Each June, Salida, Colorado, welcomes the roar of rushing water and the pulse of adrenaline at the FIBArk Whitewater Festival. Born as one of the first whitewater events in the U.S., this festival transforms the Arkansas River into a playground for paddlers, runners, and spectators alike. The water here doesn’t just flow—it dares you forward, challenging every skill level with its lively currents.

The centerpiece is the World Championship Whitewater Race, spanning roughly 10 miles of fierce rapids and calm stretches along the Arkansas River. The course winds through Salida’s forested banks, where cottonwoods and pines sway with the breeze, and the river’s voice alternates between soothing ripples and wild crashes. Spectators find vantage points on bridges and shorelines, feeling the spray and cheering as kayakers and rafters wrestle the current.

The festival isn’t only about racing. It’s a full weekend of adventure with slalom competitions, boater cross, and even a paddleboard race. Beyond the water, trails near the river invite runners to participate in the demanding FIBArk Downriver Run, an 8-mile course tracing the river’s path with an elevation drop that tests endurance and focus. The terrain for the run is mostly dirt trails and riverbanks with some rocky sections, offering glimpses of local wildlife such as river otters and occasional sightings of bald eagles cruising overhead.

Planning your visit means gearing up for a mix of sun, splash, and spirited crowds. Early summer temperatures hover comfortably between 70-85°F, but river spray and wind on the water can make it feel cooler. Waterproof gear and quick-dry layers are practical. Footwear with solid tread supports your footing on slick rocks and muddy banks.

Sleeping arrangements around Salida range from riverside campgrounds to cozy downtown inns. Arriving early is wise; the town buzzes with festival-goers, artists, and vendors, making each evening alive with music, local brews, and storytelling. Hydration is crucial if you’re joining the races or exploring the river trails—the Colorado sun shows no mercy even in mild weather.

If you’re paddling, know your limits. The Arkansas here is fiercely itself—sometimes calm and inviting, other moments a turbulent force that insists respect and preparation. For novices, guided raft trips offer safe exposure, while veteran paddlers can push their skills through the rapids classified up to Class IV.

This festival is as much about the community and spirit as it is about competition. It’s an invitation to engage with nature’s lively pulse, feel your heartbeat rise with each rapid, and savor the tangible thrill of being part of a river that lives with purpose and power. Come prepared, stay alert, and let the Arkansas challenge and surprise you—even beyond race day.