Best Whitewater Rafting Near Vail Colorado

Looking to go rafting in Vail? Well, the good news is there is a plethora of options. There is anything from mild and scenic to wild and adventurous for your next rafting adventure near Vail, Colorado.

From the Colorado River to the Arkansas, the options are vast, so let’s dive in to what option is going to be best for you.

The Colorado River

Location: State Bridge, Colorado just 45 minutes from Vail, Colorado

The Colorado River is bit more mild and scenic, and great for those looking for a more relaxing and rejuvenating adventure. With more mild rapids this is a family-friendly environment. Even though the whitewater isn’t extreme, the scenic views and abundant wildlife create a unique and unforgettable experience.

The Blue River

Location: Silverthorne, Colorado just 35 minutes from Vail, Colorado.

The Blue River offers an unforgettable experience. Located centrally in summit county this would be better for those looking for a shorter day trip. With the ten mile range in sight the scenery is absolutely breathtaking. The river also produces whitewater that will keep your heart racing and a grin on your face. The rapids are exciting, but not terribly demanding. The area is also home to bald eagles and some of the best fishing in the state.

The Eagle River

Location: Edwards, Colorado just 20 minutes from Vail, Colorado.

The Eagle River is the best option for trips closest to Vail. Options on this river vary anywhere from a more mild scenic trip to more exerting and exciting trips. Views and wildlife will also be in abundance on this river. Although bear and moose sightings are more rare they are always a possibility, so keep your eyes pealed. A great trip for families and friends alike.

The Arkansas River

Location: Buena Vista, Colorado about 1 hour south of Vail, Colorado.

For more range of difficulty the Arkansas River would be a great option. With rapids anywhere from class 3 to class 5 it really has it all. Browns canyon is a national monument that you can raft through or even camp at, so this should definitely be on the bucket list. Some of the most traveled rafting trips as well as some of the most intense whitewater one could ever want to experience. The Arkansas River has trips for anything from family-friendly to something that speaks more to the adrenaline seekers.

Vail Whitewater Park

Location: Gore Creek in the Vail Village

There is a whitewater park based in Vail. This is a great option for those who want to play in some whitewater or practice on a kayak. There is a park located around the whitewater park, so if one wanted to just go check out someone playing in some man-made whitewater this is the place.

The amount of whitewater around Vail, Colorado is not only considerable, but also varies widely. Anything you chose will not only be beautiful but also a blast. Anything from play boating, to family adventures, to an extreme adrenaline rush, it is all within reason and within reach.