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Upper Colorado Family Rafting

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3.5 Hour Duration
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Lasts 3.5 Hours From Start to Finish
Family-Friendly Rapids
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Class I–II Flow
Complimentary Hotel Pickup
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Vail & Beaver Creek
Scenic Canyon Views
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Wildlife & Red Rock Landscapes

Description

If you’ve got a few hours free around Vail or Beaver Creek, this float trip is a great way to get outside and see a different side of the mountains. The Upper Colorado River runs through a wide canyon lined with red cliffs, cottonwood trees, and open valleys. It’s calm enough for beginners but has just enough small rapids to keep things fun.

You’ll start the day with a short drive to the river and meet your guide, who’ll help you gear up and explain how the trip works. Once you’re on the water, the pace slows right down. Most of the time, you’ll float, chat, and take in the views. Every so often, a little wave or current picks up and adds a splash of excitement.

There’s plenty of time to swim, try out an inflatable kayak or stand-up paddleboard, or sit back in the raft and watch for wildlife. Bald eagles, osprey, and bighorn sheep are pretty common here. Your guide will point out a few incredible rock formations and share stories about the river and the surrounding area.

It’s the kind of trip that works for everyone — families, couples, or friends who want to relax outside for a few hours. No experience needed, all gear included, and the scenery alone makes it worth it.


What's Included

Round-Trip Transportation from Vail & Beaver Creek
Knowledgeable Guide
Raft and Paddles
Life Jacket and Helmet
Wetsuit and Splash Gear
Dry Bags for Personal Items
Snack or Lunch (Depending on Trip)
Guide Gratuity
Personal Water Bottle
Waterproof Phone Case

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a float or whitewater trip?

It’s primarily a scenic float with mild Class II rapids—ideal for first-timers and families.

Can we swim during the trip?

Yes! Your guide will make stops for swimming and splashing, depending on conditions.

Is experience required?

No prior rafting experience is needed. All training and equipment are provided.

What should I bring?

Quick-dry clothing, secure footwear, a refillable water bottle, and sunscreen.


Know Before You Book

Minimum Age: There is no minimum age to join this tour • Minimum Weight: 30 lbs
Minimum age 5; weight minimum 30 lbs.
No rafting experience required.
Free pickup from Vail and Beaver Creek hotels.
Tours cancelled at least 24 hours prior to the tour start time will receive a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours prior to start time are non-refundable. Book Now, Pay Later deposits are non-refundable under all circumstances.

Quick Facts

City
Vail

Duration
3h 30min

Guest Rate
$110


Itinerary • 3h 30min • 5 activities

Hotel pickup from Vail or Beaver Creek, arrival at the river base, check-in, gear fitting, and a short safety briefing with your certified guide.

Duration
30 minutes

Push off into calm waters. Your guide introduces the basics of paddling as the raft glides through the broad, mountainous valleys.

Duration
15 minutes

Navigate gentle Class I–II rapids, take turns on inflatable kayaks or SUPs, and enjoy swim stops in safe, slow-moving eddies.

Duration
1 hour

Relax as you drift beneath red rock cliffs, spotting local wildlife like eagles, osprey, or bighorn sheep.

Duration
30 minutes

Arrive at the takeout point, transfer gear, and enjoy a comfortable return shuttle to your Vail or Beaver Creek hotel.

Duration
30 minutes