Adventure enthusiasts and river runners have reason to celebrate as the Denver Water Board has announced increased flow projections on the Blue River, setting the stage for a great rafting season in Summit County, Colorado.
The outflow from Dillon Reservoir into the Blue River marks the return of commercial rafting operations in Summit County, CO. Thanks to a healthy winter snowpack and above-average precipitation, Dillon Reservoir is nearly full. Once filled, water released to the Blue River will support thrilling rafting experiences, marking a significant milestone for whitewater enthusiasts.
According to Denver Water’s most recent Dillon Reservoir Operations Update from May 24, 2024, “A late spring storm brought a significant amount of precipitation and caused snowpack above Dillon Reservoir to re-peak at 127% of normal on May 13, the second latest snowpack we have seen since records began in the late 1970s. As a result, even though we typically see runoff peak in the first week of June, there is a good chance it will peak in the last week of the month this year.”
The length of the Blue River’s commercial rafting season depends on several factors monitored by the Denver Water Board, including temperature, weather conditions, and the Front Range’s water needs. Current predictions indicate that commercial rafting trips on the Blue River will run through the early weeks of summer.
Performance Tours is excited to announce the return of commercial Blue River rafting trips, providing adventure seekers with an unforgettable experience. Once flows consistently exceed 500 cubic-feet-per-second (CFS), Performance Tours will offer two half-day trip options for guests, meeting at 9:30 am and 1:15 pm at Pioneer Sports in Frisco, CO.
The Blue River offers a moderate-level rafting adventure with spectacular alpine scenery beneath The Eagles Nest Wilderness Area, views of the Gore Range, and exciting class 3 rapids through Boulder Canyon. Ideal for individuals at least 7 years old and 50 lbs, this express tour covers several miles of exhilarating whitewater in under 2 hours, providing a thrilling adventure for paddlers on a tight schedule.
In addition to the Blue River, Performance Tours will continue to offer their renowned rafting trips on the Arkansas River in Buena Vista and Cañon City, ensuring an unforgettable adventure for visitors throughout the summer season until Labor Day. Browns Canyon National Monument, with its moderate class 3 rapids, and the Royal Gorge's legendary class 4+ rapids, will be among the highlights of these thrilling whitewater experiences.