Class II whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River in Buena Vista, Colorado

A River Runners guide rows a family down the Arkansas River in Buena Vista, Colorado.

Adventurous families with young children (who are at least 35 pounds) can experience the wonder of Colorado river rafting on this scenic and fun rafting trip down the Arkansas River. Enjoy splashy class II whitewater rapids, spectacular mountain scenery, and Colorado wildlife on this family rafting adventure in Buena Vista, Colorado. Kids and parents love to stop at the halfway point to swim in the river and explore the river bank – so dress accordingly.

Who should book the Family Float trip?

This can depend slightly on water levels, but generally children as small as 35 pounds are eligible to raft on the Family Float. Families seeking a mild adventure with small children or elderly grandparents should consider this family rafting trip in Buena Vista, Colorado.

Families seeking whitewater adventure with children 6 years and older and meeting a 50 pound weight requirement might want to consider one of our Browns Canyon rafting trips. Let our knowledgeable staff at River Runners help you determine the most appropriate whitewater rafting trip for your family.

FAMILY FLOAT RAFTING TRIP

Know before you book

• Previous whitewater rafting experience is not required to raft the Family Float.
• Participants should be at least 3 years old and 35 pounds for this beginner rafting trip (varies with water flow).
• All Family Float rafting trips use an oar boat unless a paddle boat is specifically requested.
• Risk is involved with all whitewater rafting trips – you and everyone in your party must be willing to accept that risk.
• All participants must read and sign a waiver – minors under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian read and sign a waiver on their behalf.

What to Wear

• You should wear synthetic fabric clothing (avoid cotton), sandals that strap around your foot or an old pair of tennis shoes, a hat, a strap for your eye glasses or sun glasses (available for purchase), quick dry swimsuits or board shorts, and rain gear (jackets and/or pants).
• Wetsuits, splash tops and booties are available for rent at River Runners.
• Apply plenty of sunscreen and reapply throughout the day.
• Guides, rafts, PFDs, helmets and paddles are included.
• Walk-ins are welcome, but advanced rafting reservations are the only way to insure that you get to go rafting – especially during peak season.
• We reserve the right to alter your route based on extreme water flows and other potential safety concerns.
• Book your rafting trip 30 days in advance and save 10% – Use Promo Code: EARLYBIRD