Looking for an unforgettable summer adventure in the heart of the Rockies? Summit County, Colorado, offers the perfect blend of scenic beauty and adrenaline-pumping action. With easy access to some of the best rivers in the state—including the Blue River, Arkansas River, Colorado River and Clear Creek—Summit County is a top destination for both first-time rafters and experienced paddlers.
Whether you’re planning a family-friendly float trip on the river or ready to dig in those paddles into technical class IV+ rapids, this guide will help you choose the perfect rafting trip and help you know what to expect when going whitewater rafting in Colorado. This guide will start with the beginner options for whitewater rafting rivers to Summit County and expand to the more advanced sections, which also tend to be further away. The blog will also explain why Summit County visitors and locals alike choose to go whitewater rafting on these rivers and give you a few tips on what to bring on your rafting tour.
Outdoor adventurers have been flocking to Summit County, Colorado for seasonal mountain activities for many decades. The Rocky Mountains tend to attract the adventurous and the curious in every season. In the winter, it’s the steady snowfall and steep slopes that draw skiers and snowboarders in from around the world. In the summer months, it’s the trails, rivers, and scenic beauty that bring in all types of visitors. As the snow melts on the mountain slopes, it makes its way into Colorado rivers, where adventurers get yet another chance to enjoy its bounty and beauty.
Whitewater rafting tours are a popular summer adventure activity in Summit County, and Performance Tours Rafting has been offering rafting trips in the area since 1986. Summit County’s proximity to some of Colorado’s most scenic and accessible rivers make it a natural basecamp for rafting adventures. The added bonus is that there are many other outdoor activities available in Summit County, like mountain biking, off-roading, ziplining, horseback riding, and more. But you don’t have to be an expert or advanced paddler to go whitewater rafting near Summit County, because the nearby rivers offer everything from mild and scenic floats to moderate rapids and even wild whitewater.
The best place to experience whitewater rafting in Summit County depends on what level of difficulty you are prepared to take on, current river conditions, and how far you are willing to travel. Rather than a geographic breakdown of the closest and furthest whitewater rafting areas near Summit County, we’ll start with the beginner rafting near Summit County, highlight some of the most popular moderate rafting options and of course I’ll include the bucket list adrenaline-fueled rafting sections as well.
Looking for a gentle introduction to whitewater rafting in or near Summit County? You’re in luck—just an hour’s drive north or south of the county, you’ll find two beginner-friendly river sections that offer beautiful scenery, splashy rapids, and fun for nearly all ages.
Roughly an hour south of Breckenridge, the Bear Creek section of the Arkansas River offers a relaxed and sunny rafting experience ideal for beginners and families. Located between the rafting towns of Buena Vista and Salida, this mellow Class I-II section features splashy rapids, long scenic floats, and generally warm, sunny weather throughout the summer. This part of Colorado is known for its ideal rafting climate—plenty of sunshine and great temperatures.
The nearby towns are also worth exploring. Both Buena Vista and Salida are hubs for outdoor adventure and offer a variety of restaurants, breweries, shops, and riverside parks to enjoy post-float. Performance Tours Rafting is one of the few outfitters offering trips on this section, and depending on current water conditions, they can accommodate kids as young as 4 years old (minimum 30 lbs).
About an hour north of Summit County, near the town of Kremmling, lies the Upper Colorado River, affectionately called the "Upper C" by locals. This stretch is known for its remote, high-desert scenery, gentle Class I-II rapids, and wide-open feel. It’s a popular destination not just for rafting, but also for fly fishing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
While the Upper C offers beautiful canyon walls, wildlife viewing, and crystal-clear water, it’s important to come prepared. The area is remote, with the nearest restaurants and stores often 30 minutes to an hour away from your launch or takeout point. Bring your own snacks, water, and anything else you’ll need for a day on the water.
If you're deciding between rafting the Bear Creek section of the Arkansas River or the Upper Colorado River near Kremmling, here’s how they compare:
Both river sections offer incredible beginner rafting experiences, but if you're looking for an easy, sunny, and scenic float with nearby towns to explore afterward, the Bear Creek section on the Arkansas River comes out on top. It’s a more relaxing, family-friendly option with fewer crowds, great weather, and convenient access to food, drink, and fun. For first-timers or anyone with younger kids, Bear Creek strikes the perfect balance of nature, excitement, and comfort.
If you're ready to level up from gentle floats to splashy Class III rapids, there are several moderate whitewater rafting options within easy driving distance of Summit County. These sections offer more excitement while still being accessible for adventurous first-timers, families with older kids, and anyone looking to experience Colorado’s classic whitewater thrills.
The Blue River is the only whitewater rafting section located within Summit County itself. This short but action-packed stretch offers a convenient and exciting trip for visitors based in Breckenridge, Frisco, Dillon, or Silverthorne.
This section of the Blue runs only when water is released from Dillon Reservoir—typically in late May through June, depending on snowpack and runoff. When flowing, the Blue delivers fast-paced Class III rapids surrounded by striking alpine scenery, including views of the Gore Range. Its quick drive time and short trip length (about 1.5 to 2 hours round trip) make it a favorite for visitors with limited time or those new to whitewater but eager for a bit more thrill.
Browns Canyon is one of the most iconic whitewater rafting destinations in the country—and it’s just about seventy-five minutes south of Summit County. This National Monument is famed for its Class III rapids, granite canyon walls, and breathtaking views of the Collegiate Peaks.
The Browns Canyon section offers a full day of adventure, mixing exciting rapids with calm stretches for swimming, snacking, and taking in the views. It's a great trip for groups, families with kids over age 7, or anyone ready to paddle through some of the best whitewater Colorado has to offer. Despite its popularity, Browns Canyon offers enough space to make the experience feel wild and immersive—though we do recommend getting out on a morning tour if you want to beat the peak summer crowds.
Located further south near Canon City, Bighorn Sheep Canyon is another moderate rafting section of the Arkansas River that’s well worth the drive—especially for those combining rafting with a trip to the Royal Gorge or other southern Colorado destinations.
This Class III stretch is known for frequent wildlife sightings (including—you guessed it—bighorn sheep) and continuous rapids that are exciting but not extreme. Warmer temperatures and early season access (often rafting from April through September) make this a solid shoulder-season pick as well. It’s a bit of a haul from Summit County—about 2 hours—but for travelers heading that way, it’s an excellent day trip option.
Here’s how the most popular moderate whitewater options compare:
If you're looking for the quintessential moderate rafting adventure near Summit County, Browns Canyon National Monument wins hands down. It combines thrilling rapids, unbeatable scenery, and a full day of immersion in Colorado's river culture. While the Blue River is unbeatable for convenience and Bighorn Sheep Canyon offers extended seasonal access, Browns Canyon strikes the perfect balance of accessibility, excitement, and unforgettable wilderness beauty.
If you're an experienced paddler—or a thrill-seeking first-timer in great physical condition ready to take on Colorado's most intense rapids—there are two must-raft sections you won’t want to miss: The Numbers and The Royal Gorge, both on the Arkansas River. These runs deliver serious whitewater, stunning scenery, and a full-body adrenaline rush.
The Numbers is a great section with technical and continuous stretches of Class IV–V whitewater in Colorado. Located just north of Buena Vista, about 1.5 hours from Summit County, this section earns its name from the way the rapids are numbered (Rapids 1 through 7… and beyond) instead of named.
This run is fast, cold, and continuous, featuring narrow chutes, steep drops, and boulder-strewn channels that demand tight maneuvers and strong paddling. The Numbers is not recommended for beginners or young children. It’s an adults only tour and it’s best suited for experienced rafters or first-timers who are confident in the water and ready for a workout. Outfitters offering trips on The Numbers usually require participants to be at least 16 years old and in good physical shape.
If you're up for a true bucket list rafting experience, head further south to the Royal Gorge, about 2.5 hours from Summit County. This Class IV+ section is famous for its jaw-dropping scenery as much as its challenging whitewater.
You’ll raft directly beneath the towering Royal Gorge Bridge—956 feet above the canyon floor—while navigating narrow, high-volume rapids like Sunshine Falls, Sledgehammer, and Boat Eater. The sheer canyon walls amplify the intensity of the rapids and create a thrilling, echoing backdrop.
Because of its powerful water and tight canyon lines, the Royal Gorge requires solid paddling teamwork and quick reactions. Most outfitters have strict age and experience requirements (typically 14+ or 16+ depending on flow conditions).
Bonus: The warmer temperatures and longer season here (often April–September) make it a great late-summer option when higher elevation rivers start to taper off.
If you're choosing just one advanced rafting trip near Summit County, the right pick depends on what kind of challenge you’re after. The Numbers is ideal for strong paddlers who want to push their skills on fast, technical whitewater. The Royal Gorge is the go-to for rafters craving big water, huge views, and a canyon experience like no other.
For sheer paddling intensity and proximity for advanced rafting near Summit County, The Numbers edges out as the top choice for whitewater purists. For a once-in-a-lifetime river run with heart-pounding rapids and iconic scenery, the Royal Gorge is unbeatable.
Now that you have an idea of the different difficulty levels and whitewater rafting tour options near Summit County, it’s time to start planning your trip. Whether you’re heading out on a mellow float or tackling big water in The Numbers or Royal Gorge, a little preparation goes a long way toward making your whitewater rafting experience smooth, safe, and unforgettable.
Most outfitters will provide the necessary safety gear—like helmets, life jackets, and paddles—but there are a few personal items you’ll want to bring along:
Performance Tours offers wet suits, splash jackets and booties for all rafting guests and has a variety of accessories—from sunglasses to sunscreen, hats and dry bags—available for purchase.
Rafting with a professional, licensed outfitter isn’t just a convenience—it’s essential. Certified, professionally trained river guides know how to read river conditions, lead you through technical sections, and respond quickly in case of an emergency. Be sure to:
Since 1986, Performance Tours Rafting has been guiding trips in Colorado for over 39 years and is fully licensed, insured, and staffed by experienced professionals committed to guest safety.
Summertime in Colorado is prime rafting season—and it’s popular for good reason. Trips can book up fast, especially in June and July when water levels peak and the weather is ideal. To ensure you get the section and time slot you want, it’s a good idea to reserve your trip early.
Check availability and dates to book a whitewater rafting tour online here or call 1-800-328-7238 to speak to a whitewater information specialist.
Whether you're planning a family-friendly float or chasing the thrill of Class V whitewater, Summit County puts you at the heart of Colorado’s best rafting adventures. From scenic half-day trips on the Blue River to high-adrenaline runs on the Arkansas River like Browns Canyon, The Numbers, and the Royal Gorge, there’s a trip for every experience level and every kind of river lover.
With easy access to multiple world-class rivers and top-rated outfitters ready to guide your journey, Summit County makes it simple to turn your next mountain vacation into an unforgettable rafting experience.
