What is the best time of year to raft in Colorado?
Summer is great for whitewater rafting in Colorado. There are more than a dozen commercially operated rivers in the state. Generally, rafting season in Colorado starts in late April and runs into early October. However, the heart of summer—June, July, and August— is the best time for Colorado whitewater rafting. April to May and October through early December (before regular snowfall brings skiers and snowboarders), tend to be Colorado’s least busy months for travel. But these are also the best months to go to Colorado if you want to avoid crowds.This is a 3/4 of a day trip. Depending on the day’s water level, you’ll spend between 4-6 hours on the water, plus shuttle time to and from the river. Trip length and intensity vary based on water levels, which change throughout the season. Our standard, 16-foot rafts comfortably seat eight rafters and one river guide.The best time to raft for a relaxing experience is between July and September, however, there are plenty of trip options in May & June such as the Upper Colorado River.Our rafts can accommodate 6 to 8 rafters, plus a guide in the back. Usually, there will be 4-7 people in a raft depending on the size of the group.The longest Colorado River rafting trips available are full Grand Canyon rafting and dory expeditions, which float the entire 280-mile stretch of the Colorado River from Lees Ferry to Pearce Ferry and typically last 14 to 18 days. Partial canyon trips normally range between 6 to 12 days.
What time of day is best for white water rafting?
By choosing a morning rafting trip, you ensure your river experience is quieter and more peaceful. Your guide also won’t be battling for river space, and the rapids may be more enjoyable. Most people don’t get seasick while rafting. Time spent on the river is different from time spent on the open sea, and it does not typically induce seasickness.
What is the best part of the Colorado River to raft in?
Westwater Canyon. With its combination of colorful stone walls and serious whitewater, Westwater Canyon is often compared to the Grand Canyon, and it should be at the top of every rafter’s bucket list. The Grand Canyon (Colorado River): The 200-plus-mile rafting trip through the Grand Canyon is easily one of the most legendary whitewater adventures in the world, and for good reason.Oregon, Idaho, Montana and Washington are some of the best states in the USA for white-water rafting. The Pacific Northwest boasts some thrilling stretches of water, including the Middle Fork of Salmon River, Rogue River and Snake River.West Virginia is home to the highest density of whitewater runs in the country. National Geographic named the rapids of the Gauley River one the “Best of the World,” making this a world-class adventure.Upper Tuolumne River (Cherry Creek), California. Cherry Creek is the gold standard for Class V and is the hardest section of commercially rafted whitewater in the United States. Rapids like Mushroom (V), Toadstool (V), and Lewis’s Leap (V) challenge even the most experienced river guides.
How safe is white water rafting in Colorado?
First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize that white water rafting is generally safe when proper precautions are taken. According to the American Whitewater Association, the injury rate for commercial rafting trips is remarkably low—roughly one injury per every 5,000 participants. Some folks suggest it’s in the very front of the raft; some suggest it’s the drier seats way in the back. If you ask us, we’d assert that a perch in the front bay of the boat, set between the two bow (or lead) paddlers, is the safest spot in a whitewater raft.
What is the most intense white water rafting in the US?
Those that want more than the Tuolumne’s class IV experience can head upstream to Cherry Creek, the most difficult white water rafting in the United States. Paddle 9 miles of class V whitewater on Cherry Creek and then proceed down the rapids of Tuolumne River to camp over two or three days. Whitewater rafting is generally considered safe for non-swimmers, but the sport has inherent risks. One of the biggest dangers of whitewater rafting is being thrown off the raft during a whitewater rafting trip. This can cause serious injury, so always wearing a life jacket and staying on board is essential.Those who sit in the front of the raft will usually get wetter than anyone in the raft. The front of the raft usually hits the rapids first and the ensuing splash will get those in front as wet as rain. There’s no way around it.In the end, you’re going to get wet on any whitewater rafting adventure that you take. It’s a matter of taking measures to try and control just how wet you’ll get and how quickly you’ll be able to dry off. Always be sure to bring an extra set of dry clothes for after the adventure.Moderate Fitness: The good news is that you don’t need to be an elite athlete to enjoy white water rafting. A moderate level of physical fitness is sufficient for most rafting trips, especially those designed for families and beginners.
What is the best rafting for beginners?
Class I and Class II river rafting trips are the easiest adventures we offer and are suitable for younger kids, (ages 4+), non-swimmers, timid children and seniors. Rapids are wide and clear offering splashy fun! Hiking, biking, or even a day at the pool swimming can be great fun and excellent preparation for your rafting trip. Paddle Together: If possible, rent a canoe or a kayak and spend a day on the water. It’s a great way to practice paddling, get a feel for water dynamics, and enjoy time together as a family.Rafting can be strenuous and help build endurance. You need to sustain your paddling on the river as you maneuver obstacles and make your way downstream. It’s a fantastic cardio (aerobic) workout. If you do it regularly, rafting can help get your stamina and endurance to peak levels.This is a 3/4 of a day trip. Depending on the day’s water level, you’ll spend between 4-6 hours on the water, plus shuttle time to and from the river. Trip length and intensity vary based on water levels, which change throughout the season. Our standard, 16-foot rafts comfortably seat eight rafters and one river guide.Synthetic clothing, like what you wear to the gym, will make for a much more comfortable rafting experience. You may love your jeans, but they don’t make for the best pants for the river. Swim shorts, gym shorts, or a wet suit are all much better options.