Mild Scenic Family Float on Arkansas River

Imagine drifting lazily down a river with your loved ones, surrounded by the towering Rocky Mountains and gentle rapids. That’s the essence of the Mild Scenic Family Float on the Arkansas River—an experience tailored for families wanting a taste of Colorado’s natural beauty without the adrenaline rush. While it’s not a white-knuckle adventure, it offers enough fun and scenic charm to make for an unforgettable outing.

What we love about this tour is how it combines professional guidance with breathtaking vistas, making it perfect even for those new to rafting or traveling with young children. The inclusive gear and safety briefing mean you’re well-prepared, which adds peace of mind. One thing to consider is that the tour’s moderate duration—around 1.5 to 2.5 hours—may not satisfy thrill-seekers, but it hits the sweet spot for families seeking a relaxed adventure.

This experience is ideal if you’re traveling with kids, seniors, or anyone who appreciates calm waters and stunning mountain scenery. It’s also great for those who want a safe, guided introduction to rafting, combined with the chance to take lovely photos and enjoy the outdoors.

Key Points

• Suitable for all ages, including inexperienced and novice rafters
• Guided by professional guides with extensive safety briefings
• Includes all necessary safety gear and wetsuits for comfort
• Features scenic views of the Rockies and gentle Class II-III rapids
• Offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with memorable photo opportunities
• Booking generally opens about 4 weeks in advance, and the tour is priced at $146.04 per person

An In-Depth Look at the Arkansas River Family Float Experience

The Starting Point: Arkansas River Tours Office

Your adventure begins at the Arkansas River Tours – Colorado Rafting and Fishing Office in Cotopaxi, about a 45-minute drive from Colorado Springs. This check-in process is straightforward and friendly—expect a warm greeting from staff who will outfit you with all the necessary gear, including helmets, life vests, splash jackets, wetsuits, and rafting equipment. The safety briefing is thorough, emphasizing key points to keep everyone secure and comfortable on the water.

This initial step isn’t just about gear; it’s a quick orientation that sets the tone for the entire trip. You’ll learn what to expect, how to sit in the raft, and the basic commands your guide will use. All this preparation helps create a relaxed atmosphere, especially important with kids or first-timers.

The Shuttle to the Put-In

After gearing up, a short shuttle whisks you to the river’s edge, where the real adventure begins. The ride itself is brief but offers a glimpse of Colorado’s rugged landscape—an appetizer for the views ahead.

The River Section: Gently Rolling Rapids & Scenic Views

Once at the river, your guide will give specific instructions, then you’ll hop into your raft. It’s not a high-octane ride; instead, expect a mellow journey through Class II-III rapids, designed to be fun without being intimidating. The guide stays in the raft with you at all times, providing commentary and ensuring safety while allowing everyone to take in the stunning mountain scenery.

The raft glides over gently rolling rapids, perfect for families with young children or seniors. Many reviews mention how the guides, like Dan and Kourtney, are knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, making the experience feel both safe and enjoyable. One guest raved about how their guide answered every question and kept the trip light-hearted, creating a memorable family outing.

Scenic Highlights and Photo Opportunities

Throughout the float, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, with the river winding through lush, green banks and dramatic cliff faces. These moments make excellent photo ops—many guests purchase souvenir photos afterward, capturing their smiles amid nature.

The End of the Float & Post-Trip Relaxation

The trip concludes at a private beach near the starting point. Here, you can change into dry clothes, review your photos, and savor the sense of accomplishment. The entire experience lasts roughly 1.5 to 2.5 hours, providing enough time for a fun outing without feeling rushed or exhausted.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews highlight the quality of guides and breathtaking scenery as the tour’s best features. One reviewer shared, “Our guide Dan was knowledgeable and made the experience enjoyable—we never felt in danger, and the kids wanted to keep going!” Another praised the stunning views that “looked straight out of a movie,” emphasizing how the gentle rapids made it accessible for first-timers.

On the flip side, one review mentions a less-than-ideal experience due to a rude guide, indicating that customer service can vary. However, the overall ratings are high, and many comments reflect a warm, family-friendly atmosphere with guides who are both professional and personable.

Value for Money

At $146.04 per person, this tour offers good value considering all gear, safety instructions, guides, and transportation are included. It’s a hassle-free way to enjoy Colorado’s natural beauty without the need for intermediate skills or intense physical effort. For families, the convenience and safety make it a worthwhile splurge, particularly when compared to more adrenaline-heavy activities.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book early—most travelers reserve about 4 weeks in advance, especially in peak season.
• Dress in synthetic, moisture-wicking clothing; avoid cotton, which can become heavy when wet.
• Wear closed-toe shoes like sneakers; flip-flops or crocs are discouraged for safety reasons.
• Expect to spend about 2 hours total, including check-in, gear-up, shuttle, float, and return.
• Bring a camera or phone in a waterproof case—you’ll want to capture the stunning scenery.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect if you’re traveling with kids or seniors, or if you simply want to enjoy Colorado’s natural beauty without tackling rough waters. It’s a wonderful choice for families, first-time rafters, or anyone seeking a scenic, safe introduction to rafting. The guides’ expertise and the relaxed pace ensure everyone feels comfortable, making it an ideal outing for those who prioritize safety, scenery, and a touch of adventure.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, this float is designed to be family-friendly, with gentle rapids and professional guides ensuring safety and fun for kids and seniors alike.

How long does the entire tour last?
The total experience takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes, including check-in, gear-up, shuttle, and the float itself.

What gear is provided?
All necessary safety gear is included, such as helmets, life vests, splash jackets, wetsuits, and rafting gear, keeping you comfortable and protected.

Can I buy photos of my trip?
Yes, souvenir photos are available for purchase after the trip, giving you a way to remember your Colorado adventure.

What should I wear?
Dress in synthetic clothing that dries quickly, such as swimwear or workout gear. Avoid cotton and sandals with heels or flip-flops.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points, making logistics easy.

Do I need prior rafting experience?
No experience is necessary; guides will give instructions, and the rapids are suitable for beginners.

Final Thoughts

The Mild Scenic Family Float on the Arkansas River offers a beautifully balanced adventure—combining spectacular mountain views, professional guidance, and family-friendly fun. It’s clear from reviews and the itinerary that this is a tour designed to make everyone feel comfortable and engaged, whether you’re five or fifty-five.

While it might not satisfy those craving high-octane whitewater, it delivers enough excitement for first-timers and plenty of scenic tranquility for those simply wanting to enjoy Colorado’s stunning outdoors. The included gear and safety briefings mean you can relax and focus on the fun, making it an experience worth considering for your Colorado Springs trip.

If you’re after a relaxed, guided river adventure that highlights the Rockies’ beauty without overwhelming, this float hits the mark. It’s especially well-suited for families or anyone new to rafting who wants a safe, scenic, and memorable outing.