Kick off your Colorado adventure with a family-friendly raft trip on the Arkansas River. Perfect for kids and beginners, this float combines gentle rapids with stunning mountain views—an experience everyone will enjoy. Join River Runners for a scenic, safe, and splashy family adventure that transforms water fun into lifelong memories.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Open to all ages and fitness levels, minimal physical effort needed
Wildlife
History
The Arkansas River has been a vital part of Colorado’s cultural history, supporting both indigenous communities and local commerce for centuries.
Conservation
River guides promote Leave No Trace principles to maintain the river’s pristine condition for future generations.
River Runners
Kick off your Colorado adventure with a family-friendly raft trip on the Arkansas River. Perfect for kids and beginners, this float combines gentle rapids with stunning mountain views—an experience everyone will enjoy. Join River Runners for a scenic, safe, and splashy family adventure that transforms water fun into lifelong memories.
River Runners is a Buena Vista, Colorado outfitter specializing in guided whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River. The company offers a diverse lineup of half-day and full-day experiences that serve families, beginners, and advanced paddlers. Signature routes include Browns Canyon National Monument, the Royal Gorge, Bighorn Sheep Canyon, and the Numbers section, covering river sections with Class II through Class V rapids.
Trip options range from the gentle Family Float, a four-mile guided raft with splashy Class II rapids, to challenging runs like the Royal Gorge Half Day and the Numbers adventures that navigate Class IV–V whitewater. Several Browns Canyon and Bighorn Sheep full-day trips include catered riverside lunches, and the Browns Canyon full-day intermediate tour specifies deli-style lunch, provided gear, and transportation from the take-out back to the River Runners Browns Canyon outpost.
Professional river guides lead each excursion, delivering safety briefings, paddling instruction, and local route knowledge. River Runners operates from a riverside Buena Vista outpost and departs for trips that showcase Colorado canyon scenery and Sawatch Mountain views. Trip descriptions list difficulty ratings and recommended experience levels; many half-day options state “no experience necessary,” making those trips accessible for first-timers and families.
Reservation details, departure times, age recommendations, and equipment lists are available through River Runners’ booking channels. Booking online secures seats on specific dates and helps plan logistics for larger groups.
Tours Offered
10
Multiple sections and durations
Location
Buena Vista, CO
On the Arkansas River
Family Friendly
Yes
Options for beginners and kids
Meals Included
Select full days
Catered riverside lunches available
Secure a spot on a half-day or full-day Arkansas River trip — family floats, Browns Canyon runs, Royal Gorge thrills, and Numbers whitewater await.
Secure footwear
Wear closed-toe shoes that stay on your feet for safety and comfort during the float.
Use sun protection
Apply sunscreen and wear hats to protect against sun exposure while on the water.
Bring waterproof gear
Pack waterproof bags for electronics and personal items to keep them dry.
Arrive early
Get there 15-30 minutes ahead to check in and listen to safety briefing.
Quick-drying clothes
Wear lightweight, quick-drying clothing suitable for getting wet.
summer
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from sun rays during sunny days.
summer
Sunglasses with strap
Prevent glare and keep glasses secure during the float.
summer
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during your adventure.