Colorado Rafting Trips – How to Pick the Best Trip for Your Adventure

When thinking about fun activities to do in Colorado, skiing probably is the first thing that comes to mind, and rightfully so; Colorado has some of the best ski mountains in the world.  But, what happens when all of that wonderful snow melts in the springtime?  With a wide variety of options for adventurers of all ages and ability levels, whitewater rafting in Colorado is THE summer activity not to be missed.  Colorado’s Arkansas River is America’s most popular river with exciting whitewater and some of the most amazing scenery anywhere to back it up.  No matter how much time you have (trips range from a few hours to a few days) or how adventurous your crew, you can’t pack more fun and excitement into a day in Colorado than spending some time on the river with American Adventure Expeditions.

The best way to experience a Colorado rafting trip is to sign up for a full day adventure.  With two extraordinary riverside facilities on the Arkansas River servicing four unforgettable stretches of whitewater, American Adventure Expeditions is able to provide our guests with unparalleled adventures.  A full day rafting trip usually lasts 5-6 hours and covers 17-22 miles on the Arkansas River, depending on the section of river and time of year.  Minimum requirements for the beginner/intermediate sections are 6 years old, and either 14 or 16 years old for the more advanced sections of river.  All full day adventures include a riverside lunch as well, and departures for full day trip are typically in the morning.

Looking for an unforgettable adventure on the river, but don’t have the time for a full day excursion?  Try one of our many ½ day rafting adventures, with a wide variety of departure times throughout the day to cater to your busy schedule.  Half-day rafting trips have a 2-3 hour duration and encompass 9-12 miles on the river.   Our 2 most popular ½ day adventures are Browns Canyon (great for families or first-timers) and the Royal Gorge (perfect for adventure seekers).  With options ranging from beginner/intermediate to advanced, a ½ day trip on the Arkansas River is the perfect way to get the most “bang for your buck” on a limited agenda.

If you want to spend the most time on the river as possible and don’t mind camping under the stars, the Royal Gorge Overnight trip is a must.  Exclusive to American Adventure Expeditions because of our amazing 8-acre riverside outpost, the Royal Gorge Overnight has quickly become a huge hit amongst AAE guests.  This is an all-inclusive experience covering 2 days of some of Colorado’s best whitewater.  Highlights include 27 miles of rafting (Class II-V rapids), four meals, and a night of camping (with all gear provided) on the river.  The minimum age for this overnight trip is 14 years old as the second day of rafting goes through the Royal Gorge.

Whitewater rafting, while certainly the best, is not the only adventure to tackle while in Colorado.  Fly fishing, mountain biking, and hiking are just a few of the many exciting activities to also enjoy.  Another activity that AAE is able to offer combo trips on is ziplining.  Combined with any morning ½ day rafting trip and lunch, AAE’s “Float & Fly” packages offer guests a chance to experience a multi-sport adventure all in one day.  Another option for those looking for not quite as much excitement but still looking to enjoy some of Colorado’s beauty is the “Family Float” rafting trip.  The Family Float entails 4-miles on the Arkansas River through Class I/II whitewater and provides riders with unmatched views of the Continental Divide.

With so much to do in Colorado during the summertime, planning an agenda in advance is highly recommended.  Whether you just have enough time to squeeze in a ½ day trip, can take advantage of a full day excursion, or are looking to spend the night on the river, rafting is certainly one fun activity suitable for all ages that should not be missed.  With convenient outposts directly on the Arkansas River, American Adventure Expeditions is able to offer world-class whitewater rafting like no one else.  Take advantage of AAE’s flexible schedules, combo trips, and unmatched customer service and you’ll be sure to realize that a day on the river in Colorado can make a lifetime of memories.