Not all Colorado Springs white water rafting trips are just for the summer vacationer. Some rafting companies offer visitors and tourists trips down the Arkansas River through late October. Rapids may peak in the summer months, but crisp autumn air and the changing of the seasons offers fall rafters beautiful scenery, cooler temperatures and a more laid-back atmosphere as the peak season winds down.
August
The Raft Echo rafting company takes rafters on several rapids packages through the end of August. Some premium packages include the wine-n-dinE; paddle, saddle and bridge; raft-n-rail; and adrenaline rafts. Rafters can choose to battle the Bighorn Canyon or the Royal Gorge rapids for a full or half day ride. Raft Echo also takes families, groups and multi-day trips down the Arkansas River for rafters of all skill levels.
September
Raft Masters offers rafters the chance to experience more than rapids in some of their packages that last through September. Colorado Springs visitors can choose from the paddle and saddle, ATV ride and raft, best of the west, and the dip and zip line packages. Raft Masters also offers multi-day trips, family trips and leisurely trips down the Arkansas river for rafters of every skill level.
October
Lost Paddle Rafting books white water rafting trips through October. Rafting trips include half, full and multi-day options down the Arkansas River to Browns and Bighorn canyons, Royal Gorge and the Numbers. Guided tours include safety equipment, wet suits, transportation, lunch for full and multi-day trips, and all river equipment. Rafters can choose to paddle with everyone, have the guide do all the work or take the "extreme" trip for experienced rafters.
Things to Remember
On white water rafting trips, regardless of skill level or location, remember that water gets in the boat. Water gets on you. Water gets everywhere. Bring water-proof items if you do not want them to get wet. Use water-proof or sport approved sunscreen, bug repellent, watches and camera equipment. Wear clothes and shoes that are water worthy. Cotton and denim do not dry quickly and are not recommended for rafting.
Water Classes
Each river section for white water rafting is ranked as a class for rapid difficulty. Class I rapids are easy and slow moving. Class II rapids are medium difficulty and do not require any experience. Class III rapids are moderate rapids with waves, rocks and irregular waters, which require a little experience in maneuvering in the water. Class IV rapids are difficult and usually require a guide or previous experience. Class V rapids are very difficult with sometimes violent waters. Guides and previous experience are highly recommended. Class VI rapids are not recommended. Waters are too unruly with waterfalls and other rafter traps.
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