Rafting - Blazing Adventures

Easier

Lower Roaring Fork

This section of the Roaring Fork river features beautiful views of the 12,000-ft. Mt. Sopris, interesting geology and scenery, and some great whitewater rafting. Beginning in Carbondale, this trip is fairly close to Aspen with a short drive through the valley to the "put in". You will travel down the river for 12 miles while rafting thought the "Cemetery Rapids". At the end of the trip you will drop into the Colorado River just below Glenwood Springs, offering the experience of raft two rivers in one trip. This is a great trip for beginner Colorado river rafting enthusiasts.

Intermediate

Upper Roaring Fork River

Close to the town of Aspen this trip begins only 5 miles outside it at Woody Creek and ends by Basalt. While on the Roaring Fork River you will meander through the valley for 13 miles while taking in breath taking views of the wildlife and the landscape. However, "Upper and Lower Toothache Rapids" will keep the adrenaline flowing on this ride. This is a good trip for beginners and whitewater enthusiasts.

VIDEO: Whitewater Rafting: Upper Roaring Fork

A.M. or P.M. Shoshone Rapids - Colorado River

Nestled in the deep gorge of beautiful Glenwood Canyon, the "Shoshone Rapids" section of the Colorado River comes to life in early July. These rapids, with names like "Superstition", "The Wall" and "Pinball", create an exhilarating and unforgettable Colorado river rafting experience. The trip begins with the rapids and then calms down for you to enjoy the surrounding scenery of the canyon.

VIDEO: Whitewater Rafting: Shoshone Rapids

Triple Shoshone P.M. Only - Colorado River - Not available on Saturdays

Nestled in the deep gorge of beautiful Glenwood Canyon, the "Shoshone Rapids" section of the Colorado River comes to life in early July. These rapids, with names like "Superstition", "The Wall" and "Pinball", create an exhilarating section of unforgettable white water. We will run the first set of Class III rapids three times over giving you plenty of exciting whitewater, concentrating on team building skills and just having fun. At the end of the trip everyone will enjoy a snack or we can include a Bar-B-Q dinner at our private take-out facility in West Glenwood Springs. Pick up will be at 12:30 pm and the Colorado river rafting trip will end around 5:30. We can figure the return time to your hotel after we decide the plan for lunch.

VIDEO: Whitewater Rafting: Shoshone Rapids

Full Day Brown's Canyon - Arkansas River

This river trip begins near the town of Buena Vista and features some exceptionally beautiful scenery and some of the best whitewater rafting to be found anywhere in the state. To get to the "put in" you drive over the beautiful Independence Pass, which offers amazing views of Aspen's surroundings landscape. Depending on the water conditions you raft for 12 -15 miles on the Arkansas River. The trip takes approximately 8 to 9 hours including transportation and is good for beginners as well as experienced whitewater rafting enthusiasts.

Advanced

Numbers Section AM Only -Arkansas River

Numbers Section, named after the Rapids you encounter, is the newest addition to the rafting trips. This is extreme rafting featuring a 6-foot waterfall drop at the end and rapids 1-5. In smaller boats with 6 paddlers you acquire a better feel for the river while rafting down the Arkansas River. You will also take a scenic drive over the 12,000 foot Independence Pass. Previous river experience is not required, but you should be in good physical shape and like adventures. Helmets and wet suits will be provided.

VIDEO: Whitewater Rafting: Numbers Section

Inflatable Kayaking / Duckies

A.M. or P.M. Middle Roaring Fork River - In Inflatable Kayaks (Duckies)

Try this middle section on the Roaring Fork in inflatable kayaks, also known as Duckies, which are very stable and easy to master. Perfect as an introduction to kayaking and makes smaller whitewater more exciting. Small 12-foot rafts are also available for this section. The Roaring Fork River meanders through the valley from Independence Pass until it empties into the Colorado River. The Middle section, which begins just 15 miles from Aspen, winds 6 miles through the valley featuring beautiful scenery, wildlife and exceptional whitewater. Paddle through rapids with names like "Members Hole," "Big Nasty," "Fish Falls," and "Big Drop." Good for beginner and expert paddlers. Time required is 3½ - 4 hours including transfer - on river for 1½ hours.

VIDEO: Inflatable Kayaks / Duckies: Middle Roaring Fork

Rapid Classification Table

What to Wear

We provide paddle jackets and pants, wetsuits and booties for your feet (if necessary). Wear clothes and shoes that you do not mind getting wet (shoes must stay on your feet - no flip flops). On warm, sunny days we recommend a bathing suit, shorts, t-shirt, and a light waterproof shell. On cool overcast days, wear a fleece, wool sweater or polypropylene to keep dry. It is best not to wear cotton or denim, as when they get wet, they stay wet and cold. Hooded waterproof shells and pants are helpful if you have them.

Reservations

Book your rafting trip today by calling one of our vacation specialist or through the online booking engine.

Videos

• Inflatable Kayaks on the Middle Fork: Roaring Fork River
• Numbers Sections: Arkansas River
• Pine Creek Section: Arkansas River
• Shoshone Rapids: Colorado River
• Slaughterhouse Falls: Roaring Fork River
• Rafting on the Upper Fork: Roaring Fork River