Aspen Whitewater Rafting

Choose Your Aquatic Adventure in Aspen

Rafting, Kayaking, or Floating

There are many ways to experience Aspen's beautiful rivers and lakes, whether you're seeking the wild thrills of class IV rapids or mellow floats through pristine waterways. Here are just a few ways to spend a day on the water.

Whitewater Rafting: Participants suit up in wetsuits and dry jackets and hop aboard rafts that hold four to six paddlers plus the guide. Rafting trips range from mild to wild and are offered on all area rivers: the Roaring Fork River, Colorado River, Crystal River, and Arkansas River.

Duckies: These inflatable small rafts are more similar to kayaking; some outfitters include a guide in the boat, and some do not. These vessels make smaller rapids more exciting, and some outfitters allow guests to mix rafts and duckies on trips, which is a great way to satisfy varying levels of rafters on the same stretch of water.

Kayaks: These hard-bodied boats with skirts require more training, and local outfitters provide comprehensive courses that prep first-timers for solo paddling.

Innertube (or other float-worthy vessel): You don’t need something fancy to float the Stillwater section the Roaring Fork River that passes through North Star Nature Preserve, and a store-bought inflatable will do the trick! This is a great activity for families with children who can swim. Ask the Front Desk for put-in/take-out directions.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Don't forget this fun way to float! See our guide to SUP-ing in Aspen here.

Our recommendations

Below are local whitewater rafting companies that we trust. They offer good value, individual attention to guests, and (most importantly) are steeped in experience and safety. These third-party vendors can be contacted and booked directly or through our Concierge Desk. We recommend reserving your whitewater experience as soon as possible, as demand is high during peak season. Please call the Frias Properties Concierge at (970) 429-2449 for futher assistance.