Colorado River adventure companies offer a wide range of thrilling experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. These companies provide various rafting packages, from half-day trips to multi-day adventures, catering to different skill levels and age groups. With options for scenic floats, whitewater rapids, and combination packages that include activities like hiking and ziplining, these companies ensure unforgettable experiences along the Colorado River and its tributaries.
What Are the Top Colorado River Adventure Companies?
Three of the most prominent Colorado River adventure companies are:
- Colorado Rafting Company
- Raft Masters
- Echo Canyon River Expeditions
Each of these companies offers unique packages and experiences tailored to different preferences and skill levels.
What Packages Do These Companies Offer?
Colorado Rafting Company
Colorado Rafting Company provides a diverse range of packages:
- Half-day trips (3-4 hours)
- Full-day trips (6-8 hours)
- Overnight trips (2 days)
- ACE Packages: Combining rafting with mountain biking, rock climbing, or hiking
- Standard ACE package: 2-day adventure
- Rapid ACE: 1-day package
They operate on the Upper Colorado River, Clear Creek, and Blue River, offering experiences suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Raft Masters
Raft Masters focuses on trips along the Arkansas River and Clear Creek River:
- Half-day trips (2-3.5 hours)
- Full-day trips (7.5 hours)
- Multi-day trips (up to 9 hours per day)
Their packages cater to various age groups and skill levels, from beginners to advanced rafters.
Echo Canyon River Expeditions
Echo Canyon River Expeditions offers a range of experiences on the Arkansas River:
- Half-day trips (approximately 3 hours)
- Full-day trips (including activities like ziplining and train rides)
- Multi-day trips (24-hour adventures with camping and multiple activities)
They specialize in trips through Bighorn Sheep Canyon and Royal Gorge, suitable for families and groups of all ages.
What Amenities and Facilities Are Offered by These Companies?
| Company | Equipment Provided | Safety Measures | Parking | Restrooms |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado Rafting Company | Inflatable kayaks, paddleboards, life jackets, helmets | Precise safety controls, guided trips | Available at 3 boathouse locations | At launch sites |
| Raft Masters | Life jackets, helmets, rafting gear | Experienced guides, safety protocols | Available at launch sites | At launch sites |
| Echo Canyon River Expeditions | Rafting gear, life jackets, helmets, ziplining equipment | Experienced guides, comprehensive safety protocols | Available at base near Cañon City | At launch sites and camping areas |
What Types of Guided Colorado River Tours Are Available?
Scenic and Adventure Tours
- Colorado Rafting Company:
- Scenic floats on the Upper Colorado River
- Action-packed rafting on Clear Creek and Blue River
-
ACE Packages combining rafting with other outdoor activities
-
Raft Masters:
- Trips on the Arkansas River and Clear Creek River
- Various difficulty levels
-
Scenic views and potential wildlife sightings
-
Echo Canyon River Expeditions:
- Bighorn Sheep Canyon and Royal Gorge trips
- Combination packages with ziplining, train rides, and mountain biking
How Much Do These Adventures Cost?
Costs vary depending on the company, package, and season:
- Colorado Rafting Company: $100 to $300 per person for half-day to full-day trips
- Raft Masters: $75 to $268 per person, depending on trip duration and difficulty
- Echo Canyon River Expeditions: $129 to $214 per person for half-day and full-day trips, with multi-day packages exceeding $500 per person
What Other Outdoor Activities Are Available Along the Colorado River?
Hiking
- Locations: Trails along Upper Colorado River, Clear Creek, and Blue River areas
- Accessibility: Easy to challenging trails, accessible from rafting company locations
- Permits: Generally not required for day hikes, may be needed for overnight camping
- Costs: Free or low-cost for day hikes, camping fees may apply
Fishing
- Locations: Upper Colorado River, Clear Creek, and Blue River
- Accessibility: Public areas and launch sites of rafting companies
- Permits: Fishing licenses required
- Costs: License fees vary, equipment rental available from local outfitters
Camping
- Locations: Private river-side landings and public campsites near rafting areas
- Accessibility: Accessible from boathouse locations, some may require short hikes
- Permits: May be required for public sites
- Costs: Vary for public and private campsites, package deals available with rafting companies
How Can I Choose the Best Colorado River Adventure Company?
When selecting a Colorado River adventure company, consider the following factors:
- Experience level required for different packages
- Age restrictions and family-friendliness
- Duration of trips and available dates
- Additional activities included in packages
- Safety measures and guide experience
- Cost and value for money
- Location and accessibility of launch sites
- Reviews and recommendations from previous customers
By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can choose the company that best suits your preferences and requirements for an unforgettable Colorado River adventure.