DOG-FRIENDLY
RAFTING
BRING THE
WHOLE CREW
If most of your vacation planning starts with "Can we bring the dog?" you've found the right page.
Monumental Expeditions offers specially arranged dog-friendly rafting on select Arkansas River trips. Because we're a small rafting company, we have some flexibility to plan a trip around your group and dog.
It does require more planning than a normal reservation. We look at your dog's temperament, the people in your group, the river section, water levels, weather, and the overall trip before approving it.
A LITTLE DIFFERENT
FROM A NORMAL TRIP
Dog-friendly rafting is still rafting. We just make a few additional arrangements before everyone gets on the water.
CALL FIRST
Tell us about your dog, your group, and the kind of rafting you're looking for.
WE CHECK THE FIT
We consider temperament, river conditions, group experience, and the available sections.
WE SET UP THE TRIP
Most dog trips use an oar-frame setup. Other arrangements may be possible depending on the trip and conditions.
DOG = ONE GUEST
Your dog is charged the same rate as one person because the trip requires dedicated raft space and additional planning.
DOG RAFTING
SAFETY
A dog changes how people move around the raft, so we treat dog trips a little differently.
BEST RAFTING TRIPS
FOR DOGS
Salida Valley is usually our first recommendation. Other sections may work depending on your dog, your group, and current river conditions.
BEST CHOICE
SALIDA VALLEY
Our first choice for many dogs. Gentler water, open scenery, and a relaxed pace make this the easiest place to introduce a dog to rafting.
EXPLORE SALIDA VALLEY ›
MORE SPLASH
BEAR CREEK
A step up in excitement. Bear Creek may be available for confident dogs and appropriate groups when conditions are right.
EXPLORE BEAR CREEK ›
MORE DEMANDING
BROWNS CANYON
We've taken dogs through Browns Canyon, but it is a more demanding dog trip. Approval depends heavily on the dog, group, and current river conditions.
EXPLORE BROWNS CANYON ›
IS YOUR DOG A
GOOD RAFTING DOG?
Temperament matters much more than size or breed. Some dogs think rafting is the greatest thing ever. Others would much rather stay on dry land.
A GOOD CANDIDATE
WHAT TO
BRING
Dog rafting doesn't require a mountain of extra gear. A few basics make the day much easier.
We'll talk through anything trip-specific when your dog-friendly reservation is arranged.
DOG-FRIENDLY
RAFTING FAQ
Can I just book online and bring my dog?
No. Please call us before booking. Every dog-friendly trip must be approved and arranged in advance.
How much does it cost to bring my dog?
Dogs are charged the same rate as one guest because dog-friendly trips require dedicated raft capacity and additional arrangements.
Does my dog need a life jacket?
Yes. A properly fitted canine PFD is required while your dog is rafting.
Do dog trips always use an oar-frame raft?
Most dog trips use an oar-frame setup because it gives the guide direct control of the raft. Depending on the river section, group, and conditions, other arrangements may occasionally be possible.
Can my dog go through Browns Canyon?
Sometimes. Browns Canyon is a more demanding dog trip, so approval depends on the dog, group, river level, weather, and current conditions.
What's the best rafting trip for a dog?
Salida Valley is generally our first recommendation because of its gentler Class I-II water and relaxed pace. Bear Creek and Browns Canyon may be available depending on the dog and conditions.
Can dogs raft The Numbers?
No. Dogs are not permitted on our Class IV Numbers trip.
Does my dog need a waiver?
Yes. Approved dogs must have a completed dog waiver before rafting.
Can I attach my dog's leash to the raft?
No. A dog's leash should never be attached to the raft. Your guide will explain when the dog should be leashed and how to manage it safely.
READY TO RAFT
WITH YOUR DOG?
Give us a call before booking. We'll talk about your dog, your group, current river conditions, and which trip makes the most sense.
