Rafting Clear Creek: Class II-III rapids for families, ages 6+

Paddle Class II-III whitewater and float past Colorado's gold rush history

A 2.5-hour beginner rafting trip on Clear Creek near Idaho Springs, Colorado, where you paddle through Class II-III rapids and float past mining ruins and historic sites. The river runs 6 miles through a canyon with scenic flats and wildlife. Departures twice daily at 9 am and 12:30 pm. Certified guides, all safety and rafting equipment, and transportation from the boathouse to the put-in are included. Children from age 6 are welcome.

The experience

Clear Creek is one of Colorado's best whitewater rivers, and this trip covers the beginner-friendly stretch that mixes active paddling with calmer sections. You'll spend roughly 2.5 hours on the water, paddling through Class II-III rapids where the guide helps you develop your technique, then floating through peaceful stretches where you can take in the canyon walls and watch for wildlife. The 6-mile run passes the Argo Gold Mine and Charlie Taylor waterwheel (remnants of the gold rush that built Idaho Springs in 1859), so the scenery carries the area's history alongside the whitewater.

The trip launches twice daily at 9 am and 12:30 pm, so you can fit it around the rest of your day near Denver (about 30 minutes away) or as part of a longer mountain itinerary. A certified guide leads the group, handles safety, and provides all the equipment you need: life jacket, helmet, paddle, and the raft itself. Transportation from the boathouse to the put-in point is included, so you don't arrange a separate shuttle. Wetsuits, splash tops and booties are available to rent separately if the water temperature or your comfort level calls for them.

This is built for first-timers, families and groups with mixed experience. The canyon offers enough whitewater to feel like real paddling without the intensity of advanced rapids, and kids as young as 6 can join. The peaceful floating sections give you time to recover between rapids and to notice the mining ruins and canyon wildlife that make this stretch of Clear Creek distinct from other beginner runs in the state.

What’s included

• Certified guide leading the group.
• all safety equipment (life jacket, helmet) and rafting gear (paddle, raft).
• transportation from the boathouse to the put-in point on Clear Creek.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 15 May 2027

AgesAdult (12 to 80 years) · Child (6 to 11 years) · Under 6: can't be booked

GroupUp to 14 · max 7 per booking

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 21 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effort

Operated by Colorado Adventure Guides

Is this one for you?The twice-daily departures at 9 am and 12:30 pm let you choose the timing that fits your schedule, whether you're starting early or joining an afternoon adventure. The 2.5-hour duration and calm floating sections between rapids make it manageable for families with younger children and first-time rafters who want real whitewater without an all-day commitment.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (6 to 11 years). Children under 6 can't be included in the booking.

What rapids will I paddle on Clear Creek?

You'll paddle through Class II-III rapids, which are beginner-friendly whitewater with waves and some splashing but no dangerous drops. The guide teaches you paddling technique as you move through them, and the trip mixes these active sections with calmer floating stretches.

Can I bring my 6-year-old on this rafting trip?

Yes, children from age 6 are welcome. The trip is designed for families and first-time rafters, and the Class II-III rapids and calm sections are suitable for younger paddlers with adult supervision.

What historic sites will I see on the water?

You'll float past the Argo Gold Mine and the Charlie Taylor waterwheel, both remnants of Idaho Springs' gold rush era. The canyon itself holds mining ruins throughout, and you'll meander through the historic town of Idaho Springs as part of the run.

How long does the whole experience take?

The trip on the water is 2.5 hours. You'll need to arrive a little early for a safety briefing and gear fitting, so plan for roughly three hours total from boathouse to the end of the run.

What do I need to bring or wear?

Wear clothes you don't mind getting wet and bring a change for after. Water shoes or sandals with a strap work well. All safety equipment (life jacket, helmet, paddle), and the raft are provided. Wetsuits, splash tops and booties are available to rent for a small fee if you want extra warmth or protection.