Whitewater Rafting
Rafting in Summit County, Colorado is exciting, beautiful, and fun. Most rafting companies offer guided trips down the Blue River, which is the closest rafting location to the Keystone and Breckenridge resorts. Trips are also available down the more famous Arkansas and Colorado Rivers. Clear Creek and the Eagle River are also close by.
Scenic Rafting Trips
Rafting is a sport that anyone can enjoy. All ages are welcome, as long as you can hold on to the rope! If you are nervous about the whitewater rapids, you may choose a trip that is primarily a scenic adventure. You'll be able to bring your camera and bask in some of the most beautiful canyons in Colorado. Eagles, hawks, blue herons, fish and deer are often sighted during scenic rafting trips. Floating on the pristine water of the Blue River will be a fabulous experience.
Whitewater Rafting Trips
While some raft guiding companies specialize in scenic float trips, others guarantee to take you on the ride of a lifetime! When the water is flowing high, rafting in Summit County, Colorado can be a wild adventure that you will never forget. Holding on for dear life, you get soaking wet as you plunge in to river holes and through huge wave trains. Brown's Canyon is an especially daring section to float during the spring when the snowmelt is flowing off of the mountains.
Other Considerations
Throughout the year, river conditions vary dramatically. For updated information, call any of the local rafting companies. Depending on how the water is flowing, the rafting companies will change the trips that are offered. Therefore, it's best to plan your rafting trip 1-2 weeks ahead of time. Usually, it is also possible to hire a guide on the day that you would like to go.
Most rafting companies in Colorado offer half and full day trips. Oftentimes, cook-outs are part of the adventure. You can choose breakfast, lunch, dinner or all three meals! Be sure to specify if you have any special dietary needs, and the raft companies should be glad to accommodate you. For a true Colorado adventure, overnight trips are highly recommended. The experience of sleeping under the stars to the sound of the river flowing is very special.
To help you prepare for your rafting trip, most companies will provide you with guidelines about what to wear and what to bring. Most companies also will offer the option of renting a wetsuit. Although it's difficult to squeeze your body into the neoprene, a wetsuit will make your trip more enjoyable on all but the hottest days. A hat, sunscreen and sunglasses are also mandatory!
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Other Online Resources
The Colorado River Outfitters Alliance provides training and a standard of service for all river guides.
The National Organization on Rivers provides river and conservation information for boaters.
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