CategoriesTour Prep, White Water Rafting by

How to Prepare for White Water Rafting in Colorado

White water rafting in Colorado is one of the most thrilling ways to experience the state’s stunning rivers and rugged landscapes. Whether you’re navigating intense rapids or enjoying a scenic float, a day on the river promises excitement and unforgettable memories.

However, the success of your trip depends on proper preparation. From cold water conditions early in the season to strong sun exposure later in the summer, knowing what to bring and how to dress can make all the difference. Here’s everything you need to know to have an epic, safe, and comfortable white water rafting adventure in Colorado.

1. Check Conditions and Book with an Outfitter

Before heading to the river, check with a local rafting outfitter to understand the current conditions. Find reputable, licensed outfitters HERE.

High Water Levels in Early Season (May–June)

  • In spring and early summer, melting snow from the Rocky Mountains causes higher water levels, making rapids faster and more intense.
  • Water temperatures can be frigid, often just above freezing. Proper gear is essential to stay warm.
  • Some sections of the river may be closed due to safety concerns—always check with your outfitter beforehand.
  • Check out the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area Water Conditions HERE.

Lower Water Levels & Strong Sun Later in the Season (July–September)

  • By mid-to-late summer, water levels drop, making rapids slower and rocky rather than fast and pushy.
  • While the air temperature may feel mild, the high-altitude sun is intense, so sun protection is critical.

👉 Book with a professional outfitter to ensure you get the right gear, guidance, and an experience that matches your skill level. If you’re rafting in Colorado Springs or the surrounding areas, check out Broadmoor Outfitters for expert-led rafting adventures on the Arkansas River in Bighorn Sheep Canyon.

2. What to Wear: Dressing for Comfort & Safety

Dressing appropriately can make or break your rafting experience—especially when dealing with cold water. Check out our blog post for a deeper dive into what to wear.

Early Season (Cold Water & High Flows)

❄️ Key Focus: Staying Warm

  • Wetsuit or Drysuit – Check with your outfitter to see if they provide wetsuits, splash jackets, or drysuits. These help insulate your body from freezing water.
  • Neoprene Booties or Water Shoes – Cold water can numb your feet quickly, so closed-toe water shoes or booties are best. Don’t forget about wool socks to add warmth even when wet.
  • Synthetic Base Layers – Avoid cotton! Instead, wear quick-drying materials like wool, polyester, or fleece under your wetsuit for added warmth.
  • A Warm Hat (Optional) – A wool or synthetic beanie helps retain body heat, especially on cloudy or windy days.
  • Gloves (Optional) – Neoprene gloves can help keep your hands warm in freezing water.

Mid-to-Late Season (Lower Water & Strong Sun)

☀️ Key Focus: Sun Protection

  • Quick-Dry, UPF-Rated Shirt – A long-sleeve rash guard or lightweight synthetic shirt protects against sunburn and rubbing from your PFD.
  • Board Shorts or Leggings – Quick-dry shorts or lightweight leggings offer comfort while paddling.
  • Water Shoes or Sandals – Closed-toe water shoes provide better protection, but some rafters prefer sturdy sandals with straps.
  • Wide-Brimmed Hat or Baseball Cap – Helps shade your face from intense sun exposure. Wear one under your helmet if allowed.
  • Sunglasses with a Strap – Polarized sunglasses reduce glare from the water. Use a retainer strap so you don’t lose them in the rapids.

Gear Provided by Most Outfitters

Many rafting companies provide:
🪖 Helmet – Required for safety.
🛟 Personal Flotation Device (PFD) – A life jacket that must be worn at all times.
✔️ Paddle – Your essential tool for navigating the river.
🏄 Wetsuit or Splash Jacket – Available depending on the season and outfitter.

👉 Check with your outfitter in advance to see what gear is included and whether you should bring extra layers.

3. What to Bring on Your Rafting Trip

Since space is limited on a raft, you’ll want to pack light. Here are must-have items to bring:

👕 Towel & Dry Clothes – Keep them in your car for after your trip. You’ll be wet, even on warm days!
☀️ Sunscreen (Waterproof, SPF 30+) – Apply before launching and reapply after breaks.
💄 Lip Balm with SPF – The high-altitude sun can dry out your lips quickly.
📷 Waterproof Camera or GoPro – Secure it with a strap if you want action shots!
✅ Small Dry Bag (if allowed) – For essentials like a phone, keys, or snacks. Some outfitters provide storage options.
🥤 Water Bottle – Hydration is key, but check if your outfitter allows bottles on the raft.

🚫 Leave These Behind:
❌ Cotton Clothing – It stays wet and makes you colder.
🗙 Flip-Flops, crocs, or Barefoot Shoes – You need secure footwear.
❌ Jewelry or Watches – They can get lost in the rapids.
🗙 Unsecured Phones or Cameras – Unless they’re waterproof and attached to you, leave them in your car.

4. Safety Tips for a Successful Rafting Adventure

White water rafting is an adrenaline-pumping sport, but safety always comes first. Follow these essential guidelines:

👂 Listen to Your Guide – Pay attention to the safety briefing and follow their instructions at all times.
🛶 Know the Commands – Learn key paddling commands like “forward paddle,” “back paddle,” and “high side” to keep control in rapids.
🚣‍♀️ Stay in the Boat – But if you fall out, don’t panic! Float on your back, feet downstream, and wait for rescue instructions.
🛶 Hold Your Paddle Correctly – Keep a firm grip and never let go in rough waters.
🏞️ Respect the River – Water levels and conditions can change quickly. If your guide cancels or adjusts the trip due to safety concerns, trust their expertise.

5. The Best Rivers for White Water Rafting in Colorado

Colorado is home to some of the best rafting rivers in the country, offering a variety of trips for all skill levels.

🌊 Arkansas River – The most popular rafting river in Colorado, featuring class II-V rapids in Bighorn Sheep Canyon, Browns Canyon, and the Royal Gorge.
🌊 Clear Creek – Near Denver, this river has exciting class III-IV rapids great for thrill-seekers. Find info HERE.
🌊 Colorado River – Offers scenic, family-friendly rafting near Glenwood Springs and Grand Junction. Find info HERE.
🌊 Animas River – Located in Durango, this river features a mix of mild and wild sections. Find info HERE.

👉 Looking for an unforgettable rafting adventure near Colorado Springs? Check out Broadmoor Outfitters for professionally guided trips on the Arkansas River! You can also visit the Colorado Tourism Site for additional activities and Outfitters.

Final Thoughts: Get Ready for an Epic Rafting Adventure

White water rafting in Colorado is an adventure like no other, but preparation is key. Dress appropriately for cold early-season waters or intense sun later in the summer, and always check with your outfitter for gear recommendations.

With the right planning, you’ll be ready to paddle hard, get soaked, and have the time of your life on the river! So, grab your gear, book your trip, and get ready for an unforgettable Colorado rafting experience.

CategoriesWhite Water Rafting by

White Water Rafting: What First-Timers Need to Know

If you’ve ever watched a raft slicing through roaring rapids and wondered, “Could I do that?”, the answer is YES! White water rafting is an exhilarating, fun-filled adventure that’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned thrill-seekers. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly float or a heart-pounding ride through intense rapids, rafting offers an unforgettable experience on the water.

If you’re a first-time rafter, you might be wondering:

  • Is white water rafting safe?
  • What should I wear and bring?
  • How difficult is it?
  • What does the experience feel like?

Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Here’s everything you need to know before your first white water rafting trip, including what to expect, how to prepare, and why you’ll love every minute of it!

What to Expect on Your First White Water Rafting Trip

Rafting is an incredible mix of adventure, teamwork, and natural beauty. You’ll paddle through waves and rapids, enjoy breathtaking canyon views, and work together with your guide and fellow rafters to navigate the river.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what your first rafting experience will look like:

1. Arrival & Check-In

Once you arrive at your rafting outfitter, you’ll:
✅ Check in and meet your guides.
✅ Get a safety briefing and an overview of the trip.
✅ Get fitted with your helmet, life jacket, paddle, booties, and wetsuit.

2. The Shuttle Ride & River Launch

Many rafting trips start with a shuttle ride to the river launch point. This is a great time to ask your guide questions and take in the scenery. Once you arrive at the river, your guide will go over:
✅ How to paddle and work as a team.
✅ How to sit in the raft for stability and balance.
✅ What to do if you fall in (which is rare but part of the adventure!).

3. Paddling Through the Rapids

Once you hit the water, the real fun begins! Depending on the difficulty level of your trip, you might experience:
✔ Gentle, scenic floats with small ripples and waves.
✔ Moderate Class II-III rapids, which offer fun splashes and excitement.
✔ High-adrenaline Class IV-V rapids, where you’ll navigate intense waves and drops.

4. Scenic Breaks & Wildlife Watching

Between rapids, you’ll have time to relax, take in the scenery, and spot wildlife like eagles, bighorn sheep, and deer. Some rafting trips even include stops at beautiful sandy beaches or swimming spots.

5. The Takeout & Return Shuttle

At the end of your trip, you’ll paddle to the takeout point, help carry the raft back, and then hop on the shuttle to return to the base. Don’t forget to snap some group photos and celebrate your adventure!

How to Choose the Right White Water Rafting Trip

Not all rafting trips are the same! The intensity of your experience depends on the river’s rapids, which are classified from Class I (easy) to Class V (extreme).

Best Rafting Options Near Colorado Springs

Wolfpack Rafting and Broadmoor Outfitters is the ONLY rafting company who leaves from Colorado Springs! All other Arkansas River Outfitters will leave from Canon City.

Bighorn Sheep Canyon (Beginner-Friendly – Class II-III)
✔ Perfect for first-timers, families, and kids (ages 6+)
✔ Exciting but manageable rapids mixed with scenic floats
✔ Great chance to spot wildlife along the canyon walls

Royal Gorge (Advanced – Class III-V)
✔ High-adrenaline rapids for thrill-seekers
✔ Epic views as you paddle under the famous Royal Gorge Bridge
✔ Requires previous rafting experience or a strong sense of adventure

👉 Book Your Bighorn Sheep Canyon White Water Rafting Trip Here!
👉 Book Your Royal Gorge White Water Rafting Trip Here!

What to Wear & Bring for White Water Rafting

Dressing properly ensures comfort and safety on the river. Here’s what you should wear and bring:

What to Wear:

✔ Quick-dry clothing (Avoid cotton—it stays wet and cold!)
✔ Swimsuit or moisture-wicking shorts and t-shirt
✔ Secure water shoes or sandals with straps (No flip-flops!)
✔ Wetsuit (if needed) – Provided by most outfitters in months

What to Bring:

✔ Sunscreen (Water-resistant, SPF 50+)
✔ Sunglasses with a retainer strap
✔ Towel & dry clothes (for after your trip)
✔ Waterproof phone case or GoPro (if allowed)

🚫 What NOT to Bring:
❌ Loose jewelry
❌ Anything you wouldn’t want to lose in the water
❌ Phones (unless in a waterproof case)

Is White Water Rafting Safe for First-Timers?

Yes! Rafting is very safe when you go with a professional guide and outfitter. Here’s why:

✅ Expert Guides – Every trip includes a trained guide who will teach you how to paddle, steer, and stay safe.
✅ Safety Gear – Life jackets and helmets are provided.
✅ Beginner-Friendly Routes Available – You don’t have to tackle extreme rapids on your first trip!

As long as you listen to your guide and follow instructions, white water rafting is an exciting but safe adventure.

Why You Should Try White Water Rafting

Still on the fence? Here’s why rafting is an experience you don’t want to miss:

✔ It’s an adrenaline rush! – There’s nothing like the thrill of paddling through white water and feeling the power of the river.
✔ You’ll connect with nature. – Colorado’s rivers flow through breathtaking canyons and forests, making it one of the most scenic adventures you can have.
✔ It’s a great group activity. – Whether with friends, family, or coworkers, rafting is all about teamwork and shared excitement.
✔ It’s a unique way to explore Colorado. – While hiking and biking are great, rafting gives you a whole new perspective on the landscape.

Book Your White Water Rafting Adventure!

Whether you’re looking for a first-time, beginner-friendly float or a heart-racing ride on the Arkansas River, Broadmoor Outfitters offers the best guided rafting trips leaving from Colorado Springs.

👉 Reserve Your White Water Rafting Trip Today!