One of the most thrilling adventures anyone can experience is rafting one of the five rivers within an hour of Breckenridge. The Colorado River in September is especially gorgeous with mountain views in the background. The Colorado River is easily a candidate for Colorado’s most scenic river. Set in the Colorado River Valley, you pass through multiple canyons, might spot a bald eagle or two, and it is just an hour’s drive from Summit County. If you missed out on rafting season completely—don’t worry—there are plenty of Fall adventures to look forward to!
Pros and Cons of Rafting in September
Pros:
● Fall in Colorado is stunning. Due to elevation, the mountains are one of the first
places to change color. There’s nothing quite like it and it’s only available after Labor
Day.
● Lower water makes for a unique adventure! Learn how to navigate tricky rapids with
lots of exciting bumps and turns.
● The crowds are gone, making your trip down the river more intimate with nature.
Cons:
● Colorado rivers are powered by the snowmelt, so some rivers do not maintain
sufficient water levels to continue running into the fall, depending on how much snow
fell the prior season.
● While low water levels can create an exciting adventure, too low of water levels could
potentially create some real pain-in-the-butt rapids.
Scenic Float on the Colorado River near Kremmling
Imagine your perfect fall day in the Rocky Mountains. The weather is in the mid 60’s, the air is crisp, the leaves on the trees are changing to shimmering reds and yellows and you are rafting down a river. The water is starting to get low, but you still experience exciting rapids and scenic views where the water is calm. You’ll get to bask in the glow of the early fall sun and have a high chance of seeing animals trying to pack on the extra pounds before migrating south for the winter. Best yet, there are fewer people on the river since it’s so close to the season end. Your guide will be dedicated, skilled and take advantage of the last few weeks of rapids.
Trip Length: 1/2 Day (2 hours on the water) or Full Day (4 – 5 hours on the water)
Whitewater Class: Class II Scenic Float Trip
Ages: 2 & Up (Weight minimum 30 pounds)
CLICK HERE
After your time on the water, you can enjoy a plethora of activities near the Breckenridge area. Choose between fall festivals, unique breweries, easy hikes, ghost hunting and hot air balloon tours to make the most of your time in Colorado.
Inflatable Kayaks or Stand Up Paddle Boards
Still chasing the adrenaline rush of more advanced whitewater? You won’t find much in the state of Colorado during the fall, but you’ve got some other options on the Colorado River. Venturing out on an Inflatable Kayak or Stand Up Paddle Board takes the Class II rapids to the next level, and you’ll enjoy exploring corners of the river not accessible by raft.
Trip Length: 1/2 Day (2 hours on the water)
Whitewater Class: Class II Scenic Float Trip
Ages: 10 & Up for Inflatable Kayaks, or 13 & Up for Stand Up Paddle Boards
BOOK YOUR INFLATABLE KAYAK
BOOK YOUR STAND UP PADDLEBOARD
Best Fall Land-Based Activities Near Breckenridge, Colorado
Want an off-river adventure? Rent a UTV and see the incredible Colorado River Valley while you romp around in a 4-passenger off-road vehicle. Kremmling also offers a variety of hiking and biking trails not yet discovered by many. The valley is secluded and perfect for a backcountry getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. Heading an hour east of Breckenridge towards the Denver area will have you in the historic town of Idaho Springs, Colorado, which is also home to some great aerial adventures. Catch the fall foliage from different heights as you fly through the treetops in Colorado’s foothills.
September is a prime time to adventure, whether you’re on the river or cruising the mountains. Watch the Aspens turn while the mountain peaks get their first dusting of snow and join Breckenridge Whitewater Rafting on a fall excursion this year.
