Raft the Beautiful Upper Colorado

Rafting the Upper Colorado offers a chance to experience Colorado’s stunning wilderness from a unique vantage point—on the water. Guided by professional outfitters, this tour takes you through valleys, canyons, and alongside wildlife-rich shores, all in just about three and a half hours. From first-timers to experienced paddlers, the route’s gentle Class 2 rapids make it accessible and enjoyable for most, especially families.

One thing we love about this experience is how it combines scenic beauty with a touch of adrenaline—without overwhelming those new to whitewater. The opportunity to spot otters, eagles, big horn sheep, and even moose or bears along the riverbank adds a wild touch to the adventure. A notable highlight is the optional cliff jump, which provides a fun, heart-racing moment for those looking to add a splash of thrill. Plus, the chance to pause and enjoy Radium Hot Springs nearby makes it feel like a well-rounded day of outdoor discovery.

A potential consideration is the water level, which can fluctuate and sometimes lead to schedule adjustments, as noted in reviews. The tour is best suited for those wanting a relaxing yet engaging outdoor activity that’s family-friendly and offers plenty of natural beauty. It’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking a combination of adventure, wildlife viewing, and scenic tranquility in Colorado.

Key Points

• Family-friendly adventure: Light Class 2 rapids make it suitable for all ages and first-time rafters.
• Wildlife sightings: Otters, eagles, big horn sheep, and possibly moose or bears make this trip special.
• Additional thrills: Optional cliff jumps (7 and 25 feet) add excitement for adrenaline seekers.
• Beautiful scenery: The river winds through breathtaking valleys, canyons, and offers views of dramatic cliffs.
• Comfort and safety: Life jackets, wetsuits, and splash jackets are provided, ensuring a safe and comfortable trip.
• Flexible and convenient: About 3.5 hours from start to finish, with easy meeting points and a maximum group size of 48.

An In-Depth Look at the Rafting Experience

The Itinerary and What You’ll Do

Starting at 400e Park Ave, Kremmling, Colorado, the tour kicks off with a short safety briefing and equipment distribution. You’re given a life jacket, wetsuit, and splash jacket if needed—gear that’s crucial for comfort and safety, especially considering the varying weather conditions. Once suited up, you’ll board the raft and begin your glide through the Upper Colorado River.

While the trip lasts roughly 1.5 to 2 hours on the water, the total experience extends to about 3.5 hours including preparation and briefings. The journey is a relaxed float through rolling valleys and dramatic canyons, making the most of Colorado’s natural scenery. The guide will steer you through Class 2 rapids, which are playful, light, and manageable, making this perfect for first-timers or families with children.

Wildlife and Scenic Highlights

One of the standout features of this tour is the wildlife viewing. Past visitors have shared encounters with otters swimming alongside the raft and eagles soaring overhead. Big horn sheep have been seen scaling cliffs, and some even report spotting moose or bears along the river’s edges—though these sightings aren’t guaranteed, they’re common enough to keep the trip exciting. The guides are knowledgeable about local wildlife and often point out interesting sights along the way, adding an educational touch to the adventure.

The scenery is truly spectacular—the river winds through areas that seem untouched by modern life, with towering cliffs and lush greenery. Reviewers frequently mention how the views are “top notch,” and that the landscape alone makes the trip worthwhile.

The Cliff Jump and Extra Thrills

For those craving a bit more adrenaline, the tour offers a stop at a 25-foot cliff jump, with a safer 7-foot option as well. This is a hit among thrill-seekers and groups looking to spice up their float. The jump isn’t obligatory, so if jumping isn’t your thing, you can simply enjoy the scenery and the peaceful float.

Radium Hot Springs and Optional Stops

Another bonus is the opportunity to eddy out and relax at Radium Hot Springs. Many groups take a moment to soak in the natural thermal waters along the riverbank, a perfect way to unwind after some light rapids. This flexibility enhances the overall experience, making it more than just a whitewater tour—it’s about connecting with nature.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

Meeting Point and Duration

The tour begins at 400e Park Ave, Kremmling, and the entire experience lasts around 3 hours 30 minutes. This includes gear-up time, the float itself, and any stops like the cliff jump or relaxing at Radium Hot Springs. The activity ends back at the starting point, making logistics straightforward.

Group Size and Price

With a maximum of 48 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate feel without feeling overly crowded. The price is $93, which we find highly reasonable considering the included gear, guides, and the scenic value. The cost covers a well-organized experience—gear, safety equipment, and the expertise of guides like Kenny or Andrew, who are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor.

What’s Included

• Life jackets, crucial for safety
• Wetsuits and splash jackets if needed, ensuring comfort regardless of weather
• The experience is mobile-ticket, making for a seamless booking process

Cancellation Flexibility

Booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. This offers peace of mind if your plans change unexpectedly.

Authentic Feedback from Past Travelers

Multiple reviews speak to the professionalism and friendliness of the guides. One reviewer mentioned Kenny as a phenomenal guide with a great sense of humor who made the first rafting experience memorable. Another highlighted Andrew’s fun and knowledgeable style, noting how the staff at Liquid Descent are consistently friendly and accommodating.

The feedback also underscores the value of the photo packages, which are affordable and allow you to capture the trip’s best moments—something many travelers cherish afterward.

The Experience’s Balance

While the light rapids keep it manageable for everyone, the optional cliff jump introduces just enough adrenaline without overshadowing the serene beauty of the surroundings. Some reviews mention how even non-swimmers or those hesitant about jumping felt comfortable with the guides’ support.

Potential Drawbacks

A few reviews note that water levels can vary, which might lead to schedule changes or limitations on certain activities. It’s advisable to keep an eye on weather conditions and be flexible. Also, as the tour is weather-dependent, poor conditions could lead to cancellations or rescheduling, but the policy offers full refunds if that happens.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This rafting trip is ideal for families, first-timers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Its manageable pace and gentle rapids make it perfect for kids and older travelers alike. If you’re looking for a scenic float that combines wildlife spotting with some optional fun jumps, this is a solid choice. It suits travelers who appreciate guided experiences with safety and comfort as priorities.

If you’re after high-adrenaline whitewater or a longer, more challenging river trip, this may not be the best fit. However, for those wanting an authentic, kid-friendly adventure in Colorado’s wilderness, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

Rafting the Upper Colorado with Liquid Descent offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, and light adventure. The knowledgeable guides, like Kenny and Andrew, enhance the trip with their friendly professionalism and local insights. The optional cliff jumps and chance to relax at Radium Hot Springs add layers of fun and relaxation to what is already a memorable experience.

At just over $90, the tour provides excellent value—gear, safety, and stunning scenery included. It’s especially well-suited for families, first-timers, and anyone wanting a laid-back but engaging outdoor activity that showcases Colorado’s natural wonders.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic float with opportunities for wildlife viewing and a bit of thrill, this trip checks all the boxes. Just remember to keep an eye on water levels and weather conditions, and you’re in for a truly enjoyable day on the Upper Colorado.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the light Class 2 rapids and family-friendly atmosphere make it suitable for children, especially with guides who are attentive to safety.

How long is the rafting experience?
The water portion lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, but the total tour duration is approximately 3 hours 30 minutes including gear up and stops.

Are wetsuits provided?
Yes, wetsuits and splash jackets are included if needed, ensuring comfort regardless of weather.

Can I do the cliff jump?
Yes, there’s a stop for a 25-foot cliff jump, with a safer 7-foot option available. Jumping is optional.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see otters, eagles, big horn sheep, and possibly moose or bears along the riverbank.

What’s included in the price?
Gear such as life jackets, wetsuits, splash jackets, and the guidance of experienced guides are included.

What’s the meeting point?
The tour starts and ends at 400e Park Ave, Kremmling, Colorado.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is prior rafting experience necessary?
No, the trip is designed to be accessible for beginners and first-time rafters.

How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 48 travelers participate in each tour, ensuring a comfortable, engaging experience.

This rafting tour on the Upper Colorado provides a fantastic mix of scenery, wildlife, and gentle adventure, making it a standout outdoor activity for any Colorado trip.