Browns Canyon Full Day Whitewater Rafting

If you're looking for a classic Colorado rafting trip, Browns Canyon is the one locals always recommend. It's fun, scenic, and just the right amount of wild. You'll spend about five and a half hours total, with roughly five hours on the water.

The day begins in Buena Vista, where you'll meet your guide, receive gear fitting, and participate in a comprehensive safety briefing. Our experienced guides will ensure your safety throughout the trip. Once everyone's ready, you'll head down to the Arkansas River and push off into Browns Canyon National Monument — a beautiful stretch of water surrounded by tall granite cliffs and the snow-capped Collegiate Peaks in the distance.

The rapids here are Class III, which means they're lively and exciting but still manageable for beginners. You'll paddle together through famous spots like Zoom Flume and Pinball, getting splashed and laughing your way through each wave. Between the rapids, there are calm sections where you can float, catch your breath, and take in the views. It's common to spot eagles or mule deer along the banks, and sometimes you'll even hear the wind echo through the canyon walls.

All your equipment is included — paddles, helmets, life jackets, and wetsuits or splash tops, depending on the day's temperature. Transportation to and from the river is part of the trip, so once you arrive at the outpost, everything's handled. This trip is designed to be enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their level of experience.

By the end, most people are a little tired, a little wet, and smiling big. It's the kind of day that feels both adventurous and easy — a great way to see a piece of Colorado that most folks only view from the highway.