Why Colorado Summers are Actually Better than Winters
April 7th, 2016
A Colorado summer is a celebration of the great outdoors. Whether you are looking for a physically challenging activity like hiking, whitewater rafting, or a more laid back activity like horseback riding, soaking in a hot springs, or riding a historic railroad, we have an activity for you. The options are endless.Don’t get me wrong – winter in Colorado is magical. Mountain towns transform overnight into winter wonderlands. Snow enthusiasts anxiously await the mountain’s opening day and there is an excitement in the air. While outdoor aficionados love a great winter, we love summers in Colorado equally, if not more. A good snow pack equates to months of steady snow melt and great conditions for whitewater rafting. AVA runs trips on the Colorado, Clear Creek, and Arkansas River – arguably some of the best whitewater rafting in the state. Our three outposts – Kremmling, Idaho Springs, and Granite – offer more than just whitewater rafting. We rent stand up paddle boards and kayaks out of our Kremmling Outpost, located approximately one hour from Summit County and an hour and a half to two hours from Denver, depending on traffic and construction.
Our Idaho Springs and Granite outposts offer everything from half day class three beginner whitewater trips to full day advanced class 5 trips. Our zipline tour is also extremely popular. Many people will book a half day rafting trip and a half-day zipline aerial adventure to maximize their adventure. Clear Creek (Idaho Springs outpost) is extremely convenient if you will be staying in Denver, a short 30 minute drive into the scenic canyon. If you find that you have some flexibility and will be able to find lodging accommodations in Summit County, we strongly recommend a trip in Granite, some of the best whitewater rafting in Colorado! If you find yourself leaning towards a more laid back activity check out some of Colorado’s hidden gems, Strawberry Hot Springs and Mount Princeton Hot Springs. AVA also offers a sunrise hot air balloon tour – one of my personal favorites!
Staying in Denver and don’t have the flexibility to devote an entire day to one of these activities? Check out the famous Georgetown Train Ride – a quick tour through the foothills with opportunities to stop and check out the old abandoned mines!