Upper Colorado River float: Full-day class II rapids tour

Six hours on the water: mellow rapids, mountain scenery, and a deli lunch on the riverbank

A full-day scenic float on the Upper Colorado River from Kremmling takes you 11 to 14 miles downstream through the Gore Range on class II rapids suitable for all ages. The trip includes a professional guide, all paddling gear, and a deli-style lunch the guides set up on the riverbank. Children from age 2 are welcome, and the pace is relaxed enough for families and first-time paddlers.

The experience

You start with a professional guide who handles the logistics and leads the group through a gently flowing section of the Colorado River that winds through mountain ranch land and the Gore Range. The water here moves at a pace that invites paddling without intensity: small class II rapids give you the feel of moving current without the adrenaline of whitewater. You'll paddle your own section, splash when the moment calls for it, and sunbathe between the active stretches. The river itself carries the story. This is the same water that begins at the Continental Divide, flows through seven states, and carves the Grand Canyon downstream.

Lunch happens on the riverbank, where your guides set up a deli-style spread for the group to share. This is a real meal break, not a quick snack, and it gives you time to rest and take in the surroundings from the shore. The whole trip runs about six hours from start to finish, which means you're on the water for the bulk of the day but back with time to spare before evening.

Gear is provided: helmet, wet suit, and splash jacket come with your booking, so you only need to bring secure footwear (no flip-flops or Crocs). The trip is wheelchair accessible, and it's built for all fitness levels. The defining trait is the mellow pace, not the physical demand. Children as young as 2 can float with the group as long as they meet the minimum weight of 30 pounds.

What’s included

• Professional guide leading the full day.
• all paddling gear including helmet, wet suit, and splash jacket.
• lunch prepared and served on the riverbank.
• taxes and fees.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 14 May 2027

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (13 to 80 years) · Child (2 to 12 years)

GroupUp to 30

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.

Prices and times updated 2 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortWheelchair accessible

Operated by AVA Rafting and Zipline

Is this one for you?The guide speaks English and leads the group at a pace suited to all ages and fitness levels, so families with young children and first-time paddlers can follow comfortably without prior experience.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (2 to 12 years).

What does the Upper Colorado River look like where we'll be floating?

The river winds through the Gore Range and mountain ranch land, a gently flowing section with small class II rapids. The scenery is mountain terrain rather than canyon walls, and the pace is relaxed enough that you can take it in as you paddle.

How long is the actual paddling versus time spent floating or resting?

The full trip is about six hours total. You'll paddle through small rapids and active sections, but the river here is mellow enough that you also have time to float, sunbathe, and rest between the moving water.

Is lunch included, and what kind of food should I expect?

Lunch is included and set up by your guides on the riverbank as a deli-style spread for the group. It's a real meal break, not a light snack, and happens midway through the day.

What gear do I need to bring, and what's provided?

The outfitter provides helmet, wet suit, and splash jacket. You need to bring secure footwear: hiking shoes or water shoes work well, but no flip-flops or Crocs. All other paddling equipment is included.