Raft the Beautiful Upper Colorado

Discover the Upper Colorado Rafting Adventure for All Ages and Tastes

For those seeking a scenic outdoor activity that combines gentle whitewater, wildlife viewing, and natural thermal springs, the Raft the Beautiful Upper Colorado tour offers an engaging experience. Priced at $90 per person, this approximately 3.5-hour adventure in Breckenridge, Colorado, is highly recommended, boasting a 5.0-star rating from 17 reviews and a 94% recommendation rate. The tour is suitable for first-timers and families, thanks to its light Class 2 whitewater, which provides fun splashes without being overwhelming.

The tour departs from 400e Park Ave in Kremmling, with the convenience of a mobile ticket. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to enjoy unparalleled scenery, encounter wildlife like otters, eagles, and Big Horn Sheep, and add some thrill with optional cliff jumps. The 20+ days booking in advance suggests this is a popular, well-organized experience worth planning ahead for.

Key Points

• Affordable and accessible: At $90 per person, with wetsuits and life jackets included, it offers great value.
• Ideal for beginners and families: The gentle Class 2 whitewater ensures safe fun for all ages.
• Wildlife and scenic highlights: Otters, eagles, Big Horn Sheep, bears, and moose are commonly spotted along the river.
• Hot springs stop: The tour includes a stop at Radium Hot Springs for relaxation in natural thermal waters.
• Optional cliff jumps: For adrenaline enthusiasts, 25ft and 7ft cliff jumps provide additional excitement.
• Booking and group size: The tour typically has up to 48 travelers and is booked on average 21 days in advance.

Starting Point and Duration of the River Trip

The adventure begins at 400e Park Ave in Kremmling, Colorado, where guests meet for safety instructions and gear distribution. The rafting itself lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours, giving ample time to enjoy the meandering Class 2 rapids and the scenic valleys and canyons along the river. The total tour time, including stops and preparation, is approximately 3 hours 30 minutes.

Wildlife Encounters and Natural Scenery on the River

The Upper Colorado River flows through stunning remote areas, with wildlife sightings being a highlight of this tour. Expect to see otters swimming along the raft, eagles soaring overhead, and Big Horn Sheep scaling cliffs that line the riverbanks. Occasionally, bears and moose are observed hanging out by the water, adding to the sense of adventure and connection with nature.

The scenery is truly remarkable, with towering cliffs, lush valleys, and open skies. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to take photos of the landscape and wildlife during the float, making this experience both relaxing and visually captivating.

What Makes the Class 2 Whitewater Suitable for Beginners

The whitewater segment features Class 2 rapids, characterized by light splashes and manageable waves. This makes it an excellent activity for first-time rafters and families with children around 8 years old or older. The safety equipment, such as life jackets and wetsuits, is provided, ensuring comfort and security throughout the trip.

Even with this gentle level of rapids, there are moments of excitement, especially at the cliff jump spots. The 25-foot cliff jump provides a thrilling challenge for those seeking a quick adrenaline boost, while the 7-foot jump offers a safer, lower-altitude alternative.

Radium Hot Springs: The Relaxing End to Your Rafting Day

One of the most appreciated features of this tour is the stop at Radium Hot Springs. After the float, groups often pause along the riverbank to enjoy the natural thermal waters, offering a soothing retreat amid the scenic wilderness. This stop enhances the overall experience, combining adventure with relaxation.

Guests frequently mention how calming and refreshing the hot springs are, especially after a splash-filled float, making the tour well-balanced for active and passive enjoyment.

Practical Gear and Safety Measures

The tour provider, Liquid Descent Whitewater Rafting, supplies life jackets to ensure safety during the raft trip. Wetsuits and splash jackets are available upon request, ideal for cooler days or personal comfort.

Participants are advised that closed-toed shoes are required, with the option to purchase or bring suitable footwear. The tour emphasizes safety and comfort, accommodating most travelers with physical mobility, provided they can handle the moderate activity level.

Group Size and Booking Details

This tour accommodates up to 48 travelers, fostering a lively but manageable group experience. Most bookings are made about 3 weeks in advance, indicating its popularity and the importance of planning ahead.

The meeting point in Kremmling is easy to find, and the tour concludes at the same location, making logistics straightforward. The tour’s mobile ticket system allows for flexible access once booked.

Weather, Cancellation, and Refund Policies

The activity’s success depends on good weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, participants are offered an alternative date or a full refund. Cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance are fully refundable, providing peace of mind.

Changes and cancellations less than 24 hours before the scheduled start are not possible, emphasizing the need for weather and schedule flexibility.

Who Will Enjoy This Rafting Experience

This scenic float is perfect for families, first-timers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a relaxed yet adventurous day in the Colorado wilderness. The light rapids and wildlife viewing opportunities make it suitable for those who prefer gentle outdoor activities, but with enough thrill to keep the experience engaging.

Those wanting a combination of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty will find this tour a rewarding choice, especially with the added bonus of a hot spring stop and optional cliff jumps.

Final Thoughts on the Upper Colorado Rafting Tour

The Raft the Beautiful Upper Colorado tour offers a well-rounded adventure with moderate whitewater, spectacular scenery, and wildlife sightings. Its affordable price and inclusive gear make it accessible and straightforward for most travelers. The hot springs stop and optional cliff jumps provide extra touches of enjoyment and excitement.

While it’s suitable for beginners and families, those seeking more intense whitewater or longer rafting trips should consider other options. This tour stands out for its balance of adventure and tranquility, making it a memorable outdoor experience near Breckenridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for children around 8 years old, especially given the gentle Class 2 rapids and safety equipment provided.

What should I wear on the rafting trip?
Participants should wear comfortable, close-toed shoes. Wetsuits and splash jackets are available if needed.

How long is the rafting portion?
The raft float lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, with total tour duration approximately 3 hours 30 minutes including stops.

Can I participate if I’ve never rafted before?
Absolutely. The gentle rapids and safety measures make it ideal for first-timers.

What wildlife might I see?
Otters, eagles, Big Horn Sheep, bears, and moose are commonly spotted along the river.

Is there an option for additional thrills?
Yes, you can stop at the 25-foot cliff jump for a quick adrenaline rush.

What is included in the price?
Life jackets, wetsuits, splash jackets, and the guided raft trip are included in the $90 fee.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 21 days in advance, so early planning is recommended.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. The tour depends on good weather conditions for participation.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Liquid Descent Whitewater Rafting.