There are numerous organizations that specialize in the area of whitewater rafting. Among them is the Rafting Colorado Network (RCN). According to the RCN, Colorado is considered to be "home of some of the country's best whitewater river rafting." The wide range of rafting companies all vary in prices, amenities and accommodations.
Facts
Whitewater rafting is an outdoor recreational activity that offers a fun challenge. Passengers sit in an inflatable raft and navigate a river or other body of water. The water has varying degrees of roughness, adding to the excitement. The federal government provides a guide to the different levels of a river's intensity. It is called the International Scale of River Difficulty, a standardized scale that is used to rate how safe a stretch of river or a single rapid is.
Geography
In addition to Colorado's scenic snow-capped mountains, the numerous rivers provide an ideal location for whitewater river rafting. Many of the mighty rivers wind downward into the lush valleys below. Rivers like the Colorado, the Arkansas, the North Platte and the Dolores all provide various degrees of intensity. These are among the eight river trips that Arkansas Valley Adventures offers to passengers. Colorado is believed to have some of the most intense whitewater action in the whole United States.
Time Frame
Most rafting companies offer whitewater rafting trips from April through October. During this period, the intensity of the rivers changes from wild to mild. Typically, rafting companies such as Mild to Wild Rafting will schedule high-adventure trips between April and August. During this time, the rapids are a bit rougher and the trips usually venture to wilderness areas that are more remote. These trips appeal to experienced rafters and may have age limitations. For example, one of Echo Canyon's Colorado rafting trips has a recommended minimum age of 6 and a weight minimum of 50 pounds.
Types
Although half-day trips are not uncommon, generally Colorado whitewater rafting trips last from one to three days. Prices vary according to factors like the trip type and duration. Echo Canyon's minimum child rates start at $39 and adult rates at $49 as of 2010. Whitewater passengers can choose between a river trip with continuous rapids or one with distinct rapids and defined drops. The latter is the more common, because it allows an adrenaline rush and provides a periodic break in the excitement.
Features
Experience level and the ages of the passengers are important considerations and determine the need for a river guide. Features of the milder Colorado trips include professional tour guides, family and group rates and free wetsuits and splash jackets. Free rafting guides are also standard giveaways. Adventure enthusiasts can book rafting trips for as long as 10 days.
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