Arkansas River
The Arkansas is open for rafting from May though September. The 100-mile stretch of water is used by more than 400,000 rafters, kayakers, fishermen, campers and wildlife viewers each year. The Arkansas River has an average gradient of 38 feet per mile.
The Arkansas River is divided in three different sections. The upper section, the Bighorn, flows by the Cotopaxi cliffs. As you cruise down the river, you will experience geological formations and views of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. It is also common to see bighorn sheep as you raft down the river. These rapids are classified as III-IV rapids.
Continuing down the river is the Royal Gorge section of the river. This section of the river features giant waves, steep technical drops and almost continuous whitewater through the narrow canyon of the Royal Gorge. As you adventure though some of the most challenging whitewater you'll find, you may not even notice the Royal Gorge Bridge 1053' above the river. To traverse this section, you must be in good physical shape to navigate the class IV-V rapids.
Brown's canyon is the last section of the Arkansas River, which runs near the Buena Vista Area. This section of the river is tamer than the other sections and is more suitable for all ages with class III-III+ rapids.
The International Rapid Rating Scale:
- Class I: Easy. Fast moving water with riffles, small waves.
- Class II: Novice. Straightforward rapids, wide, clear channels.
- Class III: Intermediate. Rapids, moderate, irregular waves.
- Class IV: Advanced. Intense, powerful rapids, precise boat handling.
- Class V: Expert. Long, obstructed, violent rapids.
Places to Stay and Fun Things to Do
Located on Clear Creek minutes from Denver & Summit County. Scenic ATV & Horse mountain tours are just 45 minutes from Denver. We offer fun professionally guided tours on Clear Creek & Arkansas rivers.
World-class rafting trips, from mild floats to advanced whitewater. Discounts offered daily, free wetsuits & jackets. Trips on 8 rivers in multiple Colorado locations, including rafting only 30 minutes from Denver.
Whitewater Rafting on 4 different rivers, serving vacationers from Breckenridge to Buena Vista. Also offered are fishing float trips, rock climbing, biking, hiking, hot air ballooning & kayak instruction.
COMMITTED TO SAFETY AND EXCELLENCE ! 1/2 Day & Full Day trips in Bighorn Sheep Canyon and the Royal Gorge. Great Guides - Great Prices = Great Value! It's that simple!
Walk to river fishing! Along the Arkansas River, spectacular mountain views, 4-1/2 miles north of Buena Vista, the "Banana Belt of the Rockies". RV & tent sites. On-site trailer, 5th wheel & cabin rentals.
Since 1973, ART has offered exceptional whitewater rafting trips on the Arkansas River. 1/4 to 3-day trips for all ages and abilities. Located right on the river in Cotopaxi, between Canon City and Salida.
Trips on 8 rivers across Colorado! Our dedicated, skilled, and enthusiastic guides will show you the best river rafting adventure. Discounts offered daily. Free wetsuits and jackets.
A DAY OF YOUR SUMMER. . . FOR THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE! Colorado River rafting is a fun and exciting family sport. 2 offices: Buena Vista and Royal Gorge area with 1/2 day and multi day trips.
TWO GREAT RIVERS - TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS! Whitewater trips on the Arkansas River (Royal Gorge) and on Clear Creek (Idaho Springs), 1/3 day to multi-day trips there's something for everyone.
31 years of experience in providing RAFTING ADVENTURES and making VACATION MEMORIES that last a lifetime! FAMILY and ADVENTURE class rafting just 1 hour from Colorado Springs.
Conveniently located in Breckenridge, Buena Vista & Royal Gorge. Raft the Blue River, Colorado River & Arkansas River.
ALWAYS FREE wetsuits. Raft three rivers: The incredible Arkansas, 45 miles from Colorado Springs in Canon City; Clear Creek, only 30 miles from Denver; and the Colorado, 2 hours northwest of Denver.
The "Whitewater Professionals" since 1972! Half, Full and Multi-day trips for all ages and abilities. Private beach and hot showers await your group. Buena Vista and Royal Gorge.
An adventure company opening the door for new adventures in Cotopaxi in the Royal Gorge region: experience whitewater rafting, inflatable kayaks, rock climbing, fly fishing, horseback riding, trail rides.
Experience Counts! Ours & yours! Always providing free wetsuits, private photographers, entertaining slideshows of your trip and more! All Royal Gorge Rafting guides have a minimum of 4 years experience.
More Activities & Information
Buena Vista AreaSalida
Royal Gorge Area
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