Many of you out there are still looking for some rafting in the Rocky Mountains come August. The good news: it’s still happening. The not-so-good news (depending on how you look at it): it’s past peak water season. Water levels decrease after high water in early June, so you aren’t going to find those heart pumping intense Class V rapids that will have you flying along the whitewater. However, this doesn’t mean that there aren’t rivers to raft post-peak season. Here are a few options for a whitewater experience later in the year that anyone can enjoy.
Upper Colorado River
Scenic Float
One of the most dependable rivers in post peak season, as far as water flow, is the Upper Colorado River. Near the town of Kremmling, Colorado, rafting companies can maintain their trips all the way through September to create family-fun later in the year. The drive from Breckenridge is approximately one hour and this section of water features Class II and a couple of Class III rapids.
Duckies and SUPs
If this isn’t big enough in a large raft, try using an inflatable kayak to hit the rapids solo. If you’re very adventurous, you can even rent stand-up paddle boards and conquer the Upper Colorado on your feet. When looking for a great late-season rafting trip, keep in mind the ever-dependable Upper Colorado to satisfy your adrenaline needs.
The Arkansas River
Another river that is controlled to last until mid-August is the Arkansas River. Flowing through Buena Vista, Colorado, the Arkansas offers anything from Class III to Class V rapids. The main water flow of the Arkansas comes from a reservoir upstream and is dam controlled, so levels remain much more constant than surrounding rivers. The great thing about the Arkansas that sets it apart from the Colorado River is it can accommodate multiple skill levels and ages with the diversity in classes of whitewater that it offers.
The Green River
The final recommendation for rafting in the post-peak season is going to be on the Green River through the Canyon of Lodore. This is an extremely beautiful trip with 800 foot canyon walls and awesome whitewater. This part of the Green River also flows through Dinosaur National Monument with some of the most amazing geological wonders in the United States. This trip has so much diversity and will send you through canyons, valleys, and beautiful evergreen forests. For late season, this a great combination of endless beauty and great whitewater. Though Breckenridge Whitewater Rafting doesn’t run trips along the Green River, if you find yourself in northwest Colorado for your late summer adventure you should absolutely check it out.
There’s still plenty of river adventures left for the season. Call Breckenridge Whitewater Rafting today to book your whitewater excursion, or book online and save 15% on your trip with promo code ONLINE10.
