Adventure Collective
null - Denver

Guided Clear Creek Rafting: Beginner Trip

Dumonteasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have basic mobility and be in average health; no prior experience needed.

Overview

Discover the thrill of whitewater rafting on Clear Creek with this beginner-friendly guided trip. Perfect for newcomers, it combines scenic views, safety, and fun in the Colorado outdoors.

Rafting
Rentals
Walking Tour
Water Activities
Downieville-Lawson-Dumont, Colorado

Guided Clear Creek Rafting: Beginner Trip

A blast of excitement and taste of Colorado fun!

Select participants and date

Adventure Photos

Guided Clear Creek Rafting: Beginner Trip photo 1

About This Adventure

Save on morning trips!

About your Trip


Clear Creek is one of the best whitewater rafting rivers in Colorado, and for great reasons. Conveniently located about 45 minutes West of Denver, Clear Creek has a rafting trip option for varying ability and experience levels.

Our beginner trips are perfect for first time rafters or families and friends looking for a great introduction to whitewater rafting. This trip covers roughly 6 miles of river and offers amazing whitewater rapids, beautiful scenery and some peaceful floating. You’ll have a blast splashing through Class II-III rapids where we’ll help you develop your paddling skills. Relax as you meander through the historic mining town of Idaho Springs, past the Argo Gold Mine, and Charlie Taylor waterwheel. Keep an eye out for wildlife in the canyons surrounding you as you enjoy your Colorado adventure. This is a fabulous trip for families and large groups with varying ability levels.

Trip Details


  • Time: 9:00am, 1:00pm, and 4:00pm (Please arrive 30min prior to trip time for check-in and gear up)
  • Location: Clear Creek
  • Meeting Location: Colorado Rafting Company Boathouse @ 291 CR 308 Dumont, CO 80436
  • Duration: 1/3 day (~ 2.5 - 3 hours total) Including check-in, gear up, shuttles, and on-water time
  • Whitewater Class: II-III 
  • Season: May - August
  • Price: $69 - $79
  • Minimum Age: 6 years old. May vary with water flows*

Itinerary


  • Meet at Colorado Rafting Company Boathouse @ 291 CR 308 Dumont, CO
  • Gear up & meet your guide(s)
  • Shuttle ride to put in
  • River time
  • Take out and shuttle back to the Boathouse

Trip Package Includes

  • CAG professional rafting guides
  • All safety & rafting equipment
  • Wetsuits if needed
  • Transportation from designated meeting place to the put-in
  • A safe, fun, and educational experience.

Trip Package Does Not Include

  • Lodging
  • Clothing (See recommended gear under FAQs)
  • Splash jackets and booties available for additional rental fee
  • Insurance (Trip or Rescue)
  • Gratuity

About Your Guides

Colorado Adventure Guides and Colorado Rafting Company delivers four seasons of outdoor adventure and education. With operations in seven USFS and BLM ranger districts, we serve a dynamic and growing population of outdoor enthusiasts. Our all-season, guided operations include:

  • Rock Climbing
  • Mountaineering
  • Hiking/Peak Accents
  • Mountain Biking
  • Whitewater Rafting/SUPing
  • Backcountry Skiing
  • Backcountry Splitboarding
  • Snowshoeing
  • Ice Climbing
  • AIARE Snow Safety

We have been providing incredible experiences to visitors of Summit County and surrounding areas for over 20 years. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned expert, let us take you on your next unforgettable outdoor adventure!

FAQs


Do I need any prior training to participate in this course?

No prior training or experience is necessary to sign up for this trip. Those with previous experience are welcome too.

Do I need to bring any gear?

No specialized gear is required for these adventures. We provide all specialized equipment needed. You bring clothing and apparel appropriate for being outside on a Colorado summer day on the river. The water is cold so don’t be afraid to bring your long underwear and fleece jackets for this classic Colorado rafting trip. Wetsuits are complimentary if needed and splash jackets and booties are available for an additional small rental fee. You will need shoes that are secured to your feet, i.e NO Flip flops or Crocs

Should We Tip Our Guide?

Your guides work hard before, during, and after your trip to provide you with a great experience, and while not expected, gratuities are always highly appreciated. If you had a safe, educational, and fun experience, gratuities typically range from 15-20%.

When Does White Water Rafting Start on Clear Creek?

The season for rafting Clear Creek is May through August, depending on water levels.

What To Wear Rafting in Colorado?

Avoid cotton clothing, as it tends to get wet and stay wet – not to mention taking valuable warmth from your body’s surface. For rafting, bathing suits and shorts or long sleeve/leg poly pro style clothing is recommended with comfortable, secure footwear (No Flip Flops or Crocs). While not required, we do provide wetsuits free of charge. Splash jackets and booties are also available for rent for a additional small fee. This equipment isn’t mandatory but it is designed to keep you warm. Towels are best kept in your vehicles and don’t do you much good on the river because there is no way to keep them dry. Your best bet are wool, polypro, fleece, micro fleece, polyester, waterproof jackets, and any other outdoor material that dries fast. Space is limited on the rafts, so limit what you bring to what you can wear. Personal flotation devices (PFDs) are included with all rafting adventures and helmets on all Clear Creek trips. If you have any questions please call us so that you know what to expect and can plan accordingly.

What Should We Bring on a Rafting Trip?

Please see our equipment lists for activity specific gear. For rafting you will want to bring a few towels to leave in your car; you’ll be happy to have something to dry off with after your adventure. Leave a change of dry clothes in your car, too. Our basecamps offer changing rooms so you can be comfortable after your Colorado raft adventure. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, sunglasses straps, and hats that protect from the sun. Bring water for hydration. Remember, you’re in the Colorado Rockies, and it’s important to stay hydrated!

Is there a minimum age required for this trip?

We typically accept participants 6 years or older on beginner trips, if they are accompanied by a legal guardian. You must be 18 years or older to attend a trip on your own.

Adventure Tips

Wear Quick-Drying Clothing

Opt for quick-drying clothes and avoid cotton to stay comfortable if you get wet.

Use Sun Protection

Apply sunscreen and wear a hat or visor to protect yourself from sun exposure during the trip.

Bring Waterproof Cameras

Capture your adventure with waterproof cameras or phone cases, but keep them secured in waterproof bags.

Follow Your Guide’s Instructions

Pay close attention to safety instructions from your guides to ensure a fun and safe experience.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bald eagles
  • Bighorn sheep

History

Clear Creek was historically a vital route during the Colorado Gold Rush, and remnants of old mining towns can be explored nearby.

Conservation

Colorado Adventure Guides follows strict safety and environmental practices to minimize impact, promoting Leave No Trace principles.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Denver

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Quick-Drying Clothing

Essential

Wear clothes that dry quickly to stay comfortable after getting wet.

Waterproof Sunscreen

Essential

Protect your skin from the sun with waterproof sunscreen for all-day comfort.

Secure Footwear

Essential

Wear closed-toe shoes with a secure fit to protect your feet and ensure safety.

Layered Clothing

Bring layers to adjust for temperature changes during cooler months.

winter|spring|fall specific