RAFTING GEAR
WHAT TO WEAR
RAFTING
You do not need to buy or rent a pile of rafting gear before your Arkansas River trip.
Monumental provides the essential river equipment you need at no additional charge.
Bring sensible clothes for the weather, something dry for afterward, and we'll help with the rest when you arrive.
WHAT MONUMENTAL
PROVIDES
We'll fit your equipment before the trip and help decide which additional layers make sense for the conditions that day.
WHAT YOU
SHOULD BRING
You mostly need clothing that can get wet, sun protection, and something dry waiting for you afterward.
You don't need a technical rafting wardrobe. Comfortable outdoor clothing that dries quickly works just fine for most summer trips.
COLORADO WEATHER
CHANGES FAST
A sunny July afternoon and a cool May morning call for very different clothing. You don't need to predict everything perfectly. Bring reasonable layers and we'll help with the river gear.
HOT & SUNNY
A swimsuit or quick-dry shorts and shirt are usually a good starting point. Don't forget sunscreen.
COOL WEATHER
Add synthetic or wool layers that still provide some warmth if they get damp.
COLD WATER
Early-season water can be cold even when the forecast looks pleasant. Wetsuits and splash jackets can make a big difference.
WE'LL ADJUST
Your guide will look at the actual weather and river conditions before deciding what extra gear makes sense.
WHAT NOT
TO WEAR
You don't need expensive technical clothing, but a few choices can make the day much more comfortable.
AVOID COTTON
Cotton absorbs water and loses much of its insulating ability when wet. Synthetic or wool layers are better on cool days.
SKIP LOOSE FOOTWEAR
Flip-flops and loose sandals are easy to lose around moving water. Wear secure footwear or use the river booties we provide.
LEAVE VALUABLES BEHIND
Jewelry, wallets, keys, and other valuables are much safer secured in your vehicle than riding through a rapid.
IF YOU DON'T WANT
TO LOSE IT...
Think twice before bringing it into a raft.
Whitewater is wet, boats move around, and even normally secure items can disappear surprisingly quickly.
The safest place for something valuable or difficult to replace is usually your vehicle.
KEEP THEIR GEAR
SIMPLE TOO
Kids don't need a separate rafting wardrobe. Dress them in quick-dry layers for the weather, bring dry clothes for afterward, and we'll fit all the river gear they need.
SALIDA VALLEY
Our mellowest rafting trip with Class I-II water, mountain scenery, and a relaxed pace. A great first rafting trip for younger kids.
BEAR CREEK
Class II-III rafting with more splash, a few small rapids, and a noticeable step up from the mellow Salida Valley trip.
BROWNS CANYON
Our classic Class III whitewater trip through Browns Canyon National Monument. Splashier, more exciting, and our most popular trip.
THE NUMBERS
Continuous Class IV whitewater for older, adventurous guests ready for a much more demanding rafting experience.
RAFTING
GEAR FAQ
Do I have to pay extra for a wetsuit?
No. Wetsuits are available as part of your rafting trip when conditions call for them. We do not charge an additional equipment rental fee for the standard river gear we provide.
Do I need to buy water shoes?
No. River booties are available from Monumental. If you already have secure footwear that works well around water, you can ask your guide whether it is appropriate for your trip.
Should I wear a wetsuit?
It depends on water temperature, air temperature, weather, and your own comfort level. Your guide will help you decide before the trip.
Can I wear glasses or sunglasses?
Yes. Make sure they are securely retained. Sunglass retainers are available from Monumental, and prescription glasses should also use a secure retainer.
What if the weather forecast changes?
Bring reasonable layers and don't worry about getting the forecast exactly right. Colorado weather changes quickly, and we have additional river gear available to adapt to the conditions.
What should I leave in my vehicle?
Leave your towel, dry change of clothes, unnecessary valuables, and anything else you don't want wet or lost secured in your vehicle.
YOU BRING THE CREW.
WE'LL HANDLE THE GEAR.
Show up with sensible clothing for the weather and a dry change for afterward. We'll help with the rest before you hit the Arkansas River.
