5 Great 2019 Spring Rafting Trips In Colorado

Beginning in early May, the spring rafting season in Colorado offers a number of great rafting trips for adventure-seekers of all skill levels, from beginner rafters looking to experience their first Colorado rafting adventure to seasoned whitewater experts.

Expect a great Whitewater Rafting Season

With heavier-than-expected snowfall in the Rockies so far this winter, the spring 2019 rafting season promises to be one of the best in years, as heavy river flows result from an abundance of snow melting down from Colorado’s beautiful snow-capped peaks. For those planning to raft down one of Colorado’s scenic rivers in the Spring of 2019, the task of choosing a specific trip can be daunting due to the abundance of choices available.

The following list of suggested Spring 2019 Colorado rafting adventures only begins to scratch the surface of what our amazing state has to offer. A phone call to Colorado River Rentals: 970-423-7036 is suggested for anyone wanting more detailed and specific information about these trips or additional choices.

1. Upper Colorado River

Location: Near Kremmling, Colorado

A trip down the Upper Colorado River near Kremmling is an excellent choice for rafters seeking the opportunity to take in some of the most beautiful scenery in the world without braving some of the more difficult and technical rapids one might encounter on some of the other rivers on this list.

For those with very young children or those seeking a more relaxing experience on the water, it’s hard to beat the Upper Colorado in terms of natural beauty. It’s not unusual to spot bald eagles, Canadian geese, and other wildlife along this section of the Colorado River. Those looking for a unique experience can get out of their rafts at the Radium area and take a short hike up a hill to soak in the hot springs.

2. Clear Creek:

Location: Idaho Springs, Colorado

Clear Creek, which passes through the historic gold mining town of Idaho Springs, offers a number of options for people looking for a rafting trip close to Denver. The Gold Rush section of Clear Creek is a great choice for families or those looking for something a bit calmer, while more experienced rafters may opt for a half day trip down the intense whitewater of the Upper Clear Creek.

For those feeling extra adventurous, the Lower Clear Creek section offers some of the most intense and continuous sections of whitewater in all of Colorado.

3. Upper Eagle River:

Location: Vail, Colorado

Experienced rafters seeking a challenging and intense Spring 2019 rafting trip in Colorado will want to consider the Upper Eagle River near Vail. In particular, the intense rapids of the quarter-mile Dowd Chute section offer some of the best early season whitewater in the state of Colorado, and Spring of 2019 is likely to be no exception.

And because the flow of the Eagle River is not controlled by a dam, a snowy winter will ensure a heavy melt and much excitement for all who brave its waters.

4. Blue River:

Location: Silverthorne, Colorado

If a rare trip is what you’re looking for, then a rafting trip down the Blue River may be a good option. Considered a favorite trip among many local rafters, the Blue River is a trip that is typically only available for a short time in early spring. The drop-in for the Blue River is just north of Silverthorne and the rapids are moderate.

The view of the spectacular Gore Range along the Blue River provides some of the most breathtaking scenery of any Colorado rafting trip.

5. Arkansas River

Location: Buena Vista, Colorado

Last on this list, but definitely not least, is the Arkansas River. The Arkansas offers spectacular views and a variety of trips to suit all skill levels. Every class of rapids can be experienced on the Arkansas River. From challenging rapids on the Pine Creek section near Granite, Colorado, to the family-friendly and scenic sections through Browns Canyon near Buena Vista.

The Arkansas River is definitely worth considering for any Spring 2019 rafting adventure in Colorado.

There is plenty of whitewater to raft in Colorado, but these are some of our favorite spots all across the state. Start planning your epic spring rafting trip now because these memories never fade.