Group Planning Guide

A step-by-step guide to help you get out on the river

Rafting in Colorado

Planning a trip with friends, a family reunion, or maybe a bachelor party and looking for something exciting for the whole gang? Rafting makes for a great summer activity for all ages. With tons of trips ranging in difficulty and locations across Colorado, there is an adventure for everyone. However, it can often prove difficult when trying to organize such an adventure with large groups. Below you will find your step by step group planning guide!

  • Step 1: Pick a day. Give your party a series of three dates to choose from.

    The day the majority of you can go that is the day you should plan for. Keep in mind travel time, car-pooling and accommodations for pets.

  • Step 2: Figure out how long you want to be on the river and where you want to raft.

    Half day, full day, or maybe an overnight, the Colorado River has perfect stopping points to accommodate all lengths of trips. See our River Information page to see the layout of the Colorado River. And if you plan on renting gear and rafting on another river in Colorado, there are many options as well! You can raft the Arkansas River in Buena Vista, The Blue out of Silverthorne, The Eagle in Vail or even Clear Creek in Idaho Springs.

  • Step 3: Think about the necessary gear you will need.

    Good questions to ask yourself are: What size raft will you need to accommodate everyone? Will you need the rafted inflated or deflated? What about extra paddles or lifejackets? Will some people want to SUP or use a duckie instead? Check our our page on Necessary Gear for other possibilities.

  • Step 4: Make your reservation!

    River gear is a hot commodity, especially in the summer, book sooner rather than later and reserve your gear from Colorado River Rentals!

  • Step 5: Plan transportation.

    As you are on your own when you rent gear from us, make sure you have a way to transport gear and yourselves from the put-in to the take-out.

  • Step 6: Have a great time on the river!

    Have fun with your friends or family and enjoy the Colorado sunshine and rapids. We can’t wait to see you on the river!