Take on the Arkansas River’s exciting Fractions rapids with Collegiate Peaks Rafting in Buena Vista, Colorado. Perfect for all ages, this trip combines thrilling waves, scenic views, and expert guidance for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a basic level of fitness and be comfortable sitting and paddling for a couple of hours.
Wildlife
History
The Arkansas River was once a vital route during the Colorado Gold Rush and remains central to regional recreation and conservation efforts.
Conservation
Collegiate Peaks Rafting emphasizes Leave No Trace practices and works to minimize environmental impact on the river ecosystem.
Collegiate Peaks Rafting
Take on the Arkansas River’s exciting Fractions rapids with Collegiate Peaks Rafting in Buena Vista, Colorado. Perfect for all ages, this trip combines thrilling waves, scenic views, and expert guidance for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Collegiate Peaks Rafting operates guided whitewater rafting trips on Colorado’s Arkansas River, offering a range of experiences from calm family floats to technical class IV runs. Founded to share safe, memorable river days, the company runs six distinct trips — Family Float, The Numbers, The Fractions, Browns Canyon, Bighorn Sheep Canyon / Royal Gorge, and an additional option listed as Unknown — that accommodate first-timers, families, and experienced paddlers. Guides are professionally trained in swiftwater rescue, CPR, and American Whitewater safety protocols, and boats use industry-standard safety equipment to ensure reliable, responsible river travel. Trips vary in length and intensity: quick 2-hour adrenaline runs through Royal Gorge-style canyons, scenic class II–III floats for kids and mixed-ability groups, and full-day 8-hour excursions through Browns Canyon with a custom fajita lunch. Vehicles, equipment, and lunch logistics are managed to keep days on the river streamlined and focused on the experience. Emphasis on local river knowledge, experienced guides, and clear pre-trip communication helps minimize risk while maximizing enjoyment. Customer reviews and repeat bookings reflect consistent attention to safety, skillful river reading, and friendly guide teams. Whether the goal is a relaxed family outing or a high-energy whitewater challenge, Collegiate Peaks Rafting provides tailored trip options, transparent difficulty ratings, and the regional expertise needed for adventurous, comfortable days on the Arkansas River.
Specific trip highlights include seven miles of rapids on the Bighorn Sheep Canyon / Royal Gorge run, signature features like S‑turn and Frog Rock on The Fractions, and 1100‑foot canyon walls along Browns Canyon.
Tours Offered
6
Range of family to expert runs
Trip Lengths
2–8 hours
Short scenic floats to full-day trips
Rapid Difficulty
Class II–IV
Gentle family runs to intense rapids
Lunch Included
Custom fajita lunch
Provided on Browns Canyon trip
Reserve a trip for family fun or high-octane whitewater — availability fills fast.
Wear a Properly Fitted Life Jacket
Ensure your life jacket fits snugly to keep you safe through rapids and unexpected falls.
Bring Quick-Drying Clothes
Dress in synthetic layers that dry fast to stay comfortable during and after your rafting trip.
Use Sunscreen Even on Cloudy Days
Water reflects UV rays, so apply waterproof sunscreen to protect your skin throughout the trip.
Listen Carefully to Your Guide
Following the guide’s instructions ensures safety and helps you better enjoy the rapids.
Waterproof Sunscreen
Protects your skin from intense UV rays reflected by water.
summer
Quick-Dry Clothing
Keeps you comfortable by drying rapidly during and after rafting.
Water Shoes
Provides grip and protects feet from rocky riverbeds.
Warm Layer (Fleece or Thermal)
Helpful for cooler mornings and windy conditions on the river.
spring