Numbers Extreme Whitewater Rafting

Experience Colorado’s Most Technical Whitewater on the Arkansas River

Numbers Extreme Whitewater Rafting offers an exhilarating 6-hour adventure in Buena Vista, Colorado, for $110 per person. This tour is perfect for experienced rafters or adventurous beginners in good physical condition, eager to tackle some of the most technical rapids in Colorado. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 35 reviews and 91% recommend it, this experience promises both thrills and scenic views.

Starting from the Riverside headquarters just 2 miles south of Buena Vista, the tour includes transportation, a professional guide, safety gear, and National Park fees. The full-day trip features 6 miles of rapids in the Numbers section, with a river-side lunch included if you choose the longer option. This experience is suited for those ready for a full-body workout and seeking an adrenaline rush amidst stunning mountain scenery.

Key Points

• Duration: Approximately 6 hours, with options for half or full-day trips.
• Price: $110 per person, including gear, transportation, and National Park fees.
• Physical Level: Requires good physical fitness and a minimum age of 14 years.
• Guide and Equipment: Led by professional river guides with helmet, PFD, and necessary gear provided.
• Booking: Usually booked 15 days in advance, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
• Highlights: Technical rapids in the Numbers section and scenic views of the Collegiate Peaks.

Starting Point and Logistics in Buena Vista

The tour departs from the 12600 US Hwy 24/285 address in Buena Vista, Colorado. Participants meet at the Wilderness Aware Rafting headquarters, located just a 30-45 minute drive from Denver, making it accessible for a day trip. The meeting begins with a safety orientation and gear recommendations based on weather and water conditions.

Transportation to the river is included, and the guides are ready to assist with wetsuit, splash jacket, and river shoe rentals if needed. Being prepared with your gear enhances comfort during the high-energy rapid sections. The tour’s small group size, capped at 10 travelers, ensures personalized attention and safety.

The Arkansas River: Colorado’s Premier Whitewater Destination

The Arkansas River is renowned as the most popular whitewater rafting river in Colorado. The Numbers section is famous for its technically challenging rapids, making it ideal for thrill-seekers. The river’s path offers spectacular views of the Collegiate Peaks, with cottonwood-lined banks adding to the scenic appeal.

The rapids are intense, requiring paddlers to work as a team under the guidance of experienced professionals. The full-body workout and adrenaline rush are highlights, with the added bonus of picturesque surroundings that make every rapid a visual treat.

What to Expect During the Rafting Experience

The half-day trip includes 6 miles of rapid paddling, giving participants a solid taste of Colorado’s whitewater excitement. For those opting for the full-day trip, after the initial rapid adventure, a riverside lunch is served, providing a break before continuing into more technical rapid sections.

The safety orientation covers essential skills and paddling techniques, ensuring even less experienced rafters can participate confidently. The professional guides lead each group through the back-to-back rapids, making sure safety and fun go hand-in-hand.

Gear and Equipment Provided

All necessary river gear such as helmets, personal flotation devices, and river paddles are included in the price. For additional comfort, rentals for wetsuits, splash jackets, and river shoes are available but not included in the base price.

Participants should be aware that high water conditions during late May and early June could lead to section closures, impacting the trip’s availability. Tour operators closely monitor water levels to ensure safety and optimal experience.

Meeting and Preparing at Wilderness Aware Rafting HQ

The meeting point at the Riverside headquarters provides an opportunity to gear up and ask questions before heading to the river. The staff is helpful and experienced, offering recommendations for weather-appropriate clothing and gear. The transportation to the river put-in takes approximately 15 minutes.

Getting ready involves a safety briefing that covers paddling techniques, signals, and what to do during rapid passages. The emphasis on safety ensures participants feel prepared and confident before entering the challenging Numbers section.

Physical and Age Requirements for the Rafting Trip

This tour is recommended for adventurous beginners and experienced rafters alike, but participants should have strong physical fitness. The minimum age is 14 years, although this can increase during high water periods late May through early June.

The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, and a minimum of 2 people per booking is required. The physical demands of paddling through back-to-back rapid sections mean participants should be comfortable with exertion.

Cancellation Policy and Booking Advice

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility if plans change. Full refunds are issued for cancellations made more than 24 hours before the scheduled trip.

As the experience is often booked about 15 days in advance, early booking is advisable to secure a spot. The small group size and popularity of the tour make it a sought-after adventure, especially during peak season.

Guides and Customer Service Quality

While most reviews highlight the expertise and friendliness of the guides, there is a note about communication issues with support outside of the local staff. A specific review mentions Justin as an outstanding guide, emphasizing the importance of local, knowledgeable assistance.

The tour provider, Wilderness Aware Rafting, is dedicated to ensuring safety and enjoyment, leveraging experienced guides to lead the rapid-filled journey. They also include National Park fees and lunch on full-day trips, adding value to the overall experience.

Comparing with Similar Rafting Adventures

This tour is particularly distinguished by its focus on technical rapids in the Numbers section. Similar options in the area include half-day Browns Canyon rafting and other family float trips, but Numbers Extreme Whitewater Rafting is best suited for those seeking challenging rapid sections.

Other local experiences include options to rent e-bikes or explore Granite Via Ferrata, but none match the adrenaline of this whitewater adventure in terms of technical difficulty and scenic beauty.

Final Thoughts on Numbers Extreme Whitewater Rafting

This Colorado tour delivers adventure, scenic beauty, and safety in one package. The combination of professional guides, state-of-the-art gear, and the thrilling rapids of the Arkansas River makes it a top choice for adventure seekers.

While it demands good physical fitness and has some seasonal limitations, the small group size and free cancellation policy add to its appeal. Perfect for those wanting to challenge themselves on Colorado’s most technical waters, this tour offers a memorable and exhilarating day on the river.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is suitable for adventurous beginners in good physical condition, especially those eager to experience Colorado’s most technical rapids.

What equipment is included?
The tour provides helmet, personal flotation device, and river paddle, with rentals available for wetsuits, splash jackets, and river shoes if needed.

How long is the total trip?
The full-day trip lasts around 6 hours, including transportation, safety orientation, rapid paddling, and optional riverside lunch.

What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be at least 14 years old, with age restrictions possibly increasing during high water periods.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Where does the tour start?
The tour starts at 12600 US Hwy 24/285 in Buena Vista, Colorado, at the Wilderness Aware Rafting headquarters.

Are there any restrictions during high water?
Yes, the section may close during periods of high water (late May to early June), affecting availability.

Is this tour recommended for pregnant women?
No, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women due to the physical nature of rapid paddling.

How many people are in each group?
Group sizes are limited to 10 travelers to ensure safety and personalized guidance.

What makes this tour stand out?
The technical rapids in the Numbers section and the scenic views of the Collegiate Peaks make this adventure both challenging and visually rewarding.