Pair a cliffside zipline with an adrenaline-heavy 8-mile stretch of Class IV whitewater on Upper Clear Creek. This one-day Idaho Springs combo blends height and current into a full-throttle outdoor experience.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The morning air in Clear Creek Canyon tastes of cold river spray and pine. You’ll start clipped into harnesses on a cliffside platform where the zipline cuts a clean, thrilling line above Chicago Creek, then switch gears to a raft that hammers down an alpine torrent. The zipline’s six lines — including a 450‑foot finale over the creek — give the canyon a vertical punctuation, while the river below dares you through 8 miles of continuous whitewater.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
7 hours
Fitness Level
Should be in good cardiovascular shape with core strength for rafting bracing and the ability to handle exposure on ziplines.
Wildlife
History
Clear Creek Canyon was a conduit of the 1859 Colorado Gold Rush; many nearby towns originated as mining support hubs and logging roads later became trail corridors.
Conservation
The river corridor is sensitive to erosion and litter — stick to designated access points, pack out trash, and follow guide instructions to protect riparian habitat.
Reserve your spot on the Upper Clear Creek Whitewater Rafting plus Cliffside Zipline from Idaho Springs today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Footwear locked in
Closed-toe, secure shoes with good grip are required for both zipline platforms and moving in rafts; no flip-flops or Crocs.
Bring a dry bag
A small dry bag keeps your phone, wallet, and snacks safe between the zipline and rafting sections.
Hydrate and fuel up
You’ll be active for ~7 hours; bring water and a hearty snack to refuel between activities or plan a lunch in Idaho Springs.
Be honest about weight & ability
Operators enforce 50–250 lb limits and require swimmers; disclose medical or mobility issues during booking.
Secure water shoes
Protects feet in the raft and provides traction on riverbanks and platform ladders.
Quick-dry layers and a swimsuit
Wicking clothing keeps you comfortable after splashy rapids and during the zipline portion.
summer
Waterproof phone case or small dry bag
Keeps electronics and snacks dry between activities and in the raft.
Warm mid-layer (fleece or synthetic)
Useful for cooler morning starts in spring and fall when canyon temperatures drop.
spring