Best White Water Rafting in Colorado
Colorado is a state that’s known for its outdoor activity opportunities. As well as its stunning hiking trails, endless choices for the climbers amongst us, multiple beautiful rivers to choose from to canoe or kayak on, not to mention its famous skiing locations, there’s one other activity that Colorado really comes out top on.
White water rafting is one of the top activities available in the centennial state, and with good reason. It’s got some of the best white water rafting locations not jst in the states but in the world - including Big Drops 2 and 3 and Lava Falls (yes, that’s as cool as it sounds).
But one of the best centres for this adventure activity in Colorado is the Royal Gorge, which is overflowing with options for day trips and shorter adventures doing this high-octane activity.
Rafting Near the Royal Gorge
Why is the Royal Gorge so popular for white water rafting? Well one reason is that this area has a huge range of rapids for different abilities. A beginner will be able to enjoy a gentle ride in class 2 or 3 rapids, while an advanced rafter will be able to get their adrenaline hit and practice their skills on more intense routes with plenty of class 4 and 5 routes as well.
There are also a huge number of rafting instructors and outdoor adventure companies just waiting to take you down the Arkansas River rafting, so you will never feel like you’re short of choice - and honestly, if you are feeling a bit nervous about trying this activity for the first time, you’ll never be far from one professional or another.
The Royal Gorge also offers some of the best white water rafting in Colorado because it provides some stunning views of wildlife and the local landscape, as well as a fascinating insight into the geological history of the area as you float through the gorge, taking in the beautiful rock features along the way.
The Royal Gorge also has some of the most famous rapids in Colorado all concentrated in one place - Sunshine Falls, the Sledgehammer, and The Narrows are all on this stretch of one of America’s most popular rivers, the Arkansas River.
So if you’ve been looking at white water rafting for your next adventure but weren’t sure where to go, your first instruction is this: head to Colorado. Your second instruction? Head to the Royal Gorge.

