Family-Friendly Rafting on Big Bear Creek, Buena Vista
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Basic physical fitness is sufficient; participants should be able to sit in the raft and paddle with moderate effort.
Overview
Enjoy a family-friendly rafting adventure on Big Bear Creek with KODI Rafting. Perfect for beginners and kids, this 3.5-hour trip offers exciting rapids and stunning Colorado scenery.
Big Bear Creek 1/2 Day
Ages 4+ • 3.5 hours • Great for families! • Class II-III, Departure place: Buena Vista
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About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of a family-friendly rafting adventure in Colorado! Enjoy 1.5 hours on the scenic Arkansas River, navigating splashy class II to class III rapids perfect for all ages. With provided wetsuits and splash tops, this memorable half-day trip promises fun and excitement for everyone in the family.
Book a family-friendly raft trip in Colorado!
Duration
Plan on a 3.5 hour time commitment from the time of check-in, an estimated 1.5 hours on the water, and your river shuttles.
About
Introduce your family to the joy of being on the river and the majesty of Colorado’s scenery during this half day Colorado rafting trip.
Big Bear Creek is a mild stretch of water on the Arkansas River between just past the Town of Salida. Every member of your family will love the mixture of splashy class II to class III rapids. This section is great if you have young children or are looking for a scenic, mild float.
**Good to Know:**KODI Rafting includes wetsuits, booties and splash tops on your trip. Wetsuits are farmer johns, and a splash top is a heavy-duty rain jacket designed for the river.
More Info
This trip leaves from our Buena Vista Outpost.
What to bring
Avoid cotton, jeans & long pants if possible. Comfortable, quick-drying clothing is best. Any outdoor gear, such as neoprene, polypropylene, wool, or fleece is best. You’ll also want to bring hats, sunscreen, sunglasses and tennis shoes (that you don’t mind getting wet) or rubber-soled attachable (no flip-flops or Croc's) sport sandals.
Adventure Tips
Wear quick-dry clothing
Even with wetsuits provided, moisture-resistant clothing helps keep you comfortable during and after the trip.
Bring waterproof storage
Protect your phone, keys, and valuables in a waterproof bag or dry box during the rafting experience.
Arrive early for briefing
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your trip for safety instructions and gear fitting.
Check weather before your trip
Colorado weather can change quickly; dress accordingly and prepare for possible rain or cooler temperatures.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Merriam’s turkey
- River otters
History
The Arkansas River corridor near Buena Vista has been a hub for Native American tribes and early miners, shaping the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Conservation
Local outfitters emphasize Leave No Trace principles to reduce impact on the river ecosystem and preserve its natural beauty.
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Adventure Hotspots in Colorado Springs
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Quick-dry clothing
Keeps you comfortable by drying quickly if you get wet during rafting.
summer specific
Waterproof bag
Protects valuables like phones and cameras from water exposure.
Water shoes
Provides grip and protects your feet on slippery riverbanks and cold water.
spring specific
Sunhat and sunscreen
Protects you from intense sun exposure while on the open water.
summer specific