Rafting the Numbers, Colorado: Tight passages and steep drops
Navigate nonstop rapids and steep drops with all gear ready for you
The Numbers Rafting is a 2.5-hour whitewater activity on the Arkansas River at its headwaters in Colorado, where you navigate tight passages, steep drops and continuous action with a professional guide. Minimum age is 15. Check-in is 45 minutes before departure. All gear (helmet, Type V PFD, wetsuit, splash jacket and river shoes) is included.
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The experience
You're on a free afternoon in Colorado and want to get on the water without spending the whole day. The Numbers section of the Arkansas River delivers non-stop whitewater in a half-day window. A professional guide leads a shared raft through tight passages and steep drops at the river's headwaters, where the current runs fast and the action stays constant. The 2.5-hour trip is built around the rapids themselves, not the scenery around them, so the pace is what matters.
Everything you need to raft is provided: helmet, Type V personal flotation device, wetsuit, splash jacket and river shoes. You arrive 45 minutes before departure to check in and get fitted. The Colorado Parks use and access fee is included in the booking. The guide handles the technical calls and the route. You operate the paddle and read the current with the rest of the raft. The river runs in all weather, so dress for cold and wet.
What’s included
- Professional guide in English.
- helmet, Type V personal flotation device, wetsuit, splash jacket and river shoes.
- Colorado Parks use and access fee.
Before you book
Prices and times updated 12 days ago
Operated by American Adventure Expeditions
Is this one for you?You paddle the raft yourself under the guide's direction, so this suits anyone 15 or older who wants to be active on the water rather than watch from a boat. The continuous rapids and tight passages mean high physical demand, so come ready to work the paddle for the full 2.5 hours.
Traveler reviews
Top questions
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.
What is the Numbers section of the Arkansas River like?
The Numbers is the headwaters stretch of the Arkansas River in Colorado, known for tight passages, steep drops and continuous rapids. It is a fast, technical section built for paddlers who want non-stop action rather than calm pools between rapids.
How old do you have to be to raft the Numbers?
You must be at least 15 years old to participate. The activity is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, pregnant travelers, or those with poor cardiovascular health. You should have a high level of physical fitness.
What gear is included in the rafting trip?
The raft, helmet, Type V PFD, wetsuit, splash jacket and river shoes are all provided. You bring only yourself and a change of clothes. Everything else is supplied and fitted before you launch.
How much time should I plan for the Numbers rafting?
The rafting itself is 2.5 hours on the water. Plan to arrive 45 minutes before the departure time for check-in and gear fitting, so block out roughly three and a half hours total.
Do I need any experience to raft the Numbers?
No prior rafting experience is required. The professional guide leads the raft and calls the moves. You paddle as instructed and follow the guide's direction through each rapid.
Rafting the Numbers, Colorado: Tight passages and steep drops
2h 30m · EN
from US$ 109.99 per person
5.005 reviewsVerified traveler reviews via our booking provider