Not all whitewater rafting trips are created equal when it comes to kids.
The Arkansas River offers everything from gentle splash-filled floats for young children to exciting Class III rapids that older kids will talk about for years. At Monumental Expeditions, we offer rafting trips for ages 5 and up, and because we’re a small family-run company, we can help match your family to the perfect section of river based on your children’s ages, comfort level, current river conditions, and even whether you’d like to bring the family dog along.
Many parents are surprised to discover that some of our most popular trips with kids aren’t necessarily the easiest ones. While younger children often love the gentle waves of Salida Valley, countless kids leave Browns Canyon declaring it the best part of their entire Colorado vacation.
Whether you’re introducing your children to rafting for the first time or looking for a bigger adventure, here’s our guide to the best rapids and family rafting experiences on the Arkansas River.
Choosing the Right Arkansas River Trip for Your Child
One of the biggest advantages of rafting with Monumental Expeditions is that we offer trips for a wide range of ages and adventure levels.
Salida Valley
Ages 5+ | Class I-II
For younger children and first-time rafters, Salida Valley is often the perfect introduction to whitewater.
This scenic stretch of river features playful waves, gentle rapids, mountain views, and plenty of opportunities to splash and enjoy the water. Kids love feeling like they’re part of the adventure while parents appreciate the relaxed pace.
Because the rapids are mild, children can spend more time enjoying the scenery, spotting wildlife, and learning how rivers work.
This is also our favorite section for families looking to bring their dog along.
Bear Creek
Ages 6+ | Class II-III
Bear Creek is one of the Arkansas River’s hidden gems and a favorite among our guides.
This trip offers more excitement than Salida Valley while remaining very family-friendly. Kids love the splashy rapids, beautiful canyon scenery, and opportunities to explore along the river.
Favorite rapids include:
- Silver Heels
- Bear Creek
- Spider
During lower water years, Bear Creek often becomes our go-to recommendation for families because it provides an excellent balance of scenery, excitement, and consistent rafting conditions.
Near the end of the trip, families can often enjoy time exploring along the shoreline, swimming, and making memories that go beyond just the whitewater.
Browns Canyon National Monument
Ages 7+ | Class III
If there’s one trip kids talk about for years afterward, it’s Browns Canyon.
Parents are often surprised by how much children love this section of river. The rapids are exciting enough to feel like a true adventure, but the calmer stretches between rapids give everyone a chance to relax, take in the scenery, and prepare for the next wave train.
Favorite rapids include:
- Canyon Doors
- Zoom Flume
- Big Drop
- The Staircase
Browns Canyon is famous for its dramatic granite walls, crystal-clear water, and incredible mountain scenery. It is also one of the best places in Colorado to introduce children to real whitewater rafting.
Many parents initially assume Browns Canyon might be too much for their child. More often than not, the kids are the ones asking when they can do it again.
For families with children ages 7 and older, Browns Canyon is usually our most recommended trip.
The Numbers
Ages 16+ | Class IV
For adventurous teenagers and experienced rafters, The Numbers offers some of the most exciting whitewater in Colorado.
This is a continuous Class IV section featuring powerful rapids, technical maneuvering, and an action-packed ride from start to finish.
While it isn’t designed for younger children, many families with older teens consider it the ultimate Arkansas River adventure.
We Can Customize Trips Based on River Conditions
Every rafting season is different.
Snowpack, runoff, and weather conditions all affect river levels throughout the summer. Because we’re a smaller outfitter, we can often recommend the best trip for your family based on current conditions rather than simply putting everyone on the same section of river.
In some seasons, Bear Creek may be the perfect choice. In others, Browns Canyon may offer the ideal combination of excitement and comfort.
We’ll help you choose the section that matches your family’s goals and experience level.
Dog-Friendly Family Adventures
We know many families travel with dogs, and we love having canine guests join the adventure.
Salida Valley is usually our best dog-friendly option because of its gentle rapids and relaxed pace. Depending on river conditions and your dog’s temperament, Browns Canyon can also be a great choice.
If you’re considering bringing your dog, give us a call and we’ll help determine which trip is the best fit.
Some of our most memorable guests have arrived with four legs and a wagging tail.
Adaptive Rafting and Accommodating Children With Disabilities
Every child deserves the opportunity to experience the river.
For children with certain disabilities or mobility challenges, we can often utilize an oar frame setup rather than a traditional paddle raft.
An oar frame is a specialized rafting system where the guide controls the boat using large oars mounted to a frame. Unlike a paddle raft, passengers are not responsible for helping steer or propel the boat.
This setup provides:
- Greater stability
- More support and comfort
- Less physical effort
- Improved guide control
- A more accessible rafting experience
Every child’s needs are unique, so we encourage families to contact us before booking. We’ll discuss your specific situation and determine the safest and most enjoyable way to get your child out on the river.
Over the years we’ve helped many families create river memories they never thought would be possible.
The Best Rapids Are the Ones Your Kids Remember
Parents often ask us which rapid is the best for kids on the Arkansas River.
The answer depends on the child.
Some kids love the gentle waves of Salida Valley. Others can’t stop talking about Silver Heels on Bear Creek. Many become lifelong fans of Zoom Flume and The Staircase in Browns Canyon.
What they all have in common is the excitement of being outside, unplugged from screens, surrounded by incredible scenery, and sharing an adventure with family.
Those memories last far longer than any rapid.
If you’re not sure which trip is right for your family, give Monumental Expeditions a call. We’ll help match your family with the perfect Arkansas River adventure based on your children’s ages, abilities, comfort level, and the current river conditions.