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Clear Creek Whitewater Park – Golden

Golden’s section of Clear Creek is one of the best tubing areas close to Denver. On a hot, sunny day, it can’t be beaten. Clear Creek Whitewater Park offers exciting ripples, waves, and drops.

Anybody looking for a lazier float can avoid a lot of the whitewater by choosing the right stretch of Clear Creek. It’s free to float, as long as you have a tube.

River Tubing and Kayaking

The park is located at the west end of 10th street in downtown Golden . Just follow the creek and the crowds and look for parking as close to the park as you can find. From there, you just hike up the sidewalk as far as you want to go.

There are several fun whitewater sections on the float. Most people will float back down to near the baseball diamond. If you keep going eventually you are forced to get out due to Clear Creek running into the Coors Brewery .

Located next to Clear Creek are a baseball diamond, a sand volleyball court, a large grassy park, and an outdoor calisthenics gym. Shops and restaurants downtown are only a short walk away. Clear Creek RV Park sits adjacent to the creek and offers 22 full hook-ups and 3 tent sites.

Getting There

This one is also not too long, so you’ll be fine with one car and hiking back at the end of the float to do it again. If you have two cars though, you can set up for a longer tube by parking one car at the opposite end of 10th Street and shuttling. When you get to the park, just start walking up the sidewalk as far as you’d like to go.

The path leads into the forest, so make sure to stay on the path by the creek, and eventually, it ends 5 minutes up or so. This is the furthest that most people go. Then drop in and float back down. Once it enters the forest, stay on the left path close to the river which comes to an end in about 5-10 minutes. Drop-in here.

Read more about tubing Clear Creek in Golden .

Address: 1201 10th St, Golden , CO 80401

Season: May-September

Requirements: Kids under 13 must have a life jacket

Admission: Free

Website: cityofgolden.net/…

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The Best Place to Go River Tubing Near Denver

Spend an afternoon floating away in Golden

Natasha Japp Photography/Getty Images

Colorado’s Rocky Mountains are certainly the state’s biggest attraction. The gorgeous peaks to the west of Denver are certainly awe-inducing. But, Colorado also has some great rivers and the ice-cold run-off from the mountains’ snowfall provides an opportunity to cool down in the summer. This is especially welcome when temps are consistently in the 90s.

You can enjoy a dip close to Denver with stunning scenery and float away to your heart's content on a fairly smooth river. One of the best places to do this is Golden’s Clear Creek, which offers some great tubing.

Cozied up to the base of the Rocky Mountains, Golden is less than 30 minutes from Denver. There's enough to do in Golden that you can return after a day on the river and take advantage of the city’s downtown area's apres-tubing eateries. Golden itself is a go-to place for outdoor enthusiasts, whether you're a daring stand-up paddle boarder who wants to trade calm reservoir waters for some rapids or you're a mountain biker looking for some grueling ascents.

Upriver from Golden, you can go whitewater rafting , with floats suitable for beginners to those who are more advanced and can handle whitewater rapids. On some of those more adventurous trips, river rafting companies screen your athletic ability and paddling skills before you can take the trip because the rapids are just that intense. 

The lower stretch of Clear Creek that winds through Golden and is shaded by beautiful trees is perfect for a one-day river tubing getaway from Denver . You can stay a while to enjoy a picnic in a nearby park or explore this historic mining town (which is also home to Coors Brewing Company and the Colorado School of Mines , an engineering university). 

Tubing Basics

• This isn’t exactly a float in the lazy river.  You’ll encounter some fast-moving water as you float along. Those mini-white water rapids look like unassuming ripples in a brook from the walking path but they feel much more powerful when you come face-to-face with them in an inner tube; you can get churned out of your tube and might need to do a little swimming down the creek.
• Wear water shoes.  The Clear Creek River has gobbled up plenty of flip-flops. Wear shoes that secure to your feet so they don’t get swiped away by its characteristic, swirling rapids. Your feet will thank you. When you’re entering and exiting the river, the rocks can be brutal, especially if your feet are sensitive. Plus, you’ll be doing a lot of walking on the concrete between your points of entry and exit, so having shoes makes for a much more comfortable experience.
• Lift your bum:  When you’re nearing rocks or rapids, do a little butt lift do a little butt lift so you don’t wake up bruised the next day. Try to avoid the shallow areas where you can see the rocks, as well. If you get stuck in a slow spot, fellow tubers will give you a friendly budge.
• Get the right tube:  One of those black innertubes from a gas station will do just fine, but the bigger and sturdier tubes with enclosed bottoms will make for a much more joyful ride. They’re easier to steer and the extra stability makes it less likely you’ll topple into the river. 
• Check out how fast the river is running:  The United States Geological Survey (or USGS) monitors the river flow and you can check out daily water flow conditions . When the river is running 40 cfs (cubic feet per second) to 100 cfs, you can expect a mellow to moderate tubing experience. Between 100 and 500 cfs, you’ve got a much swifter ride. And, it’s best to leave the river to the kayakers and canoers when the river gets between 500 and 1,000 cfs. Bans typically go in place if the river is above 1,000 cfs. 
• Know when to go:  With fresh snowmelt in May and June, the river is pretty frigid. By July, the creek warms up some and prime tubing time is in August and September. However, with some balmy days in October, tubing Clear Creek can be a unique way to enjoy the changing leaves.

Planning an Epic Day of Tubing

Fuel up with a good brunch:  Make your first stop the Bridgewater Grill , at 800 11th St. in Golden which is inside the Golden Hotel, and request to sit on the patio where you’ll get a scenic view of Clear Creek. Fuel yourself with a Colorado omelet, decadently stuffed with chorizo and green chilis, or the steel cut oatmeal topped with fresh berries and cream. They also serve Bloody Mary's (and Bloody Maria's, made with tequila) that are garnished so well, you could almost turn them into a meal. 

Buy a tube:  If you’re a local, invest in a tube to call your own and that will take you on future rafting trips. As a bonus, they're great for sledding down snow-kissed hills come winter.Golden Goods, 1201 Washington Ave. in Golden, is near the river and sells some high-quality tubes for under $40. Store employees will even pump up the tube for you so that you can use it right away. 

Rent a tube:  Just visiting? You can rent a tube nearby at Golden River Sports, 806 Washington Ave. in Golden and play all day in the river with the locals. Tube rentals range from $20 to $50 a day, depending on the size and type of tube. You can find more information about the rentals at the Golden River Sports’ Facebook page .

Launch your tube:  Golden’s Clear Creek River is a stand-out for water enthusiasts because the city built a special Whitewater Park, 800 feet in length, constructed with boulders and divided into sections that feature a series of drops and pools. Tubers will come across shallow surf waves, fast eddies, drops, and pools. The course is free and is unsupervised. To access the course, you can park at Lions Park (a prime spot for a picnic, too). There’s also free parking further downstream at Vanover Park if you want to continue on your tubing journey.  A walkable path runs parallel to the Clear Creek River, with lots of drop-in points. It's recommended that you park another car near where you plan to get out so that you can shuttle yourself back to the starting point.

Get a sweet treat:  Like a reward at the finish line, Golden’s main drag has plenty of places where you can grab an ice cream cone. Check out  Golden Sweets at 1299 Washington Avenue in Golden. The ice cream shop and candy store also have a soda fountain. The Pretzel Fluffer Nutter will satiate both your sweet tooth and salty snack cravings; the peaches and cream shake is a summer-time favorite. 

Continue to Play in Golden 

Picnic or relax in the parks: Just north of Clear Creek, Lions Park is a local gem, complete with a horseshoe pit, sand volleyball court, and a newly remodeled playground for kids. Down the creek, you can relax at Vanover Park with the sound of the creek in the background providing the perfect soundtrack for a relaxing afternoon. The east side of the park features a climbing structure and nature play elements for kids to monkey around on.

Rent a bike:  Continue your adventure on two wheels by renting a bike from Golden's  Bike Library , located at 1010 10th St. The bikes are free if you ride for less than two hours. Otherwise, it's a $10 a day rental fee. Unlike typical bike shares, the bike library has a variety of bikes available for rent, including road bikes, mountain bikes, children bikes and light-weight geared bikes that are good for traversing Golden's hills. 

Have dinner at Abejas: Enjoy the season's best ingredients at Abejas , located at 807 13th St. in Golden. The restaurant's focus is seasonal meals prepared with local ingredients, which makes for an ever-changing menu. Dinner is served from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. The local fish dish is a must-have on the summer menu.

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CLEAR CREEK WHITEWATER KAYAKING PARK

Dedicated in 1998, the Clear Creek Whitewater Park is one of Golden’s most unique recreational attractions. Built for recreational canoeing and kayaking, the course is one-quarter of a mile of adventurous, splashing fun!

This innovative recreational experience is divided into sections. The course is 800 feet in length, built with natural boulders, and divided into sections. The top is a series of drops and pools of different experience levels and has some fast eddies. The middle portion consists of flat, broad, shallow surf waves with huge random boulders – a prime workplace for gates. The bottom section entertains paddlers with more extreme surf and wave drops.

The class of this course will require paddlers proficient in fast-moving, cold water, particularly during high flow season. There are no fees for drop-in usage and the course is unsupervised.

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Visitor Parking in Downtown Golden

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Turtle Tubing

Float through colorful colorado, choose your river cruise, vail valley: group buyout turtle transpertainment & river float.

Private, Round-Trip Turtle Bus Transpertainment + Turtle Tubing down the Colorado River for a 2 hour float.

Perfect for families, special events, or just a day filled with adventure.

Vail Valley: Shared Turtle Bus Transpertainment & River Float

Shared, Round-Trip Turtle Bus Transpertainment + Turtle Tubing down the Colorado River for a 2 hour float.

Make memories and new friends!

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Meet at Dotsero Landing | 2 Hour Turtle Float

2 – 2.5 Hour Turtle Float. Drive & Park. Meet the Turtle Team at Dotsero Landing for a float that comes to an end our customized rock stairway that we call “Turtle Beach.”

Meet at Dotsero Landing | 3.5 Hour Turtle Float

3 – 3.5 Hour Turtle Float. Drive & Park. Meet the Turtle Team at Dotsero Landing for a beautiful float that comes to an end at Bair Ranch .

Turtle Tube Rentals

Same Day Tube Rentals. Rent our Multi-Person Turtle Tubes to explore the river on your own!

Vail Valley Tubing Tours

Includes Turtle Bus Transpertainment!

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Unguided, Same Day Tube Rentals

Meet at the River Tours

Skip the Transpertainment, Meet us on the river!

Explore Nature’s Water Park with Turtle Tubing!

Turtle Tubing is perfect for:

• Large group events or special occations
• A unique afternoon with friends
• Wholesome family outings (Kids 2+ are welcome!)
• Making new friends while exploring the outdoors

Hop on a Turtle Tube and let the river decide your pace!

Vail's Best River Tubing Company!

"Love this so much! The tube cruising was fantastic and beautiful down the Colorado river. With amazing pizza at the end. Love this business model!!"

"The owner and all the guides are amazing. Incredible experience. Very seamless. They are very accommodating, patient, informative, experienced, and FUN! Went for my bachelorette party and had a blast. We recommend brining a little picnic to share with your friends on the tube."

"My husband and I decided to "float" down the Colorado River since we had never done something like this before. We had a blast! Being able to float together was a great experience and the highlight of our trip."

"An absolutely breathtaking, relaxing, comfortable, easy float down the beautiful river through the canyons in Eagle County! I went with my mother and younger sister this past week! HIGHLY recommended"

"We did the 2 hour Dotsero float in June while on vacation in Colorado, and it was one of the highlights of our trip."

"This was a relaxing and beautiful float trip on the Colorado River. I did this trip with 3 teenagers and an 11 year old. Shane, the owner, greeted us at the river and was friendly and enthusiastic.... I highly recommend this great way to chill and spend time together."

"Floating down the Colorado River was so much fun. The price was reasonable, the staff I encountered were helpful and friendly. I can’t wait to go again"

"We had a total of 5 couples and we tethered our tubes together for the float. The float was very relaxing and the views were beautiful. We laughed a lot and enjoyed our time together. The equipment and instructions were good. I would highly recommend."

"We had a blast on our float with Turtle Tubing! We went early in the season on a weekday and ended up with the bus to ourselves for a group of 6. We enjoyed getting the party started with a song led by our bus driver, Dave. The staff getting us in to the floats was wonderful. Danielle hung out on a paddle board on the river and checked in on us a few times to make sure everything was good. The tubes they provided were awesome! They’re huge and comfortable! I highly recommend taking a float with Turtle Tubing!"

"We loved floating the river! We didn't realize that we would all be riding in one tube. We booked it at the last minute and ran to the drop off in Dotsero. Thankfully the sweet girls that put us in the river let us run up the little store and get snacks and drinks. We had a blast! It was a perfect laid back morning and the scenery could not have been more gorgeous! We will definitely be back! We will bring a cooler with drinks and lunch next time. I highly recommend this for families and groups. So fun!"

The Turtle Bus

Transportation meets Entertainment:  The Turtle Bus is a rolling, mobile Tiki Lounge suited to enhance any of your adventures with friends and family. 

Each of our buses are equipped with a tiki-themed interior, wood floors, and custom seating. Our open floor plans allow for socialization and dancing to your own music! 

Transform your special occasion or just take a cruise around the town!

Round Trip Trainspertainment from Denver, Boulder, Vail, Longmont, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Aspen, and more.

Turtle Bus Pizza

Turtle Bus Pizza is a Colorado-based catering service.  We specialize in gourmet, Neapolitan style, wood-fired pizza. With our mobile wood-fire oven, we can facilitate fun anytime-anywhere! We provide a unique catering experience for weddings, rehearsal dinners, corporate events, block parties, graduations, tailgating parties and nearly any type of event.

We can even bring our mobile bar!

Zipline and Ropes Course now open 7 days a week -- Whitewater Rafting begins May 11!

The best white water rafting in colorado

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About White Water Rafting In Colorado

Colorado white water rafting is always an unforgettable experience. We are still telling river stories after many years and thousands of river miles, and we want to be part of your river story. Our Colorado white water rafting trips are designed with your adventurous spirit in mind. Look to Colorado Adventure Center for exciting white water rafting adventures for every experience level, from scenic floats where you get a chance to view wildlife or sit quietly listening to nature, to heart-stopping white water rafting trips with crashing waves and heart-pumping paddling. Some trips offer both in one day!

QUICK DETAILS:

• Levels: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
• Minimum age: 7 years for beginner, 14 years for intermediate, 16 years for advanced
• Season: Early May to late August depending on water levels
• Minimum weight: 50lbs
• Wetsuits are complementary on all rafting trips and required on intermediate and advanced.

BEGINNER RAFT TRIP

$79+ PER PERSON

The Clear Creek Beginner raft trip offers lots of easy white water rapids and terrific views. A perfect choice for first timers, families and groups with varying ability levels.

A Clear Creek Beginner river rafting trip is the perfect adventure for the entire family! This trip offers up plenty of white water rapids, beautiful scenery and some peaceful float water. You’ll have a blast splashing through Class II-III rapids where we’ll help you develop your paddling skills. Relax as you meander through the historic mining town of Idaho Springs past the Argo Gold Mine and Charlie Taylor waterwheel. Keep an eye out for wildlife in the canyons surrounding you as you enjoy your Colorado adventure. This is a fabulous trip for first timers, families and large groups with varying ability levels.

River Class Class II-III

Requirements 7 years old / 50 pounds subject to change with river and weather conditions

Meeting Location Idaho Springs Basecamp 2697 Stanley Road, Idaho Springs, CO 80452

Included Wetsuits

INTERMEDIATE RAFT TRIP

$89+ PER PERSON

Our most popular trip! A great choice for experienced paddlers or aggressive first timers. This intermediate half day trip offers challenging nonstop Class IV and V rapids white water and fabulous views.

The Clear Creek Intermediate raft trip is a great choice for experienced paddlers or aggressive first timers craving the thrill and challenge of white water. From the very start of this adventure at our private put-in, be prepared for white water action. This trip will definitely get you wet and your adrenaline pumping while paddling through “Nomad”, “Fall River” and “Deliverance” rapids. Ramp up the excitement level with the grand finale Class IV “Outer Limits”, then enjoy your journey through the historic gold mining town of Idaho Springs.

River Class Class IV and V rapids

Requirements Minimum age 14 years subject to change with river conditions. We recommend but don’t require the ability to swim.

ADVANCED RAFT TRIP

$109+ PER PERSON

This is the most extreme, steep and technical stretch of Clear Creek for experienced paddlers only. With very little time to warm up, rafters drop right into Class IV-V white water that is fast and furious.

The Clear Creek Advanced raft trip is for experienced paddlers only. With very little time to warm up, rafters drop right into Class IV-V white water that is fast, wild and non-stop! The names of the rapids such as “Guide Ejector”, “Hell’s Corner”, “Double Knife” and “Terminator” give you a glimpse of what to expect. This is the most extreme, steep and technical stretch of Clear Creek that requires the ability to swim, strong physical conditioning and prior experience. For those up to the challenge, you will not be disappointed!

River Class Class IV-V

Requirements 16 years minimum age with prior rafting experience and ability to swim is required

Rafting In Colorado photo gallery

EXPERIENCED, TOP-RATED COLORADO RAFTING GUIDES

As one of the first outfitters to take guests paddling on Clear Creek, we have years of experience and have developed a special affection for this waterway’s narrow, technical nature. The Creek shoots out of the Colorado mountains high atop the Continental Divide and rushes toward Denver at a steady clip. It’s rafting in Colorado as you’d expect it…exhilarating and stunning at the same time.

The best thing about running rivers in Colorado is the wide variety of difficulty levels you can choose from. White water rafting in Colorado has something for everyone from young children to experienced white water enthusiasts. When choosing a white water raft trip, you should always keep in mind the ability of every member of your group. It is a good idea to choose an adventure that is geared to the person with the lowest ability level. Remember, every river adventure is fun, even the most mellow experience. Rafting rivers is more than just wild white water and extreme excitement; it is the total experience that creates memories of a lifetime. A positive Colorado white water rafting experience can include white water excitement as well as wildlife, beautiful views, rich history told by knowledgeable guides and, most of all, enjoying a comfortable experience with friends and family. Keeping this in mind, it might be necessary to adjust your expectations to accommodate everyone’s comfort levels.

This will begin to help you choose the trip best suited to your group’s abilities.

Our staff has years of experience helping our guests select the very best adventures so please email us today at [email protected] or call us at 720-807-3250. Your Colorado adventure awaits and is closer than you think! 

Colorado Adventure Center offers white water rafting adventures for every experience level, from scenic float trips on which you get a chance to view wildlife or sit quietly listening to nature, to heart-stopping white water rapids with crashing waves and vigorous paddling. To enhance your rafting experience, why not get familiar with Clear Creek and the class of rapids you will be navigating. Here is a little history on Clear Creek and its different sections of white water.

Clear Creek is the 2nd most rafted river in Colorado, and for good reason. With more rapids per mile than any other river in Colorado, Clear Creek offers world class rafting conveniently located just 40 minutes from Downtown Denver. Clear Creek is a tributary of the South Platte River, approximately 66 miles long. The creek flows through Clear Creek Canyon in the Rocky Mountains, directly west of Denver, and descends through a long gorge where it emerges on the Colorado Eastern Plains and eventually joins the South Platte River. Clear Creek is unusual because it is actually a stream, but named a “creek” and is fed by stream called a “river” – the Fall River, which empties into Clear Creek along I-70 west of Idaho Springs.

Clear Creek is famous for its location as one of the most intense early gold mining hot spots during the Colorado Gold Rush of 1859. Clear Creek also provided the route for the Colorado Central Railroad and later, U.S. Highway 6 and I-70.

The Clear Creek riverbed is composed of blasted river rock as a result of the gold mining industry. This is what creates the rumbling rapids through Clear Creek Canyon as water flows over river rock and makes for challenging raft trips as you navigate through these giant boulders and class II – IV rapids. Appropriately named by French hunters on the Stephen H. Long expedition as early as 1820, Clear Creek was originally called Cannonball Creek – after the oversized river rock. In the 1830s, Clear Creek became known as Vasquez Fork and later, Vasquez River, after fur trader Louis Vasquez who built his fort at the mouth of Clear Creek and trapped along it. Clear Creek officially gained its present name from the gold rushers in 1859.

Kayakers discovered Clear Creek in the 1950s, but were chased away with the construction of I-70. Then, in 1989, commercial rafting kicked off on Clear Creek and has since become one of Colorado’s most popular white water rafting and kayaking destinations.

Clear Creek has an average gradient of 67 feet per mile and over 100 feet per mile on its advanced sections – simply meaning more rapids per mile. Clear Creek is divided into different sections according to class of rapids from perfect beginner rapids to thrilling intermediate and heart-racing advanced sections. Here at Colorado Adventure Center’s Idaho Springs Base Camp, Clear Creek typically runs from Class II to Class IV rapids, providing fast-paced, exciting white water conveniently located along I-70. Colorado Adventure Center runs beginner rafting trips between Idaho Springs and Two Bears Tap and Grill (previously historic Kermits), and intermediate and advanced trips along the neighboring historic mining towns of Dumont and Lawson.

A little further up the the hill from Denver, the Upper Clear Creek runs  Class IV and V rapids , offering exhilarating white water that is both fast-paced and challenging. For even more of a challenge, the Lower Clear Creek Canyon, close to Golden, houses Class IV and V rapids. This exciting section of white water provides a great side raft trip just outside the city.. While fun to watch, this section is advanced, steep, technical, and demanding white water, and not for the faint of heart!

Now that you’ve learned a little history about Clear Creek and the types of rapids you will be cruising on,  check out our raft trip pages  and book your raft trip today!

We offer many classes of difficulty within our Colorado rafting trips, from beginner all the way to expert. From paddling along with the guide to letting them do all (or most of) the work, you get to custom-create your Colorado rafting trip. For detailed information on our river and rapids rating systems, click here. This will begin to help you choose the trip best suited to your group’s abilities.

Our staff has years of experience helping our guests select the very best adventures so please email us today at [email protected] or call us at 720-807-3250. Your Colorado adventure awaits and is closer than you think! d

The thrills and excitement of white water rafting are located just minutes from Denver and the Front Range, and an easy drive from Winter Park, Summit County and the Vail Valley. Conveniently located in Idaho Springs, the Colorado Adventure Center has access to some of the best white water in the state on Clear Creek. Perfect for families wanting to get away from the city for the afternoon or visitors from out of state searching for an authentic Colorado experience. Regardless of your skill level, our team at the Colorado Adventure Center strives to provide a white water experience that is fun, safe, exciting, and creates memories lasting a lifetime.

The Colorado Adventure Center operates its Colorado white water rafting trips from our beautiful base camp facility easily accessed off I-70. Our selection of trips and times allows you to pick the very best options for your white water rafting adventure in Colorado. We tell you what to bring, when and where to meet us, then we provide everything you need including transport to and from the river. Don’t worry, we’ve perfected the logistics so you can focus on the adventure!

what our guests say

Now that you’ve learned a little history about Clear Creek and the types of rapids you will be cruising on, check out our raft trip pages and book your raft trip today!

The weather in the Colorado Rocky Mountains is very unpredictable and varies from mile to mile and minute to minute. Colorado averages over 300 days of sunshine a year. The odds are, the weather will be good. We run our  Colorado white water rafting trips in all weather conditions, rain or shine, and have gear available to help keep you comfortable, even in the worst conditions. Wetsuits, neoprene booties, and splash tops can really make a big difference and make your trip a pleasurable one. Don’t forget, you’re going to get wet rafting, even on the sunniest of days. Weather is not a cause for cancellation.

Nope! Except for advanced,  you can go white water rafting even if you can’t swim . Each person will be fitted with a Type-V Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (life jacket) to be worn while on the river at all times. This life jacket is designed to float the wearer on their back with their head out of the water. Guests are instructed on the proper use of this life jacket in a safety orientation talk before departure. It does help to have some knowledge of swimming, especially in some of the more aggressive sections.

Our basecamp facility and boathouse is in Idaho Springs/Dumont right off of I-70 where we’ll meet, get you checked in, geared up, and introduce you to your guide. We provide location and directions in our reservation confirmation letter to you when you reserve your trip. Then, we take care of everything else, including transportation between the river and the basecamp. We are located at 2697 Stanley Road, Idaho Springs, CO 80452. You may call our office at 720-807-3250 for more specific directions to our basecamp.

All our guides go through extensive river training, basic first aid, CPR, and are certified by the state of Colorado. While anyone can fall out of the boat at any time, keep in mind that your chances of falling out of the raft do increase when rafting in a paddle boat and on more challenging sections of river. Rafting is an adventure sport and involves a degree of risk on the part of the participant. Although we take precautions to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip, we cannot be responsible for lost or damaged articles and/or personal injury. We require you to acknowledge these risks by reading and signing a liability release prior to departure. All children under the age of 18 must have signed release form from a parent or guardian. It is important for the group to choose a trip within their entire group’s limits. Read our Customer Responsibility Policy for more information. 

Altitude sickness can be a problem, especially for people coming to the mountains from sea level. To prevent altitude sickness, stay hydrated by drinking extra amounts of water, and stay away from alcohol and caffeine. Altitude sickness can be serious. You may experience an upset stomach, headaches, dizziness, or shortness of breath — please inform your guide so they are aware of your symptoms and can begin treatment as soon as possible.

Our guides make a base wage similar to a bartender or wait person. General guidelines for tipping would be the same as for a bartender or a waitperson (~20%). Please do not feel obligated to tip, but if you do believe in tipping, and the guide has proven to do a great job, it is a nice way to express your appreciation, but only if you feel you had a safe, fun, and informative experience. If you did not have a pleasurable and adequate experience, we would appreciate it if you would please bring it to the attention of our management. Feedback and letters from our guests are greatly appreciated and helps us maintain the highest standard of customer service and appreciation.

You are going to get wet, so it’s a good idea to be prepared. Avoid cotton clothing, as it tends to get wet and stay wet – not to mention taking valuable warmth from your body’s surface. Bathing suits and shorts are recommended. Your best bet is loose, woven materials such as wool, polypro, fleece, micro fleece, polyester, waterproof jackets, and any other outdoor material that dries fast. Staying dry, or at least drying off fast, is the key to staying warm. Towels don’t do you much good because there is no way to keep them dry. There is limited space on the rafts, so you should limit what you bring to what you can wear. We provide wetsuits and have booties and splash tops available for rent. This equipment is designed to keep you warm and comfortable. Personal flotation devices (PFDs) and helmets are included with all rafting adventures. On some Colorado white water rafting trips, wetsuits are recommended and on others, wetsuits are required. This is to help keep you warm, comfortable and protected on your white water rafting trip.

Bring a few towels to leave in your car; you’ll be happy to have something to dry off with after white water rafting. Bring a change of dry clothes to leave in your car; our basecamps offer changing rooms so you can be comfortable after your Colorado raft adventure. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, sunglass straps and hats that protect from the sun. If you forget, our basecamps offer these items in the retail areas where our white water rafting trips meet. Bring water for pre-rafting and post-rafting hydration. Remember, you’re in the Colorado Rockies, and it’s important to stay hydrated! We also suggest bringing cash to tip your guide. Check out our “ 10 Tips for White Water Rafting Beginners ” for more information!

This depends on what you’re interested in. If big, exciting water is what your group is looking for, then high-water season is the best time.  June is traditionally high-water season . When rivers run at their peak, it can make for a big ride. Keep in mind some sections may close due to high water conditions. Most people enjoy normal run off-season, which is mid-June to early August. The water stays consistent and the days tend to be sunny and warm with the occasional afternoon rain shower. Water levels and weather are very unpredictable, so book a date that best suits the group and be prepared for the unexpected.

We require full payment at the time of reservation and our cancellation policy differs, depending on whether or not you have purchased Worry-Free Cancellation plan . We highly recommend purchasing Worry-Free Cancellation plan , as it allows you the flexibility you many need. Please click here  to review our cancellation policy.

River and rapid classifications are another great way to determine the suitable age for a river trip  for your group. Remember that classification can change with weather and water conditions.

• Beginner = first timers, young children
• Intermediate = aggressive first timers, teens
• Advanced = experienced paddlers looking for an adventure

This River Rapids Class Rating System is strictly a subjective scale. You can characterize a rapid by class or give a general class to a whole river even though it has several different classes of rapids within it. The class of a rapid or river can change at different water levels. The temperature of the water, the air temperature, the remoteness of the river, and the difficulty of a rescue can all influence the rapid’s class.

• Class I – Easy. Small riffles. No significant waves or obstacles.
• Class II – Novice. Moderate rapids with regular waves, small drops, clear passages and wide channels. Occasional maneuvering may be required.
• Class III – Intermediate. Moderately difficult rapids with larger irregular waves, often narrow channels. Complex maneuvering to avoid obstacles required.
• Class IV – Advanced. Intense, powerful rapids requiring precise maneuvering in fast, turbulent water. Complex channels with many significant obstacles to be avoided.
• Class V – Expert. Extremely long violent or obstructed rapids, often following each other almost without interruption. Drops may have large, unavoidable waves and holes or steep, congested chutes with difficult routes. Steep gradient.
• Class VI – Unrunnable.

Classifications of river sections may change due to water levels. For information to help you choose a trip, or for any questions you might have please, call  1-720-807-3250  and our office personnel will be happy to assist you in putting together a river experience. Or,  send us a message .

Cold weather gear is recommended and may be mandatory for some river adventures. Cold weather gear is not only for your comfort but also for your safety. Because of cold water and rocky river bottoms, wetsuits, footwear, and splash tops make a big difference. If you don’t have your own equipment, don’t worry; cold weather gear is available at all basecamp locations for a small rental fee.

We do not charge taxes on our services because we are not required to by law. We are, however, required to pay numerous fees to many local, regional and state organizations, including but not limited to the City of Idaho Springs, Clear Creek County, Division of Oil and Public Safety (OPS), Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Colorado Department of Revenue and our property owner.

In addition to those fees, our booking software and credit card fees charge a large percentage of each transaction. When weather cancels events, we eat this cost. If weather is not the cancellation reason, however, we must charge the customer to recoup that cost.

In addition, we are a voluntary member of numerous local, state and national organizations that offer regulatory and strategic support to us as an outfitter. These membership costs are not included in our fees but they do provide additional layers of safety and professionalism that not all outfitters adhere to but we are committed to following. These include: Colorado River Outfitter’s Association (CROA), America Outdoors (AO), Association for Challenge Course Technology (ACCT) and more. 

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Best Whitewater Rafting Near Golden, Colorado

Golden was originally named Golden City after an early settler and miner, Tom Golden. Golden City was initially meant to be one of Colorado’s many mining towns, but instead became a supply center and convenient transportation hub for wagons to go to and from the Rocky Mountains. It was in 1859 that early settlers like Tom Golden first discovered gold in Clear Creek – the river that runs through the heart of the town.

Golden is still thriving and is now home to local mines, quarries, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, a whitewater kayak park, and the famous Coors Brewery. It attracts visitors for its quaint downtown and proximity to the mountains. The Golden area and its location in Colorado’s foothills offers access to hiking, biking, whitewater rafting , and kayaking opportunities.

Whitewater Rafting Clear Creek Near Golden, Colorado

Clear Creek is a popular destination throughout the summer for whitewater rafting enthusiasts and those looking for a day getaway from the city.  Because it is only about 20-30 minutes from Denver, you can get out on the water and be back in town for your dinner reservation in the evening.  Clear Creek offers multiple classes of rapids for rafters of levels near Idaho Springs, a historic town with both outdoor activities and dining opportunities. Read more about Idaho Springs activities and restaurants .

Rapid Classes on Clear Creek

Class iii rapids – gold rush.

If your group is on the hunt for a shorter, family-friendly excursion, the Gold Rush 1/3 day trip on Clear Creek’s Class III rapids offers splashy rapids perfect for children 6 and up.  Cruise through the historic town of Idaho Springs on this section, and spot some former mining sites along the way.

Class IV Rapids – Upper Clear Creek

Starting the furthest west and upstream, the Class IV stretch of Upper Clear Creek provides steep and continuous rapids to navigate through for nearly 8 miles on a half day rafting trip.  For ages 15 and older, this trip and section of Clear Creek is perfect for those looking to up the adrenaline.

Class V Rapids – Lower Canyon

Fit for the daredevils, this section of Clear Creek covered in our half day Lower Canyon trip provides not only some jaw dropping scenery within a beautiful canyon but also some intense Class V rapids that drop 150 feet per mile over the course of 10 miles.

Tubing Clear Creek in Golden, Colorado

Another go-to summer activity with visitors and locals is tubing the Clear Creek through the town of Golden, Colorado and the Clear Creek Whitewater Park.  This section of whitewater is downstream from the higher class rapids and a hotspot for those trying to cool off during the dog days of summer.  You can bring your own tube or rent one from one of the many shops in the town.  Check out Golden River Sports , and don’t forget to wear a PFD and helmet for safety!

Whitewater Kayaking Clear Creek Near Golden, Colorado

For the more experienced rafting enthusiasts, venturing out in a kayak near Golden can be a fun solo or group activity. Kayakers can take on all classes of rapids on Clear Creek through Idaho Springs, as well as Coors Falls – a nearly 10 foot drop waterfall upstream just west of Empire.

If you’re sticking close to the front range and want to take the playboat out, join the tubers at the Clear Creek Whitewater Park. This area hosts fun competitions and activities throughout the summer every year.  Test your skills in front of a crowd in downtown Golden! Read more about whitewater kayaking near Golden .

More Adventures Near Golden

At our outpost in Idaho Springs, visitors can also take on a zipline or Via Ferrata experience, or combine either of these mountain activities with a whitewater rafting trip in a multi-adventure package . These unique trips allow you to experience Colorado’s foothills from a different perspective, as you climb high into the mountainside.

With plenty of adventure options, as well as historical opportunities, restaurants, and breweries, we’re sure your you will have plenty to explore during your time in Golden. View all of our Colorado adventure trips .

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Let Us Guide Your Path To Adventure

AVA offers you the best Colorado whitewater rafting trips, zipline tours and more in some of the Rocky Mountain’s most beautiful locations. Find a trip near you with rafting on 9 rivers, zipline tours in 2 locations, fly fishing, rock climbing, horseback riding, and more.

Select a Location

When do you plan to travel, what’s the youngest in your party, which activities do you want to do, what level of intensity are you looking for.

Denver’s Best Choice for Whitewater Rafting Trips in Colorado

PLANNING YOUR RAFTING ADVENTURE FOR 2024? We are now accepting reservations. Rafting season typically begins in mid-May and runs to Labor Day. Part-day trips, Full-day trips and Multi-day trips.

Offering great value / competitive pricing, (303) 756-6070.

Clear Creek

(Class III to IV+) is located near Idaho Springs, Colorado, minutes from Geo’s Morrison base, Clear Creek is the closest “true” whitewater rafting to Denver. Half-day morning or afternoon rafting runs available.

The Arkansas River

(Class III to IV) – Geo Tours has been running raft trips on the Arkansas River since the early 1980’s and maintains an excellent safety record. All raft trips launch in or near Buena Vista, Colorado.

The Upper Colorado

(Class I to III) boasts picturesque canyons and valleys, easily accessible from Denver because we do the driving! We offer 1-Day, Overnight, 2-Day, 3-Day, and 4-Day rafting expeditions for all ages.

Part-Day, All-Day, Multi-Day

Geo Tours offers whitewater raft trips on three of Colorado’s favorite rivers and every level of FUN from leisurely float trips to heart-pounding whitewater. Part-day & All-day trips on Clear Creek are easy to access from Geo Tours’ base in Morrison and Transport from base to Clear Creek is FREE .   All-day & Multi-day trips on the Upper Colorado and Arkansas rivers require a bit more travel but let you immerse yourself in a true Colorado experience. Depending on how much time you have, we’ve got the trip you are looking for.

40+ Years Outfitting Experience

Geo Tours Denver has been putting the FUN in rafting adventures, under the same management, since 1981.  We are a small, locally owned white water  rafting company and that’s just the way we like it! Our size allows us to provide you with a personalized whitewater rafting experience. Geo only uses state of the art equipment and places a highest priority on customer safety. We are not just thrill seekers, but fun-seekers with an eye always on safety.

Based in Denver Metro

Geo Tours is headquartered, just 20 minutes from Downtown Denver, in the small town of Morrison, Colorado. Morrison is easy to get to from anywhere in the Denver Metro Area. Morrison is located 3.3 miles south of Interstate 70 at Exit 259 or just west of C-470 at the Morrison Road Exit. Meet us in Morrison or at the river put-in. We provide FREE transportation from our base to Clear Creek. In addition,   Geo Tours can arrange transportation for those wishing to m eet up in the Metro Denver Area. Give us a call and let’s work out the details for your Colorado white water rafting trip.

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR NEW CREW MEMBERS! WE HAVE PART TIME AND FULL TIME POSITIONS AS; OFFICE ASSISTANT, DRIVERS/PHOTOGRAPHERS AND RAFT GUIDES (BOTH NEWBIE AND VETERANS).

  GEO offers a variety of raft trips from its Headquarters in Morrison CO. on three rivers in Colorado. Part-day trips on Clear Creek are our most popular and  in addition we  offer Full-day and Multi-day trips on either the Arkansas River or the Upper Colorado River. A typical rafting season is  from mid-May until Labor Day in early September.

There is a wealth of information about our operations here on the website and feel free to contact me with any questions you might have,  You can  contact Geo at 303-756-6070 or at [email protected]

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Paddle Raft, Oar Raft or Inflatable Kayaks

Your choice of adventures include Paddle Raft, where you help control your raft and assist the guide, or you can sit back in an Oar Raft and enjoy the rapids while your guide does most of the work. Inflatable Kayaks are also available on some stretches. Certain options may be unavailable on specific trips or in times of high water conditions.

Call us today @ 800-660-7238 to book your whitewater rafting trip. Our staff will guide you through all the things you need to help you get the most out of your rafting trip.

Winner of a Gold Star Certificate from BBB Denver/Boulder, 2014 – for having no complaints in a three-year period.

Be In-the-Know, Before You Go!

EXPERIENCE:

-Professionally Guided Tour -Lunch on the river -Cameron Trading Post -Glen Canyon Dam -Navajo Reservation -Oak Creek Canyon (from Sedona)

Tour Highlights :  Complimentary pick-up at all Sedona, Village of Oak Creek, and Flagstaff Hotels and Resorts (within city limits)- Narrated transportation - Oak Creek Canyon (from Sedona) - Navajo Reservation and Trading Post - National Park River Fees - All river rafting fees - Lunch on the banks of the Colorado River: specialty requests available with 48 hours advance notice.

Colorado River Smooth Float

Incredible scenery and wildlife on this gentle, smooth-water tour on the Colorado River from Sedona and Flagstaff

Your Colorado River Rafting Float Tour starts off with a scenic and narrated ride from the Red Rocks of Sedona, through Oak Creek Canyon (from Sedona - one of the top 10 scenic drives in America) and through the towering Ponderosa Pines of Flagstaff.

Upon your arrival in Page, Arizona, you'll drive through a spectacular 2-mile tunnel through the cliff walls of Glen Canyon, right to the base of the Glen Canyon Dam.

Between Glen Canyons' walls that rise over a thousand feet, you float on your raft tour along a gentle stretch of the Colorado River just south of Lake Powell and the mighty Glen Canyon Dam.

Sit back and relax as your river guide leads you on a breathtaking journey of colorful rock formations, soaring wildlife, ancient Indian petroglyphs, folklore as well as natural and human history. Stop off for an easy hike to get a closer look at the petroglyphs, and enjoy your picnic lunch on the beach. Specialty lunches available with notice, let us know at the time of booking.

On your return trip to Sedona or Flagstaff from your Colorado River Raft Float Tour, you'll pass by the Echo Cliffs and western edge of the Painted Desert as you re-cross the Navajo Reservation for a stop at the historic Cameron Trading Post. Shop for all sorts of Native American arts and craft souvenirs and visit The Gallery, home of many fine and rare pieces of Indian Arts and Crafts.

Adults (12+)....................$289 (plus tax) Children (6-11yrs)...........$269 (plus tax)*

Tour departs Wednesday Only, seasonal May to October Full-day -  Lunch Included Requires 7-Day Cancellation for refund.

Tour departs from Sedona at approximately 6:00 a.m.-6:30 a.m. Tour returns to Sedona at approximately 6:30 p.m.

Tour departs from Flagstaff at approximately 6:45 a.m.-7:15 a.m. Tour returns to Flagstaff at approximately 5:30 p.m.

Schedule: This trip runs on Wednesday's

All prices are subject to 9.35% Arizona sales tax and do not include gratuities, it is recommended to tip your guide 15%-20% if you enjoyed your tour.

Please bring a towel, sunglasses and suncreen.

Lunch is provided.

• Turkey Sandwich: Turkey  on whole wheat bread with cheese, lettuce, spinach, bell peppers, tomatoes, pickles and cucumbers, plus side of avocado spread
• Veggie Sandwich: Veggies on whole wheat bread with cheese, lettuce, spinach, bell peppers, tomatoes, pickles and cucumbers, plus side of avocado spread
• Salad (for gluten-free & vegetarian requests) - cheese on gluten-requests

Cancellation Policy: For this tour - 7 day prior cancellation notice

Please Note:   Guests may bring a backpack. Note that Homeland Security will look through bag prior to departure, so see-through pack is recommended. Guests may also bring their own snacks in a clear, plastic bag.

Seasonal Tour:    This spectacular tour runs seasonally, from May 1st through October 1st, on Wednesdays

All prices are subject to local sales tax and do not include gratuities. 15% - 20% is the average gratuity if you enjoyed your tour. 

Cancelation Policy:

Full refunds are offered on cancellations made 48 hours prior to the scheduled tour departure with the following exceptions:

All Train bookings require 72-hour cancellation for a refund.

Antelope Canyon Tours requires 72-hour cancellation and Guests must have good mobility.  Colorado River Float Trip Tour: 7-day prior cancellation notice, no exceptions.

We recommend trip cancellation insurance for all travelers. Cancellation details for any custom tour program will be contained in your group contract. Please refer to your contract for details. Cancellations must be received in writing or by facsimile to Arizona Tour & Travel Group.

·         Tour prices and availability are subject to change without notice. ·         *Children 8 and under must be in a guest-owned car seat or booster seat.

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South Platte River Tubing

Littleton, CO

South Platte River Tubing at Breckenridge Brewery Ages 5+

(This float is dependent on a Chatfield Reservoir dam release – Open Thurs-Mon)

Mon/Thurs Mellow Float

• Child ticket is for 12 & Under

Fri-Sun Mellow Float

South platte river tubing- a mellower float.

Adventure West’s South Platte River tubing location offers a   reservations only   tube rental and shuttle service package. We are lo cated just 10 miles south of Denver within the Breckenridge Brewery property on the South Platte River. Our tube shuttle takes you to the put-in and outfits you with a commercial grade river tube and complimentary lifejacket (free helmets also available upon request). Enjoy a 1½ -3 hour (depending on speed of river flow) float with one small to medium sized kayak chute (rapid). This 2½ mile picturesque river journey takes you through Carsen Nature Center where wildlife abounds!

Your float concludes back where you parked at the brewery near Reynold’s Landing. Hungry or thirsty after your float? Stop in at Breckenridge Brewery’s Farm House Restaurant for a delicious beverage and freshly prepared food!

Planning Your Trip:

• Reservations required for tube rental/shuttle package and recommended for our tube rental and public tube shuttle. Book early – this is a popular excursion!
• Please  arrive 15 minutes before your reservation  and check-in at the Adventure West tube trailer off Brewery Lane. The tube shuttle leaves promptly at the booking time.
• Participants must be able to swim. All minors (17 years and younger) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to co-sign liability waiver. Please no infants or children under 3. All children should be able to swim in a lifejacket.
• Shoes required – we have high quality surf booties for rent for just $5.
• Wear your bathing suit. Adventure West has tubing gear available for purchase for reasonable prices. See FAQ for complete list.
• River flow rate changes throughout the season as the S. Platte is dam-controlled. Most of the summer season, this is a great float for adults and children (older than 3). Click here  for current flow rate. 
• No alcohol allowed on the river per park rules , BUT, GREAT NEWS! Your float concludes right at the Breckenridge Brewery where you can enjoy great food and beverages!
• For customer safety and per park rules, we cannot put people who are intoxicated on the water.
• For the local weather forecast, please check   Littleton weather . Plan accordingly as trips run rain or shine.

South Platte River Tubing- Policies

• All participants must sign our waiver and  all minors must have a liability waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian.
• Photo ID is required to rent. You will be charged the full retail amount of any significantly damaged, destroyed, or lost equipment.
• Same-day refunds are only given in person on the day of the trip and are only granted if Adventure West determines that weather is not favorable or safe to float in or the amount of water flow will not permit tubing that day. Your float is dependent on a dam release out of the Chatfield Reservoir and, very occasionally, water levels are too low to tube. You can check the   Plachaco river gauge   for exact river flow rates.
• Cancellation Policy: We require 48 hours notice to cancel your trip. For groups of 6 or more, we require 72 hours notice.
• We will not grant refunds the day of the trip if you miss your scheduled tubing excursion due to traffic or other problems you experience before arrival at our check-in. Plan ahead and leave extra time… you can always walk around the beautiful Breckenridge property or enjoy the river walk before your trip!
• We want you to have the most memorable and enjoyable experience on the river! That being said, we also want you to be SAFE. To do this we ask that you abide by the   South Platte Park “Play it Safe” rules .
• We reserve the right not to shuttle or rent a tube to anyone who is intoxicated.

South Platte River Tubing- How to get here:

Adventure West’s check-in and tube shuttle are located on the Breckenridge Brewery property at 2920 Brewery Lane, Littleton, CO.

Check our booking calendar for up-to-date availability. This is dam-controlled so we are open whenever there is enough water flow!