THE NUMBERS
THIS IS WHERE THE RIVER GETS SERIOUS.
The Numbers is continuous Class IV whitewater through a steep mountain river corridor where the rapids come quickly and your crew needs to be ready to paddle.
There are fewer long recovery pools here. Strong current, technical moves, rocks, drops and powerful waves arrive one after another as the Arkansas River descends through the canyon.
This is our trip for athletic groups, experienced rafters and adventurous first-timers in good physical condition who genuinely want a more demanding whitewater experience.
NOT A SCENIC FLOAT WITH A FEW BIG RAPIDS
The Numbers is defined by continuous whitewater. Once the action starts, there is not much standing around waiting for the next rapid.
BACK-TO-BACK RAPIDS
The major rapids come in quick succession, creating a sustained whitewater experience instead of isolated moments of excitement.
REAL TEAMWORK
Your guide is directing the raft, but your crew needs to listen, react and paddle together. Participation is part of the experience.
HIGH-COUNTRY SETTING
Forested slopes, granite boulders and mountain views surround a river that feels very different from the lower Arkansas.
HALF DAY OR FULL DAY?
The half-day packs a tremendous amount of whitewater into a few hours. Choose the full-day when one run simply is not enough.
HALF DAY
A concentrated shot of advanced Arkansas River whitewater. Paddle through a steep series of technical Class IV rapids with very little downtime between the major features.
FULL DAY
More river, more whitewater and more time to experience the upper Arkansas. Break up the adventure with a freshly prepared riverside lunch before getting back on the water.
THE RAPIDS OF THE NUMBERS
The naming may not be creative, but the whitewater is. Six major numbered Class IV rapids make this one of the most concentrated advanced runs on the Arkansas River.
NUMBER ONE
The run announces itself quickly. Number One is one of the most technical rapids of the section, demanding precise boat placement through fast current and large rocks.
NUMBER TWO
There is not much time to celebrate Number One. The river keeps moving into another technical sequence where fast reactions and strong paddling matter.
NUMBER THREE
The gradient keeps working in your favor, or against you, depending on your perspective. More rocks, waves and fast decisions keep the momentum going.
NUMBER FOUR
One of the bigger highlights of the run. Number Four combines powerful current with technical moves and has a reputation for delivering memorable rides.
NUMBER FIVE
Another major Class IV rapid and one of the signature moments of The Numbers, with plenty happening quickly when the river is carrying good water.
NUMBER SIX
The numbered sequence finishes with one more serious rapid, keeping the intensity high through the lower part of the run.
THE NUMBERS REQUIRES MORE FROM YOU.
You do not have to be a professional rafter, but this is not the trip to choose simply because you meet the minimum age.
Prior rafting experience is helpful but not always required. What matters is that you are in good physical condition, comfortable around fast-moving water and ready to listen and paddle when your guide calls for it.
River levels also change the character of The Numbers dramatically. Minimum ages and trip suitability may change with conditions. If you are unsure whether your group is ready, call us.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
The Numbers requires the right equipment. Essential river gear is included with your trip.
SMALL GROUPS MATTER EVEN MORE ON BIGGER WATER.
On a Class IV trip, good communication between the guide and everyone in the raft is not just nice to have.
Monumental is intentionally small. That gives us more time to evaluate groups, talk through the river and make sure everyone understands what is expected before we launch.
It also means we can make decisions based on the actual river instead of treating every day and every crew exactly the same.
THE NUMBERS FAQ
This is our most demanding regularly offered rafting trip. Make sure you know what you are signing up for.
VIEW ALL RAFTING FAQSWhat is the minimum age for The Numbers?
The Numbers is generally available for ages 16 and older. Minimum ages and trip availability can change based on river conditions.
Do I need previous rafting experience?
Previous rafting experience is ideal, but it is not always required. Adventurous first-time rafters may be appropriate if they are in good physical condition, comfortable in moving water and ready for an active Class IV trip.
How difficult is Class IV?
Class IV whitewater involves powerful current, larger waves, technical maneuvering and faster decisions. Rapids on The Numbers occur close together, making it significantly more demanding than Browns Canyon.
Is The Numbers good for families?
It can be a great trip for families with strong, adventurous older teens and adults, but it is not our general family rafting recommendation. Salida Valley, Bear Creek and Browns Canyon are better fits for most family groups.
What should I wear?
Wear quick-drying clothing and avoid cotton. The upper Arkansas can be cold, especially earlier in the season. Wetsuits, splash jackets and river shoes are available when needed.
Where do we meet?
Trips meet at the Monumental Expeditions office inside Chalk Creek Campground in Nathrop, between Buena Vista and Salida. Please arrive about 30 minutes before your scheduled trip.
RAFT THE NUMBERS
Six major Class IV rapids. Continuous whitewater. One of the best advanced runs on the Arkansas River.
Half-day and full-day trips • Ages 16+ • Class IV • All river gear included
ROCKY MOUNTAIN SCENERY
Paddle through a rugged forested canyon surrounded by granite peaks and alpine scenery.
BIG SPLASHES & FAST WATER
Expect powerful waves, technical maneuvering, and nonstop paddling through steep whitewater.
CONTINUOUS CLASS IV RAPIDS
Navigate rapids Numbers One through Seven in one of Colorado’s most action-packed river sections.
HIGH-ENERGY ADVENTURE
This is not a relaxing float trip — it’s an active rafting experience built for adventure seekers.
