Whitewater rafting is a guided river adventure where participants ride in an inflatable raft while navigating moving water and rapids. Trips range from calm, scenic floats with gentle splashes to technical, high-energy runs through continuous whitewater.

Most rafting trips are guided, meaning a professional river guide steers the raft, gives paddle commands, and manages safety throughout the trip. There is also the option for an oar raft which allows guests to just hold. This makes rafting accessible even for people with no prior experience.

Rafting trips typically last half a day or a full day, depending on the river section and water levels. Some rivers also offer multi-day trips that include camping and meals along the river corridor.

One of the most common questions people have is: How intense is rafting, really? The answer depends on the rapid classification system, which rates rapids from Class I to Class VI.

Whitewater Classes Explained

• Class I – Easy
  Calm moving water with small ripples. Minimal paddling required. Great for sightseeing and relaxing floats.

• Class II – Mild
  Small, splashy rapids with clear channels. Fun and approachable for beginners and families.

• Class III – Moderate
  Larger waves, stronger currents, and more frequent rapids. Requires active paddling and following guide commands.

• Class IV – Advanced
  Powerful, technical rapids with precise maneuvering. Best for physically fit participants comfortable with adventure.

• Class V – Expert
  Extremely challenging whitewater with serious hazards. Reserved for expert boaters.

• Class VI – Extreme/Unrunnable
  Considered unsafe and generally not commercially rafted.

Most commercial rafting trips fall between Class I and Class IV, offering a wide range of options for different comfort levels.

Experienced paddlers and adrenaline seekers often choose The Numbers rafting, a continuous stretch of Class IV whitewater that demands teamwork, strength, and focus.

If it’s your first time rafting, knowing what the day looks like helps eliminate uncertainty.

Typical Rafting Trip Flow

1. Check-in and gear fitting
   You’ll receive a life jacket, helmet (if needed), and paddle.

2. Safety briefing
   Guides explain paddling commands, river posture, and what to do if you fall in.

3. Shuttle to the river
   All trips include transportation to and from the river put-in and take-out.

4. On-river adventure
   You’ll paddle through rapids, float calm stretches, and enjoy scenery and wildlife.

5. Take-out and return
   At the end of the trip, you’ll return gear and head back with unforgettable memories.

Trips are designed to be fun, social, and supportive, even for nervous first-timers.

Wearing the right clothing makes a big difference in comfort.

Recommended Rafting Clothing

• Quick-dry shorts or swimsuit

• Synthetic or wool top (avoid cotton)

• Secure water shoes or sandals with straps

• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses with strap, sunscreen)

Optional (Depending on Weather)

• Splash jacket or rain shell

• Wetsuit or splash pants (we provide free of charge)

• Fleece layer for cooler days

Leave valuables behind and expect to get wet—that’s part of the fun.

Many rivers offer rafting trips specifically designed for families with children. These trips focus on gentle rapids, wide channels, and scenic stretches that allow kids to enjoy the experience without overwhelming intensity.

Families with younger children or anyone new to rafting often enjoy a Salida Valley float trip, which combines gentle Class I–II rapids with wide, scenic stretches of river.

For guests who want something more exciting than a float but still beginner-friendly, Bear Creek rafting offers playful rapids and faster-moving water without the intensity of advanced whitewater.

Browns Canyon can also offer a step up from Bear Creek, but still be appropriate for most kids, especially mid to late summer.

Family rafting trips are ideal for:

• First-time rafters

• Kids meeting the minimum age requirement

• Groups looking for a shared outdoor adventure

Always check minimum age and weight requirements, which vary by river section and water levels.

If you’re rafting with kids or joining us for your first river trip, we offer sections designed to be fun, safe, and memorable—without overwhelming intensity.

The best rafting trip depends on your group’s comfort level, physical ability, and sense of adventure.

Ask Yourself:

• Is this your first rafting trip?

• Are kids or non-swimmers in your group?

• Do you want scenic relaxation or adrenaline?

• How physically active do you want to be?

A good outfitter will help match you with the right river section, not just the most intense option.

If you’re looking for a balance of exciting whitewater and incredible scenery, Browns Canyon Rafting is one of the most popular sections on the Arkansas River, offering splashy Class III rapids through a protected canyon.

Rafting season generally runs from spring through summer, with conditions changing throughout the season.

Seasonal Overview

• Spring / Early Summer
  Higher water from snowmelt means bigger waves and more excitement.

• Mid-Summer
  Moderate flows balance fun rapids with accessibility—great for families.

• Late Summer
  Lower water offers technical paddling, clearer channels, and warmer days.

Each time of year has its own advantages, and experienced guides adjust trips to match conditions.

Seasonal snowmelt and weather patterns play a major role in Arkansas River rafting, with spring and summer offering different water levels and rafting experiences.

Every rafting trip on the Arkansas River offers something different. From calm scenic floats to exciting whitewater, choosing the right section depends on your group, comfort level, and sense of adventure.