Rafting Near Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs White Water Rafting

There’s nothing quite as breathtaking as the mountains of Northern Colorado.

Whether you’re spending time on hiking trails or white water rafting in Idaho Springs, there’s something about this region of Colorado that speaks to your soul. Idaho Springs rafting trips take you through the same canyon corridor I-70 travels through, so while the trip won’t take you through a mountainous wilderness, the proximity to Denver and ease of access can’t be beat. Idaho Springs also features unique shops and eateries and is surrounded by scenic drives, abandoned mines, and acre upon acre of wide-open space.

Why Go Rafting in Idaho Springs?

If you’re looking for an exciting trip, then it’s hard to beat rafting in Idaho Springs. The small town is a quick 30-minute drive from Denver and only an hour from Boulder, with trips for everyone from beginner to advanced. The best time to raft this free-flowing creek is during the month of June when the mountains are shedding their winter snows. Those visiting during the months of July or August may want to make the drive to the Royal Gorge or Bighorn Sheep Canyon where consistent flows extend the rafting season into September.

Upper Clear Creek, or the Intermediate half-day trip, offers a short, adrenaline-inducing ride near Denver. The Gold Rush section is a beginner run featuring eleven Class III raids packed into a one third day trip. Trips surge through valleys, passing by abandoned mines and incredible scenery. Rafters often see deer, muskrat, and perhaps even bighorn sheep during their adventures!

Upper Clear Creek vs Lower Clear Creek

For families and beginning rafters, we offer experienced rafting guides who can help you start slow and proceed at your comfort level. Rafting trips for beginners last a couple hours and proceed at an easy pace through Class I through Class III rapids. Expect small waves and moderately challenging rapids.

Intermediate half-day trips are perfect for those with more experience, or for beginners with a thirst for adventure. Trips run through rapids like Nomad and Outer Limits, guaranteed to get your heart pumping. Waves are irregular, with strong currents and powerful eddies.

Advanced trips are for experienced rafters only and plunge immediately into rapidly flowing Class IV and V whitewater. Navigate through tight passages with drops and steep chutes. Expect to get soaked and come out smiling!

Idaho Springs White Water Rafting Trips

Clear Creek Beginner 1/3 Day Raft Trip

Featuring beginner level rafting is Clear Creek’s Gold Rush section. This trip is located in Idaho Springs, CO, and is available as a one-third day trip. Clicking ‘BOOK NOW’ will direct you to Arkansas Valley Adventure’s booking site.
Trip Price: $64 – $79 per adult  |  $59 – $74 per child

Clear Creek Intermediate 1/2 Day Raft Trip

Take on class III to IV rapids in Clear Creek Canyon, located in Idaho Springs, CO. The Clear Creek Intermediate trip is available as a half-day or full-day raft trip. Clicking ‘BOOK NOW’ will direct you to Arkansas Valley Adventure’s booking site.
Half-Day Trip Price: $69 – $89 per adult

Browns Canyon Rafting Trip

Raft along the Browns Canyon National Monument, and take in invigorating rapids at the same time. Located near Buena Vista, CO, two hours from Idaho Springs, the trip is available as a half-day or full-day trip.
Half-Day Trip Price: $94

Royal Gorge Rafting Trip

Adventure-seekers will revel in the class III to V rapids deep in the heart of the Royal Gorge. Definitely worth the drive if you plan on spending time in the Colorado Springs area. Available as a half-day or full-day rafting trip.
Half-Day Trip Price: $129 per person

Other Outdoor Opportunities

Colorado is known almost as much for its wild history as it is for its scenic beauty. Some of the state’s best gold mine tours are featured right outside of the town, and you can immerse yourself in the state’s history while making new memories. Here are some places you can visit after your Idaho Springs rafting trip:

More Information

There are plenty of places to stay in the city and after you’re all settled in, you can enjoy some of the best restaurants in town. Afterwards, consider a stroll down historic Miner Street – where you can take a step back in time to the days of old. Many of the historic buildings date back to well over 100 years, preserving the rich mining history of Idaho Springs.

Lodging:

  • Indian Hot Springs
  • Argo Inn and Suites
  • Columbine Inn
  • Blair Motel

After a thrilling day of white water rafting in Idaho Springs, it’s time to relax and refuel. Here are some of our favorite local eateries and waterholes:

  • Smoking Yard’s BBQ
  • Main Street Restaurant
  • MTN Prime
  • The Vintage Moose
  • Beau Jo’s

Plan Your Idaho Springs Rafting Adventure

Most Idaho Springs white water rafting excursions are available from the middle of May through the end of July or early August, depending on the snow reserves in the Colorado high country. An Idaho Springs rafting trip is one of the best ways to experience the wildness, history and sense of adventure that Colorado has to offer.

If you’re looking for an exciting outdoor adventure, we can help you plan your Idaho Springs rafting trip. Book online or call us today 800-755-3246 to start planning your family getaway.