Float Clear Creek’s lively, free-flowing rapids on a 3-hour guided run that threads historical gold-rush sites and tight canyon drops. This intermediate raft delivers continuous whitewater near Denver with shuttle service and guided instruction.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You push off from a rocky launch point and the river grabs the raft like it has a plan of its own. Cold Clear Creek water hammers the hull, sprays your face, and pulls you through a run of continuous, punchy rapids carved between volcanic dikes and Pleistocene gravel plains. Pine and scrub climb the canyon walls; occasional mining ruins appear like punctuation from the 1859 Gold Rush that put this valley on the map.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 hours (including shuttle and prep)
Fitness Level
Moderate — be comfortable with dynamic movement, basic paddling strokes, and brief swims.
Wildlife
History
Clear Creek was a central artery of Colorado’s 1859 Gold Rush; remnants of placer mining are still visible from the river and nearby roads.
Conservation
The river corridor is sensitive—stay on designated access points, pack out trash, and avoid disturbing streambeds to protect aquatic habitat and archaeological sites.
Reserve your spot on the Clear Creek Intermediate Whitewater Rafting near Denver today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive 30 minutes early
Operators require early check-in for waivers, gear fitting, and safety briefings—plan accordingly to avoid missing launch.
Dress for splash and temperature
Wear quick-dry layers and river shoes; the outfitter provides wetsuits and splash jackets but a base layer helps with cold mornings.
Secure electronics
Use a small dry bag or leave cameras/phones onshore—phones in pockets are at high risk during swims.
Know the age & fitness rules
Participants must be 13+ and have moderate fitness for paddling and occasional swims; disclose health issues in advance.
Quick-dry synthetic layers
Keeps you warm when paired with the provided wetsuit and dries quickly after splashes.
spring
Secure water shoes or sandals with heel strap
Protect feet on rocky put-in points and provide traction during wet exits.
summer
Small dry bag or waterproof case
Protects phone, keys and small items from inevitable spray or a wet exit.
Sunscreen and SPF lip balm
Reflection off water increases UV exposure—reapply after paddling or sweat.
summer