Browns Canyon Rafting Adventure with Performance Tours in Buena Vista - Colorado Springs

Browns Canyon Rafting Adventure with Performance Tours in Buena Vista

Colorado Springsmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3–5 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have a basic level of physical fitness to handle paddling and maintaining balance on the raft.

Overview

Experience thrilling white water rafting through Browns Canyon with Performance Tours Rafting in Buena Vista, Colorado. Discover expert guides, stunning scenery, and a safe, exhilarating adventure on the Arkansas River.

Details

Performance Tours Rafting offers an unforgettable white water rafting experience in Browns Canyon, located just outside Buena Vista, Colorado. This spot is a renowned national monument known for its rugged granite cliffs, diverse wildlife, and exhilarating river runs on the Arkansas River. Performance Tours stands out for delivering small-group, personalized rafting trips that emphasize safety, expert guidance, and fun. From beginners to seasoned paddlers, each adventure is tailored with professional guides who bring extensive knowledge of the river and unique storytelling flair, making every rapid memorable. The Browns Canyon section of the Arkansas River is famed for its mix of class II to class IV rapids, flowing through dramatic canyons carved in granite with scenic views of cottonwood groves and mule deer. Visitors frequently spot bald eagles, river otters, and the occasional black bear along the river corridor. Performance Tours equips guests with high-quality wetsuits, helmets, and booties to ensure comfort in the cool mountain water common even during summer months. Their comprehensive safety briefing and hands-on approach by guides give newcomers the confidence to tackle the exciting rapids, while more experienced rafters can test their skills on bolder runs. Beyond the thrill of rafting, the location holds historical significance as Browns Canyon became a designated National Monument in 2015, preserving this pristine section of the Arkansas River for recreational and environmental protection. The company also enhances the experience by preparing fresh meals on select trips, adding a special touch to the adventure. Performance Tours Rafting plays a vital role in the local outdoor community by promoting sustainable river use and conservation awareness. The accessibility of Buena Vista makes it a prime base for accessing other nearby wilderness activities such as hiking, fishing, and mountain biking. For those seeking a standout river adventure in Colorado’s high country, Performance Tours Rafting in Browns Canyon delivers a combination of thrilling rapids, natural beauty, and expert leadership that ensures you leave with lasting memories.

Trail Tips

Wear Quick-Dry Clothing

You will get soaked on this rafting trip, so wear quick-dry or moisture-wicking clothes under the provided wetsuit.

Listen Closely to Safety Briefings

Guides provide thorough safety instructions—pay close attention to ensure a safe and confident trip down the rapids.

Hydrate Before and After the Trip

Even though you’ll be in the water, the altitude and physical exertion make proper hydration important.

Bring a Waterproof Camera or GoPro

Capture the action without worry—most of the time the river scenery is too good to miss.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Box Canyon Falls nearby for a peaceful hike
  • Fourmile Recreation Area for additional river views

Wildlife

  • Bald eagles soaring above the canyon
  • River otters playing along the banks

History

Browns Canyon was designated a National Monument in 2015 to protect its unique geology and valuable recreation opportunities.

Conservation

Performance Tours actively promotes Leave No Trace principles to preserve the river’s health and surrounding ecosystem for future generations.

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Midday for vibrant water color
Early morning for wildlife photos

Best Viewpoints

  • Granite cliffs overlooking the river
  • Raft deck during rapids
  • Box Canyon Falls nearby

What to Photograph

Rolling white water rapids
Local wildlife
Dramatic canyon rock formations

Recommended Gear

Quick-Dry Base Layer

Essential

Helps keep you comfortable and dry underneath your wetsuit during the trip.

summer specific

Waterproof Sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin from intense UV exposure reflected off the water.

summer specific

Water Shoes or Booties

Essential

Keeps feet warm and protected from rocky riverbeds and cold water.

spring specific

Waterproof Camera or Mount

Capture stunning rapids and river scenery without damage from water.

Frequently Asked Questions

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