challenging
3–4 hours
Participants should have moderate to good physical fitness to handle paddling through continuous class III and IV rapids and react quickly to guide commands.
Take on continuous class III and IV rapids on Clear Creek, just minutes from Denver. Perfect for intermediate paddlers seeking an adrenaline-fueled river adventure with personalized guidance.
An action packed rafting adventure!
Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on Clear Creek, just 30 minutes from Denver. This intermediate adventure features continuous class III and IV rapids, perfect for both seasoned paddlers and eager beginners. Join a team of adventurers, navigate challenging waters, and create unforgettable memories in Colorado's stunning outdoors.
Clear Creek is one of the best whitewater rafting rivers in Colorado for great reasons. Conveniently located about 30 minutes west of Denver, Clear Creek has a rafting trip option for varying ability and experience levels.
For those who want a step up from beginner rafting, try this intermediate option. This trip is a great choice for experienced paddlers or aggressive first-timers craving the thrill and challenge of whitewater. With a steady dose of fun and challenging rapids, this trip requires active paddling and participation as we navigate the river as a team. First time paddlers and experienced paddlers alike are welcome, but active paddling is required. Being in good physical condition and having the ability to swim are recommended. Clear Creek is steep and narrow, and this section passes through over a dozen rapids as the river drops about 75 feet per mile. Listen to your guide, hold onto your paddle, and get wet! This exciting stretch of the river is Clear Creek’s most popular trip with continuous class III and IV rapids. Navigate rapids with such names as Nomad, Fall River, Phoenix, Deliverance, and the class IV climax, Outer Limits Rapid.
#Trip Details
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:
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!
First time paddlers and experienced paddlers alike are welcome, but active paddling is required. Being in good physical condition and having the ability to swim are recommended.
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
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%.
The season for rafting Clear Creek is May through August, depending on water levels.
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!). 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.
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!
We typically accept participants 12 years or older for intermediate trips, if they are accompanied by a legal guardian. You must be 18 years or older to attend a trip on your own.
Safety is paramount; always ensure your personal flotation device fits well before launching.
Protect your gear and electronics from splashes and unexpected capsizing with waterproof storage.
Following commands promptly helps navigate rapids efficiently and keeps the entire group safe.
Choose attire that dries fast and protects your feet from sharp rocks and cold water.
Clear Creek played an important role during Colorado's gold rush, serving as a key waterway for miners and transport.
Efforts in the Clear Creek area focus on protecting water quality and restoring native riparian vegetation to support local wildlife.
Required for safety and flotation during the entire rafting experience.
Keeps personal items dry even if the raft takes on water or capsizes.
Helps stay comfortable by drying rapidly and managing sweat and splashes.
summer specific
Protect feet from rocky riverbeds and improve stability on wet surfaces.