Denver: Clear Creek Whitewater Rafting & Rapids Day Trip

Summary

Whitewater thrills, gold rush echoes, riverside laughs near Denver

You’ll grip your paddle tight as Clear Creek’s rapids toss you around—with expert guides keeping things fun (and safe). See traces of Colorado’s Gold Rush history along the banks, laugh with your crew as cold water hits, and end your day swapping stories back at base. It sticks with you longer than you’d think.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the cold splash sneaking into my wetsuit as we pushed off into Clear Creek. It’s louder than I expected—water slapping rocks, our guide shouting instructions over it all (“forward two!”), and someone behind me already laughing nervously. The rapids come quick out here, just thirty minutes from Denver, but it doesn’t feel close to a city at all. There’s this weird mix of pine smell and wet river stone that hits you when you’re right down in the canyon. I didn’t expect to notice that.

Our guide, Jamie, pointed out some old wooden beams sticking up from the bank—remnants from the Gold Rush days. Apparently people still pan for gold here (I guess that’s legal?), which made me look at the creek differently for a second. Between rapids Jamie told us about miners who camped along these banks in 1859. Hard to imagine anyone sleeping here with all this noise and spray, but maybe they got used to it. The water level changes with the season—today it was high and fast, so we barely had time to catch our breath between rapids.

I’ll admit I lost my paddle once (don’t worry—they make you wear helmets and life vests), but nobody cared except me. There was a moment where we just floated through a calm patch and everyone went quiet except for the sound of water dripping off our paddles. Afterward, back at the outpost, Jamie gave us tips on where to get good tacos nearby—I’m still thinking about those tacos honestly. If you’re looking for a day trip from Denver that actually feels like an adventure (and not just a photo op), this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Clear Creek Whitewater Rafting Adventure

• Arrive 30 minutes early for check-in
• Meet guides and get rafting equipment
• Learn rafting and river safety basics
• Shuttle to creek-side launch point
• Enjoy whitewater rafting on Clear Creek
• Return to outpost by shuttle
• Shop for keepsakes and get local tips

Top questions

How far is Clear Creek rafting from Denver?

Clear Creek is about 30 minutes by car from downtown Denver.

Is equipment included for Clear Creek whitewater rafting?

Yes, helmet, personal flotation device, paddles, wetsuits, and splash jackets are included.

What age do you have to be for Clear Creek intermediate rafting?

Participants must be aged 13 and up for this intermediate trip.

Are there historical sites on this rafting tour?

You’ll pass several Gold Rush-era sites along Clear Creek during the trip.

Do I need previous rafting experience?

No prior experience is required but moderate fitness is recommended.

Is lunch or food provided on this day trip?

No meals are included; guides can recommend local places after your tour.

Is hotel pickup available for this rafting tour?

No hotel pickup; guests meet at the outpost before their scheduled trip time.

Can pregnant travelers join this rafting tour?

No, pregnant travelers are not recommended to participate due to safety risks.

What’s included

Your day includes all necessary equipment—helmet, life vest, paddles, wetsuit and splash jacket—plus shuttle transport between the outpost and creek launch point. Guides handle safety briefings and share local tips after your adventure before you head out or grab a keepsake at base camp.