Looking for a heart-pounding river adventure? River Runners offers expert-guided whitewater rafting on The Numbers—Colorado’s most exciting rapid stretch. Perfect for thrill-seekers ready to conquer challenging rapids!
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical shape with strong paddling endurance.
Wildlife
History
The Numbers rapid section has been a pivotal part of Colorado’s whitewater heritage since the mid-20th century, drawing expert paddlers from around the world.
Conservation
River Runners emphasizes low-impact tourism and ongoing efforts to preserve the river’s natural flow and surrounding ecosystems.
River Runners
Looking for a heart-pounding river adventure? River Runners offers expert-guided whitewater rafting on The Numbers—Colorado’s most exciting rapid stretch. Perfect for thrill-seekers ready to conquer challenging rapids!
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.
Stay Secure in Your Gear
Ensure your life jacket and helmet are properly fitted before hitting the water.
Be Prepared for Quick Decisions
Listen carefully to safety instructions and stay alert during rapid navigation.
Check Water Levels Beforehand
Higher water levels can increase rapid difficulty; confirm conditions before your trip.
Bring a Change of Clothes
Have dry clothes on hand for after the trip to stay comfortable.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Vital for safety, providing buoyancy in rapid waters.
Helmet
Protects your head from rocks and impacts during rapid navigation.
Paddling Shoes
Avoid slipping and provide support when climbing in and out of the boat.
Wetsuit (if necessary)
Keeps you warm in cold water conditions.
spring,winter