Glenwood Canyon: Half-Day Whitewater Rafting & Shoshone Rapids

Summary

Whitewater splashes canyon walls echo laughter river slows sun warms faces

You’ll grip your paddle through Shoshone Rapids with an expert guide leading the way, then drift through Glenwood Canyon’s quieter stretches as sunlight dances on the water. Expect laughter, splashes, maybe a cold swim if you’re brave — plus hotel pickup and all gear sorted so you can just show up ready to go.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the scrape of gravel under my sandals at the Defiance boathouse in Glenwood Springs — and this nervous energy in the air, like everyone was pretending not to check out each other’s paddling skills. Our guide, Jamie (who’d clearly seen it all), tossed us helmets and cracked a joke about “beginner paddlers surviving Shoshone.” I liked her instantly. The shuttle up Glenwood Canyon was quiet except for someone’s water bottle rolling around and Jamie pointing out some weird rock formation that looked like a sleeping bear. It’s funny what sticks in your head.

I could hear the Colorado River before I saw it — this low rumble that got louder as we unloaded near the Shoshone Rapids. The water looked colder than I expected, slate-green and moving fast. When we pushed off, Jamie yelled “forward!” and suddenly we were in it — spray everywhere, my knuckles white on the paddle. There was this one moment where we hit a wave sideways and I thought for sure I’d end up swimming (I didn’t). My friend Ben let out this wild laugh behind me; honestly, that sound still makes me grin thinking back.

After the rapids eased off, everything changed. The canyon opened up wide and quiet except for birds overhead and our raft bumping gently along. Sunlight came through in these stripes across the water — you know that feeling when your wet shirt finally starts to dry? That. Jamie told us stories about old railroad tunnels and how spring runoff can turn Class III into Class IV overnight. We even had a chance to jump in (colder than you think) before floating back toward Glenwood Springs. My arms were tired but in a good way — like I’d actually done something real with my morning.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Glenwood Canyon whitewater rafting

• Meet at Defiance boathouse
• Gear up and trip briefing
• Shuttle to Shoshone Rapids
• Put-in on Colorado River
• Raft down Class III-IV rapids
• Float through Glenwood Canyon
• Arrive back at Glenwood Springs

Top questions

How long does the Glenwood Canyon half-day rafting trip last?

The trip takes about 2 1/2 to 3 hours depending on river flow.

Is hotel pickup included for the Glenwood Canyon rafting tour?

Yes, free hotel pickup and drop-off are available with 24-hour notice.

What class are the rapids on this Colorado whitewater rafting tour?

The Shoshone section has Class III rapids (Class IV at higher water).

Are wetsuits or splash jackets provided?

Yes, optional use of wetsuits, river booties, and splash-jackets is included.

What is the minimum age for rafting through Shoshone Rapids?

Paddlers must be at least ten years old for Shoshone Rapids; younger kids join below at Grizzly Creek.

Where does the tour start?

You meet at Defiance boathouse in Glenwood Springs (77 Mel Rey Rd.).

Is this rafting tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

What time does the rafting trip depart?

The trip departs daily at 9:00am and 1:00pm; check-in is 45 minutes prior.

What’s included

Your half-day includes shuttle service up Glenwood Canyon with free hotel pickup if you call ahead, all safety gear like helmet and lifejacket (PFD), optional wetsuits or splash jackets if you want them, plus no extra fees or taxes to worry about — just show up ready for adventure on the Colorado River.