River Runners Guide School.

Common questions and first time river rafting tips

If this is your first time rafting, trust the whitewater professionals at River Runners. Our expert guides make it easy for you to have a fun, safe, and memorable rafting experience. Below are some common questions to get you started.

Is previous rafting experience required?

No. Previous rafting experience is not required to go whitewater rafting in Colorado. In fact, children as young as three years old who are at least 35 pounds can go on a class II beginner Family Float. Adventurous first-time rafters who are at least six years old and 50 pounds can experience the thrills of class III rafting on Bighorn Sheep Canyon and Browns Canyon (age and weight restrictions fluctuate with water flows – please call for current conditions).

Where is the best place for river rafting in Colorado?

With so many options for river rafting in Colorado, there are a few things you should consider to narrow it down. Finding a convenient location, choosing the best rafting trip for your group, and hiring a reputable rafting company are the most important factors when deciding where to go rafting in Colorado.
Find a convenient rafting location
River Runners Royal Gorge is just one hour from Colorado Springs and River Runners Browns Canyon is only 2.5 hours from Denver. These locations are both located at the heart of Colorado’s two best rafting destinations on the world-renowned Arkansas River.
Choose the best rafting trip

River Runners offers the largest selection of beginner rafting trips in Colorado. Choose from half-day, full-day and overnight tours on beginner, intermediate and advanced whitewater.

Hire a reputable rafting company

River Runners has been teaching people how to raft on the Arkansas River since 1972 and is known throughout Colorado as the “white water professionals”.  An unwavering commitment to safety and customer service has made River Runners one of the most reputable river outfitters in Colorado.

What do you wear white water rafting in Colorado?

River Runners includes wetsuits, splash tops and booties on all tours, but you should always wear a swimsuit underneath. Fleece, rain jackets and other quick dry layers (not cotton) are also appropriate – especially on cooler days. Heel-strap sandals (no flip-flops) or an old pair of tennis shoes are acceptable footwear. Last, but not least, be sure to wear plenty of sun screen and reapply throughout the day.

Do you still have questions about rafting in Colorado?

If you still have questions about whitewater rafting in Colorado check out our frequently asked questions page or call 800-723-8987.