The 6 Best Colorado Rafting Day Trips for Whitewater Adventure

You don’t need a multi-day expedition to experience Colorado’s legendary whitewater. From fast, technical rapids to laid-back scenic floats, some of Colorado’s’s best rafting happens in a single day. Many great rivers are just a short drive from cities like Denver, Colorado Springs, and Buena Vista.

With a range of Colorado rafting day trip options for all experience levels, 1-day trips are a great way to explore Colorado’s rivers, get outside, and experience the mountains from a new perspective, without any overnight packing required. We recommend choosing an outfitter like Arkansas River Tours, which has more than five decades of experience guiding guests on Colorado rivers. 

Below, you’ll find some of the most popular one-day rafting sections in the state, each offering a distinct experience. These Colorado day trips are well worth incorporating into your summer plans. 

Where Can You Go Whitewater Rafting in Colorado for a Day?

We’ve handpicked six river sections that showcase the diversity of Colorado’s rafting day trips, from heart-pounding rapids to serene floats. Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself or take in some views with the family, there’s a river section that fits the bill and is close to Denver, Colorado Springs, and Salida. 

Arkansas River: Royal Gorge – Colorado’s Premium Whitewater Day Trip

Towering canyon walls. Thundering rapids. A legendary bridge rises overhead. This is the Royal Gorge, a true bucket-list run for whitewater enthusiasts. As the Arkansas River narrows through this deep granite chasm near Cañon City, water accelerates into a thrilling series of Class III–V rapids that keep even seasoned guides on their toes. Rapids such as Sunshine Falls, Sledgehammer, and The Narrows make this run best suited for adventurous rafters ready for a high-adrenaline ride.

Half-day trips typically include 2.5 hours on the water, while full-day options add a riverside lunch and extend to 4–5 hours. For the biggest flows, plan your trip between late May and early June; for warmer water and steadier conditions, aim for July. The put-in near Cañon City is just over an hour from Colorado Springs.

Arkansas River: Bighorn Sheep Canyon – Ideal for Families and First-Timers

Immediately upstream of Royal Gorge, Bighorn Sheep Canyon offers an approachable but still exciting rafting experience that’s perfect for families, first-time paddlers, and anyone who wants to mix whitewater with scenery. This stretch of the Arkansas River flows through wide, sun-drenched canyons where Class II–III rapids provide great whitewater without intimidation. Along the way, it’s not uncommon to spot bighorn sheep perched on ledges or eagles circling overhead. Rapids like Spikebuck and Shark’s Tooth keep things lively while stretches of calm water provide time to soak in the views. Full-day trips include lunch and allow rafters to relax into the rhythm of the river. It’s an introduction to whitewater that still delivers a sense of adventure.

The canyon is accessible from Cañon City and sits within driving distance of Salida, Westcliffe, Pueblo, and Colorado Springs.

Arkansas River: Browns Canyon – An Iconic Colorado Rafting Destination

Designated as a National Monument in 2015, Browns Canyon is widely regarded as one of the crown jewels of Colorado rafting. This section of the Arkansas River delivers a near-perfect blend of adventure and scenery. Rafters can expect lively Class III rapids set against a dramatic backdrop of sculpted granite cliffs and the towering Collegiate Peaks. It’s a run that has become a rite of passage for many first-time rafters and a beloved return trip for seasoned adventurers. 

Full-day trips typically last 5–6 hours and include a riverside lunch. The season runs from late May through early August, and the canyon is easily accessible from Buena Vista and Salida.

Arkansas River: Cottonwood Canyon – A Mellow Float with Big Views

Tucked away near Salida, Cottonwood Canyon is one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets when it comes to gentle river adventures. This scenic stretch of the Arkansas River features calm Class I–II waters that are ideal for families with young children, older adults, or anyone new to rafting. Towering cottonwoods line the riverbanks, offering shady corridors and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s the kind of float where you can let the current carry you while listening to birdsong and the occasional splash of a trout jumping nearby. The peaceful nature of this float makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike who want to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Colorado without the intensity of whitewater. 

Trips typically run 1.5 to 4 hours, making it a flexible option for quicker adventures.

Clear Creek – Close to Denver, Big on Excitement

Only 30–45 minutes from Denver, Clear Creek packs a punch for its proximity to a big city. Flowing straight through the historic mining town of Idaho Springs, this steep and technical river offers one of the quickest, adrenaline filled runs that you can find near Denver. It’s three main sections cater to a wide range of experience levels, but even the easiest stretches have a way of waking up your senses.

For beginners or those with limited time, the Lower section features fun Class II–III rapids like Mister Twister and Mountain Lion. It’s a great introduction to whitewater with just enough splash to get your heart pumping. Intermediate paddlers gravitate toward the Middle Clear Creek stretch, where rapids like Hemorrhoid Rock and Outer Limits challenge your timing and teamwork.

Trip durations range from 1.5 to 3 hours. The rafting season is relatively short here, peaking in late June and tapering off by mid-August. 

Upper Colorado River – Scenic, Calm, and Great for Families

Designated as a Wild and Scenic River, the Upper Colorado offers a peaceful float through wide valleys and open skies. With Class I–II rapids, this is a go-to choice for families with young children, photographers, and anyone looking for wildlife viewing or a laid-back swim during a trip.

Trips typically run 2 hours for a half-day and 4 to 5 hours for a full-day float. The season stretches from early May through September. Though it’s a bit farther from major cities (about two hours from Denver), it’s easily accessed from Frisco, Vail, and Silverthorne.

What’s the Best 1-Day Rafting Trip in Colorado for My Group?

Not sure which Colorado day trip suits your group best? Let’s break it down.

Best for Families and Beginners

• Bighorn Sheep Canyon – Mild Class II–III; splash and scenery
• Upper Colorado River – Calm float, great wildlife viewing
• Cottonwood Canyon – Gentle Class I–II, perfect for kids
• Middle Clear Creek – Convenient access near Denver, Class II–III rapids
  

Best for Scenic Views

• Browns Canyon – Granite cliffs and sweeping views of the Collegiate Peaks
• Upper Colorado River – Wide-open valleys, hot springs, and big skies
• Cottonwood Canyon – Quiet water framed by mountain landscapes
  

Best for Thrill Seekers

• Royal Gorge – Continuous Class III–V rapids in a steep canyon
• Lower Clear Creek – Fast, technical water with Class IV+ drops
• Upper Clear Creek – Narrow, steep, and designed for experienced paddlers

When’s the Best Time to Go Rafting in Colorado?

Colorado’s rafting season runs from late April through mid-September, with conditions varying by location and snowpack. Here’s what to expect throughout the season:

• April – Early May: Early season with lower flows and cooler temps — great for avoiding crowds.
• Mid-May – Mid-June: Peak snowmelt season with fast, powerful rapids — best for experienced paddlers.
• Late June – Mid-August: Warm weather and stable flows — most popular time for families and new rafters.
• Late August – September: Low flows, warm temps, and fewer crowds — ideal for scenic floats.
  

Clear Creek typically peaks earlier (May–early August), while the Arkansas and Upper Colorado rivers benefit from sustained flows, giving them longer seasons.

Ready to Hit the River?

Colorado’s rivers offer an unmatched variety of great options for day rafting, from remote, scenic stretches to legendary whitewater runs. Whether you’re after a high-adrenaline rafting trip or a calm float with the kids, there’s a section that fits your preference. Go with a skilled guide and let the experts handle the logistics while you enjoy the ride.