THE VERY WORD ‘WHITEWATER’ is an adrenaline rush for some people,
and total intimidation for others. Thankfully, rivers in Colorado cater to everyone, offering adventures... from mild to wild, from float trips down the Colorado River with ever so small whitecaps, to the rough and ready Arkansas River with excitement galore in Brown’s Canyon. Rafting season coincides with Mother Nature’s calendar. When she melts snow from the high Rocky Mountain peaks in late April and May, the streams and rivers begin to gorge with a run-off that lasts throughout the summer. The rafting season is at its height late May through July, and, during abundant snow years, well into August. Rivers are rated from Class I–V. Families and beginners usually choose Class I, which offers leisurely float trips with spectacular scenic views at every bend of the wide open rivers. Class V gives you an exciting ride for your money. Your guide will thread your raft through narrow canyons for holdtight, mind-clearing plunges for whitewater junkies. Classes II–IV are between. Your level of experience will define your trip. Choosing an established rafting company is important. The Colorado River Outfitters Association can provide you with a list of companies staffed by certified, experienced professionals. Choose from half or full-day (with lunch) trips that generally include bus transportation to the put-in and take-out point on your river journey... and get ready to have fun! Be prepared to get soaking wet! Even if you’re on a gentle float trip, splashing comes with the territory. So, try to wear quick-drying fabrics and also bring a change of clothing for the return bus trip. Your driver will shepherd your belongings. (Many outfitters rent wet suits and wet shoes - a good idea if your trip is in late spring’s icy waters. Because of rafting’s growing popularity, reservations are highly recommended, especially around summer holidays. | 
