Low Water on the Arkansas River? Here’s What We’re Running Instead.

If you’ve been researching rafting trips in Colorado this summer, you’ve probably heard that river levels are lower than normal in some sections of the Arkansas River.

Low water doesn’t mean rafting is over. In fact, there are still plenty of great trips running. What it does mean is that some outfitters have had to make changes to where they put on and take off the river.

As conditions change throughout the season, it’s worth asking exactly what section of river you’re booking and how much time you’ll actually spend on the water.

Not All “Browns Canyon” Trips Are the Same

Browns Canyon is Colorado’s most famous rafting destination for a reason. The granite canyon walls, exciting Class III rapids, mountain scenery, and remote wilderness feel make it one of the best rafting trips in the state.

During lower water periods, some companies may shorten their Browns Canyon trips or move to different sections of river to maintain operations.

There’s nothing wrong with adjusting to river conditions. That’s part of rafting. However, we believe guests deserve to know exactly what they’re getting before they book.

Questions worth asking include:

• How many miles of river will we raft?
• How long will we actually be on the water?
• Is this the traditional Browns Canyon route?
• If not, what section are we running instead?

The answers can vary significantly from company to company during low-water years.

Our Alternative: Bear Creek

At Monumental Expeditions, we’ve been recommending our Bear Creek trip as an alternative for guests looking for a true half-day rafting experience.

Bear Creek offers:

• Approximately 9 miles of river
• More than 2 hours on the water
• Class II and III rapids
• Beautiful canyon scenery
• Excellent opportunities to swim, explore, and enjoy the river

Many guests are surprised by how much they enjoy this section. It’s scenic, fun, family-friendly, and offers a longer river experience than some shortened low-water alternatives.

It’s also one of our favorite stretches of river to guide.

Why We Like Bear Creek

One of the best parts of Bear Creek is the variety.

You’ll paddle through mountain scenery, splash through fun rapids, and finish in an area where guests often enjoy swimming, exploring along the shoreline, and even jumping from riverside rocks when conditions allow.

For families, first-time rafters, and anyone looking for a classic Colorado rafting experience, it’s hard to beat.

The Right Trip Matters More Than the Name

When planning a rafting trip, it’s easy to focus on the name of the section.

But what matters most is the actual experience:

• Time on the water
• Quality of rapids
• Scenic value
• Group size
• Overall trip experience

As a small family-run company, we focus on putting guests on the trip that will give them the best day on the river, not simply the most recognizable name.

Questions? Give Us a Call.

River conditions change throughout the season, and we’re always happy to explain what’s running, what conditions look like, and which trip is the best fit for your group.

Whether you’re interested in Browns Canyon, Bear Creek, Salida Valley, or The Numbers, we’ll help you find the right adventure for your family.

We’d rather help you choose the right trip than book something that isn’t what you expected.

That’s the advantage of rafting with a small company that’s still run by the owners and people that have been on the river for over 25 years.