What are the Best Months to Go White Water Rafting in Colorado?
The white water rafting season in Colorado typically starts from April to September. But you must set your schedule depending on your needs. Likewise, you must consider several factors when booking your next Colorado river rafting adventure.
Your experience in white water rafting Colorado will change according to the volume of water in the river. Typically classified as low, medium, and high, water volume is measured in cubic feet per second or CFS. The gust in the river will range between 300 and 4,000 CFS throughout the year.
During the summer season, the rapids will change depending on the volume of snow that melts in the high country. Nevertheless, you can expect an intense experience in June when the runoff peaks.
White Water Tourism in Colorado
White water rafting is one of the significant drivers of tourism in Colorado. You may want to go white water rafting in Denver, or even in Cañon City, which is two hours from Denver. Both continue to enjoy a high number of bookings throughout the season. It is not surprising, considering that Cañon City is one of the top spots for white water rafting.
However, in 2018, the Colorado River Outfitters Association reported a decline in river use. Last year, the number of commercial uses declined by 9.6%, although the economic impact still reached $176.6 million.
According to the association, climate change had a massive impact on the industry. The prolonged drought resulted in low flows, which affected the business of commercial service providers.
Scheduling Your White Water Rafting Trip
From April to early June
If you want to take your kids to white water rafting in Colorado, you can bring them between April and early June. It is in these months when the water volume in the Arkansas River is low.
Another benefit of bringing your kids up there at these times is the river is generally warmer. Your kids would love playing and splashing in the warmer water.
From late June to August
In late June, the water level shifts from low to medium. Even if the rapids are getting stronger, you can still bring kids. River Outfitters has several packages for families and thrill-seekers, and they know the area very well. When the water changes from low to medium, you can access more destinations, such as Pine Creek & Numbers, for instance.
The downside is that the period is considered peak season for white water rafting in Colorado. It means you may deal with a lot of tourists, which can be a turn-off for some people.
Also, you need to make sure you book early, not only with the river outfitters but also with your accommodations, as well.
July Rafting Season
Thrill-seekers who want an adrenaline rush can book their trip this month. You can expect swift rapids and vast waves when you go white-water rafting at this time. Most river outfitters do not allow small kids to test out the high water. Check with your service provider for any age restrictions.
But there are spots in the Upper Colorado River where the water is tame enough to allow young kids to go water rafting. Look for a river outfitter who knows the area quite well.
Generally, the rafting season in Colorado ends during the Labor Day weekend. With that said, white water rafting is a year-round activity. Even in periods of drought, the industry has installed defibrillators to sustain the industry with artificial flows. Just make sure to check the weather so you can dress appropriately.
