Arkansas River Rafting
Iconic Whitewater, Unforgettable Views
Browns Canyon Whitewater Adventure – Arkansas River, Buena Vista
Ready to dip your paddle into one of Colorado’s most iconic whitewater runs? Our Browns Canyon Rafting Adventure delivers non-stop fun, splashy Class III rapids, and epic canyon scenery on a thrilling half-day trip down the Arkansas River.
This adventure is perfect for first-time rafters, thrill-seeking families, or anyone short on time but big on excitement. You’ll wind through the stunning Browns Canyon National Monument, a granite-filled canyon packed with playful rapids, calm pools, and jaw-dropping Rocky Mountain views.
From the first paddle stroke, the action builds with legendary rapids like Zoom Flume, Pinball, and Big Drop. In between the splashes, you’ll float through serene stretches, share laughs with your crew, and take in the wild beauty of one of Colorado’s most beloved rivers.
Led by experienced, professional guides, this trip is safe, high-energy, and ridiculously fun. Whether you’re paddling hard or soaking up the scenery, you’ll finish with big smiles and even bigger memories.
Choose Your Experience
Browns Canyon Half Day
Location
Buena Vista
River
Arkansas River
Adventure Time
3 hours
Total Time
3.5 hours
Tags
Great for Groups
Per Guest
Adult (13+): $99
Child (≤12): $80
No Hidden Fees!
Must be at least
7 years old
Available
Jun 18 - Aug 31
Adventure level
Tags
Great for Groups
The most rafted stretch in Colorado
Looking for a perfect blend of Colorado scenery and whitewater adventure? The Browns Canyon Half-Day Trip delivers both in one unforgettable ride. This is one of the most iconic stretches of river in the country—and for good reason. Carved deep into the granite heart of the Arkansas River Valley, Browns Canyon offers a breathtaking mix of splashy Class III rapids, serene pools, towering cliffs, and mountain views around every bend.
Looking for a perfect blend of Colorado scenery and whitewater adventure? The Browns Canyon Half-Day Trip delivers both in one unforgettable ride. This is one of the most iconic stretches of river in the country—and for good reason. Carved deep into the granite heart of the Arkansas River Valley, Browns Canyon offers a breathtaking mix of splashy Class III rapids, serene pools, towering cliffs, and mountain views around every bend.
This half-day adventure is ideal for first-time rafters, families with older kids, or returning paddlers who want a fun, exciting trip without committing the whole day. It’s action-packed, scenic, and incredibly rewarding.
This isn’t just a whitewater trip—it’s a journey through one of the most scenic and ecologically rich places in Colorado. Carved over centuries by the Arkansas River, Browns Canyon National Monument features towering granite cliffs, ancient pine forests, and dramatic rock formations that rise above the river like a natural cathedral. This section of the Arkansas River gives you front-row access to one of the last undeveloped canyons in the state—and you’ll understand immediately why it was protected.
Browns Canyon Full Day
Location
Buena Vista
River
Arkansas River
Adventure Time
5 hours
Total Time
5.5 hours
Tags
Family Experiences
Great for Groups
Per Guest
Adult (13+): $145
Child (≤12): $130
No Hidden Fees!
Must be at least
7 years old
Available
Jun 18 - Aug 31
Adventure level
Tags
Family Experiences
Great for Groups
The most rafted stretch in Colorado
Located on the Arkansas River in Browns Canyon National Monument, the Class III Browns Canyon whitewater rafting section is by far the most popular whitewater rafting trip in Colorado. It has incredible scenery, excitement and FUN for the whole family. Skirted by the spectacular Collegiate peaks, the Arkansas River has carved its way through some of the most dramatic country in Colorado.
Located on the Arkansas River in Browns Canyon National Monument, the Class III Browns Canyon whitewater rafting section is by far the most popular whitewater rafting trip in Colorado. It has incredible scenery, excitement and FUN for the whole family. Skirted by the spectacular Collegiate peaks, the Arkansas River has carved its way through some of the most dramatic country in Colorado.
Numbers Half Day
Location
Buena Vista
River
Arkansas River
Adventure Time
3 hours
Total Time
3.5 hours
Tags
Thrill Seekers
Per Guest
All Ages: $115
No Hidden Fees!
Must be at least
16 years old
Available
Jun 18 - Aug 31
Adventure level
Tags
Thrill Seekers
Numbers Half-Day Adventure – Arkansas River
Conquer fast-moving, Class IV rapids on this half-day challenge through The Numbers. Ideal for experienced rafters seeking adrenaline. The Numbers section of the Arkansas River is fast, furious, and full-on fun for experienced rafters. Expect tight technical lines, continuous whitewater, and adrenaline-pumping Class IV rapids that never seem to quit. If you’re ready to paddle hard and charge into adventure, this one’s for you. It’s the purest form of river rush—raw, wild, and unforgettable. Bring your grit, grab your crew, and tackle the Arkansas head-on!
Conquer fast-moving, Class IV rapids on this half-day challenge through The Numbers. Ideal for experienced rafters seeking adrenaline. The Numbers section of the Arkansas River is fast, furious, and full-on fun for experienced rafters. Expect tight technical lines, continuous whitewater, and adrenaline-pumping Class IV rapids that never seem to quit. If you’re ready to paddle hard and charge into adventure, this one’s for you. It’s the purest form of river rush—raw, wild, and unforgettable. Bring your grit, grab your crew, and tackle the Arkansas head-on!
Trip Details
- Certified, professional river guide
- Raft and all whitewater safety equipment (life jackets, helmets, paddles)
- Transportation to and from the river put-in/take-out
- Wetsuits and splash tops (as needed depending on weather)
- Dry bag for personal essentials
- Whitewater and Scenic Rafting:
- Check-In: Arrive at the designated time specified in your confirmation email.
- All guests must sign a waiver before participating (minors must have a parent/guardian signature)
- Minimum age: 7–8 years old depending on water flows
- Moderate fitness level recommended; paddling required
- Arrive 30 minutes early for check-in, safety talk, and gear fitting
- Wear quick-drying clothes, secure footwear (no flip-flops), and sun protection
- Age and Weight Requirements: Minimum recommended ages vary depending on river flow and conditions. At all times Participants must weigh at least 30 lbs.
Browns Canyon is one of the most iconic whitewater trips in Colorado. Located in a federally protected National Monument, this stretch of the Arkansas River serves up splashy Class III rapids, awe-inspiring granite cliffs, and big Rocky Mountain views.
This trip is ideal for adventurous first-timers and return rafters alike—it’s action-packed yet approachable. Rapids like “Zoom Flume” and “Pinball” keep things exciting, while calm stretches offer time to soak in the scenery. It’s the perfect balance of adrenaline and beauty, all within a half-day window that leaves time for other mountain adventures.
Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes! No prior rafting experience is required. Our guides provide a full safety briefing and instruction before launching.
How intense are the rapids?
You’ll experience mostly Class III rapids—exciting but manageable for most people in good health. Expect some paddling, waves, and big fun.
What should I bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses with a strap, and a change of clothes for after. We’ll provide the rest!
Will we get wet?
Definitely. That’s part of the fun! Plan to get splashed, and dress accordingly.
What if water levels are high?
We closely monitor river conditions. In higher water, we may raise the minimum age or adjust trip plans to ensure safety.