Glenwood Springs: Shoshone Rapids Rafting Trip & Hot Springs

Summary

Thrilling rapids, canyon stories, and a hot spring surprise on the Colorado River

You’ll feel your pulse race on Shoshone Rapids near Glenwood Springs, then sink into riverside hot springs as your guide shares canyon tales. Paddle hard through class III-IV waves, float beneath towering cliffs, and finish with a warm shower steps from your car—leaving you both exhilarated and oddly peaceful.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I almost chickened out when I saw the river. The Colorado looked way bigger up close than from the road, and our guide, Mike, just grinned like he knew something we didn’t. We’d barely pushed off before we were right into the Shoshone Rapids — Tombstone first (aptly named), then The Wall. Cold spray hit my face and I think I yelled something that wasn’t English. Mike just shouted “paddle forward!” and somehow we made it through without anyone falling in. My heart was pounding so hard I could hear it over the water.

After those first wild minutes, things mellowed out. The canyon walls were streaked with orange and gray, sunlight flickering through cottonwoods overhead. Mike started telling us stories about Glenwood Canyon — how the railroad workers used to blast through here, how the river shifts every year. At one point he pointed out a spot where natural hot springs bubble right into the river; you can actually stop and soak if the flow’s low enough. That part felt surreal — sitting half in cold river water, half in this warm mineral spring, steam curling up around us while someone downstream laughed at their own soggy shoe.

I still think about that mix of adrenaline and calm — one minute clutching my paddle for dear life, next minute floating quietly past osprey nests while Mike handed out snacks from a dry bag (granola bars never taste as good as after rapids). We finished right back at their private ramp, which meant no awkward shuttle rides or waiting around freezing in wet gear. There were showers too — not fancy but honestly all I wanted was to get river grit out of my ears. So yeah, if you’re thinking about a day trip rafting in Glenwood Springs… don’t overthink it like I did.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Glenwood Springs rafting adventure

• Meet at river front facility
• Raft 9 miles upriver
• Navigate class III-IV rapids
• Learn Glenwood Canyon history
• Stop to soak in hot springs
• Return to private river ramp
• Walk to warm shower and car
• View trip photos

Top questions

How long is the Glenwood Springs rafting trip?

The rafting trip lasts about 3 hours from start to finish.

Where does the rafting tour start and end?

The tour starts and ends at a private riverfront facility in Glenwood Springs.

What class are the Shoshone Rapids?

The Shoshone Rapids are mostly class III-IV rapids on the Colorado River.

Is there an age minimum for this rafting trip?

The minimum age for participants is 5 years old.

Are natural hot springs included during the trip?

If river flows are low enough, you can stop to soak where hot springs meet the river.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at the riverfront facility.

Do I need prior rafting experience?

No prior experience is required; suitable for all physical fitness levels.

What should I bring for this day trip rafting Glenwood Springs?

You should bring clothes that can get wet and a sense of adventure!

What’s included

Your half-day includes all national park fees and local taxes, expert guiding from launch to finish at our private ramp in Glenwood Springs, chances to soak in riverside hot springs if conditions allow, plus access to showers right after you step off the raft—so you’re comfortable before heading home or viewing your trip photos onsite.