for afterward. Always pack a water bottle and sunscreen!

Prime whitewater rafting is from June through August, on average. But there is great whitewater rafting to be had before and after that timeframe. The traditional whitewater season usually kicks off in late April, gaining momentum through the month of May, hitting its stride in June, July and August. Late-season fun can run through September, depending on water conditions.

Children as young as age 2 can participate in a scenic float with parental supervision, in certain instances. The minimum age for half-day water flows is 5 years old with some whitewater providers. Intermediate-level rafting trips can require children to be at least age 14. It’s always advisable to check with your specific rafting company before you book. All children under age 18 will need a parent or guardian to sign on their behalf.

Yes, but it’s important to plan a whitewater outing that’s right for you and your group's abilities. Rafters must be able to cooperate with their river guide to navigate more challenging Class II, Class III and Class IV rapids. Your rafting guide will take you through a series of exercises to build your confidence and teamwork in the raft before you head out on the river.

Without question, whitewater rafting in Colorado is one of the most family-friendly activities in the state for everyone from young children to senior citizens. There’s nothing quite like getting your whole crew out on the river in a raft - working together to meet a common goal and have a little fun along the way. Colorado rafting guides are often informative, entertaining and downright fun, and they always put safety first.

It’s best to pack an old pair of tennis shoes or sandals for your whitewater trip. Stay away from flip-flops and Crocs because they don’t protect your feet (and toes) enough. An old pair of sneakers are perfect because they will keep your feet safe and there’s no harm if they get a little wet or muddy.

In most cases, you will not be permitted to go rafting if you are pregnant - unless you are only a few weeks along. The Rule of Thumb is to always check with your specific whitewater rafting provider as you are booking your trip. Definitely check before you go so you aren’t disappointed when you get there. Keep in mind that rafting is the ideal family activity only a few years after the baby arrives!

There is no tip amount that’s set in stone. In fact, it’s generally not required, although river rafting experts do enjoy a gratuity for their hard work and expertise from time to time. If you’re taking a full-day or half-day trip, consider a tip in the 15% to 25% range with a bonus for those who go the extra mile for you. You can also formulate a tip based on how many people are in your group, if that’s easier.

Yes! Many outfitters have excellent whitewater opportunities for disbaled individuals with very little extra planning involved. For starters, consider a more mild Class II rapid and work your way up to a more exciting Class III section. The more you learn about rafting and master the art of paddling and working as a team, you’ll be heading down breathtaking Class IV sections in no time. Keep in mind, there may be age limits for specific sections of the river, so always check with your outfitter during the trip planning process.

Yes! Whitewater rafting is a great way to meet new people. Generally, there are six or seven people in each raft, along with a guide/instructor. For the best whitewater experience, it’s always advisable to have a full raft, so groups and individuals may be placed together for a trip down the river. By working together, laughing and sharing a memorable experience, you’re sure to make some new friends quickly!

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is not raftable at the present time due to its numerous difficult portages and highly technical nature. Just west of Gunnison National Park, there is prime rafting in Gunnison Gorge.

You don’t have to know how to swim to go whitewater rafting, although it’s a plus if you do know how. When you go whitewater rafting, you’ll first receive a life vest and get instruction on how to properly put it on and secure it in place. If you do end up in the water, don’t worry: you’ll float. Your raft will be led by an experienced and well-trained guide who will help put you at ease (and keep an eye on you) if you’re feeling apprehensive.

Before you head out on the water, every member of your rafting team (six or seven rafters plus a guide) will receive instructions on paddling and how to navigate the waters as a team. From time to time, you may encounter more treacherous sections where there is a possibility you might get wet. Following your guide’s instruction, paddling correctly and in unison, and holding on tightly should ensure you remain safely inside the raft.

Most whitewater rafts carry eight people, consisting of seven passengers and a guide. Rafts can operate with fewer passengers, but it makes it tougher to navigate the water since everyone is expected to paddle (except small children). Some rafting outfitters may have rafts that seat more or less passengers. If there are fewer than six or seven passengers in your group, you may be paired with other guests to fill a raft.

Securing that memorable Colorado whitewater rafting trip is easier than you think. Start by heading to destinationdeals.com and browse current deals, specials, promo codes, coupons and discounts for savings on every aspect of your whitewater vacation - from hotel and dining discounts to savings on your whitewater adventure. There are also blockbuster exclusive deals that you won’t find anywhere else online! Stack deals and save on every aspect of your whitewater getaway!

The best way to learn the skills involved in whitewater rafting is some on-the-job training! Whitewater rafting is one of those things best learned in person with hands-on instruction from a trained rafting guide. When you arrive at your put-in, your guide will teach you some of the basics involved. Then, it’s time to hit the water to learn firsthand! Don’t worry, it won’t take long for you to master the skill of paddling and navigating the waters.

Most years, the whitewater rafting season begins in late April, hits its peak from June to August, and starts to dwindle in late September. But … there can be excellent rafting into the month of October if conditions are favorable enough. It largely depends on the volume of water remaining in the rivers, and if it’s safe. If those two boxes are a yes, you can rest assured that there’s rafting in October.