Two-thirds of the state of Colorado straddles the rugged Rocky Mountain range, making the state an outdoor enthusiast's paradise year-round. Snow-capped mountain peaks yield their moisture under the sun's warm rays, creating the snow-melt fueling Colorado's whitewater rivers. Explore the otherwise inaccessible terrain of remote canyons and forests from the unique perspective the river offers.
River Characteristics
River trips in Colorado thrill rafters with a wilderness mountain experience. Waters which originate as mountain springs and melting snow trickle into tumbling streams and rivers, creating steep gradients and technical rapids that can continue nonstop for up to two miles at a time. Boulders dot the course, testing upper body strength in precise maneuvers to dodge between them and surrounding hydraulics. Pine forests and historic mining towns can be seen along the way, as well as brilliant flowers and foliage from springtime through autumn.
National Monument Rafting
Dinosaur National Monument's two rivers froth with churning hydraulics below towering cliffs and ancient petroglyphs. Major John Wesley Powell's first exploration of the Green River through Lodore Canyon gave many of the rapids their present-day names, such as Hell's Half Mile and Disaster Falls. The Yampa is slightly milder in temperament, offering technical Class Three rapids. One notable exception is the Class Four rapid, Warm Springs, which contains the raft-flipping Maytag hydraulic. Permits are required on both rivers and are limited to rafts with a at least four air chambers and rafters with experience on Class Three and Four rivers. If you or your equipment don't meet these specifications, more than a dozen commercial companies offer guided trips ranging from one to three days in length.
Mountain Rivers
The mountainous terrain of Colorado serves up 20 major rivers boasting whitewater action from mild, novice-friendly waters to adrenaline-pumping hydraulics. The Colorado River flows from central Colorado to the state line, offering rafters stretches of Class Four hydraulics interspersed with miles of swift but smooth water flowing over milder rapids that are suitable for beginners to develop skill behind the oars. While boulder gardens do not make any Colorado river easy, less experienced rafters will thrive in the southwestern portion of the state on the Gunnison River, Lake Fork and Rio Grande. Expert rafters seeking an extra dose of adrenaline will enjoy the Animas River, which churns with nonstop Class Four and Five rapids as it parallels the route of the Durango-Silverton Scenic Railway.
Overnight Trips
Dispersed camping is permitted in waters running through Colorado's national and state forest lands using leave-no-trace techniques. Dinosaur National Monument requires back country camping permits in addition to boat permits for those spending more than a day on the park's rivers. Permits and fees in other state parks vary by location and are subject to change. Commercial campgrounds are available on most rivers flowing through private waters, although not all are practical for raft access due to steep banks or location along rapids.
Hazards
High altitude reduces oxygen levels in the body, which can cause you to become fatigued or ill. Staying hydrated with water and electrolyte replacement formulas is the best line of defense while acclimating. Nighttime temperatures dip into the 40s even during summer, requiring warm sleeping bags and clothing. Taking an unexpected swim in the rivers' cold waters create a quick risk of hypothermia, especially where continuous rapids leave scant opportunity to recover. Wetsuits, in addition to neoprene footwear and life vests, can hold in body heat and provide protection from sharp rocks.
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