Best Whitewater Rafting in Colorado:

Thanks to Colorado’s majestic mountains which send torrents of water into the state’s rivers every spring, Colorado is home to some of the best whitewater rafting in the US, and it doesn’t get any better than in Glenwood Springs. Spring run-off begins as the weather warms in the high country starting in late March and April and hits its peak in June—a month when flows are at their highest and fastest. As flow rates taper off into August and early September, the landscape of the river changes as well, providing new challenges to navigate and thrills to experience.

Glenwood Canyon is one of Colorado’s most remarkable and accessible scenic landmarks. The Colorado River slices through the 16-mile long channel, creating a landscape of towering cliffs and rare geological wonders like Hanging Lake. One of the best ways to experience this stretch of natural beauty is astride a raft on a summer’s day. You’ll feel the raw power of nature as you cascade through churning whitewater rapids and be awed by the views chiseled rock cliffs. If you’re lucky you may even spot some resident wildlife, including bald eagles and Colorado bighorn sheep.

Established, experienced and reputable outfitters serve the Glenwood Springs rafting community. You can find a list of guides here. Each one is committed to ensuring Glenwood’s visiting families have a great time on the river. While almost anyone can go rafting, there are a few exceptions worth noting before planning your Colorado rafting vacation. Children under 35 pounds are not permitted on commercial rafting trips because they are too small to fit the life jackets and are unable to self-rescue should they fall out. Kids who are under 50 pounds are not allowed to raft through the Shoshone Rapids in Glenwood Canyon, but can enjoy other rafting trips on calmer sections of the river. Of course, if you have a medical condition, you should check with your physician before booking a rafting trip. Other than that, bring your sense of adventure and get ready to make a splash!