Vail, Colorado in the summer is a special place. If you’ve decided to vacation in Vail, Colorado then you probably know that there are many summer activity options available. From hiking and biking to fly fishing and scenic gondola rides, there truly is something for everyone. But, if you’re searching for whitewater rafting in Vail, you might be surprised to learn the town itself doesn’t have raftable rivers running through it.
Still, don’t cross whitewater rafting off your list just yet. Vail’s central location makes it an excellent basecamp for reaching some of Colorado’s best whitewater rivers, many within an hour or two drive.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
Some of Colorado’s most scenic and exciting whitewater rafting adventures are located just a short driving distance from Vail. This blog lists the top whitewater rafting adventures, prioritizing the most popular Vail rafting trips to help you plan for the best possible rafting experience during your Vail summer vacation.
With tour options for all ages, from mellow family floats to wild whitewater rapids, the Arkansas River offers some of the best whitewater rafting near Vail. Most trips meet in Buena Vista, CO, a scenic 1 hour and 20 minute drive from Vail, making Buena Vista the perfect Vail day trip destination. The Arkansas River winds through downtown Buena Vista and Salida, making whitewater rafting is the #1 activity in the area.
Browns Canyon is one of Colorado’s most popular whitewater rafting destinations—and for good reason. Designated a National Monument in 2015, this remarkable area is home to diverse wildlife, striking granite formations, and rich cultural history. The Arkansas River flows through the heart of Browns Canyon, offering ideal conditions for unforgettable rafting adventures. With a thrilling mix of class II-III rapids and stunning scenery, it’s perfect for families, friends, beginners, and seasoned paddlers alike. There’s truly something for everyone in Browns Canyon National Monument. Learn more about whitewater rafting in Browns Canyon National Monument.
Just north of Buena Vista, the Numbers section of the Arkansas River offers one of Colorado’s most thrilling whitewater experiences. Here, the river narrows and winds through a maze of boulders, creating the fast, technical class IV+ rapids that make the Numbers legendary among adrenaline seekers. This advanced rafting tour is for adults only (ages 16+), and while prior rafting experience isn’t required, all participants must be strong swimmers in good physical condition and capable of self-rescue. Perfect for thrill-seeking groups like bachelor parties or team-building adventures, this tour is ideal for those ready to take their rafting to the next level. Learn more about taking on the adrenaline-pumping rapids on the Numbers.
South of Browns Canyon, as the Arkansas River flows toward the town of Salida, guests can enjoy a gentle and scenic stretch of water we call “Bear Creek”—named after one of the many streams feeding into the river. This section features mellow class I-II rapids, offering light splashes and sweeping views of the stunning Collegiate Peaks. Ideal for families, Bear Creek is a relaxed float suitable for children as young as 4 years old and 30 pounds, though minimum age requirements may vary depending on water levels. It’s the perfect introduction to rafting in a breathtaking mountain setting and the best option for family rafting near Vail. Learn more about family river floats on the Arkansas River, Bear Creek.
If you're looking for fun, moderate whitewater close to Vail, the Blue River is a fantastic choice. Located less than an hour away, this high-alpine river features splashy class II-III rapids set against the scenic backdrop of the Gore Range. It’s a great option for families, first-timers, and anyone seeking an exciting half-day rafting adventure.
The Blue River is an express, half-day tour that's especially popular with visitors to Summit and Eagle Counties—when water levels allow. Rafting on this stretch depends on snowpack from the previous winter and water releases from Lake Dillon, making it an ideal early-season trip, typically available in June and occasionally into July.
As the spring sun hits Vail Mountain, its snowmelt flows into the Eagle River, creating a truly thrilling early summer rafting experience, just minutes from Vail. The Upper Eagle River is an advanced stretch for whitewater, offering technical, continuous class IV rapids. The Eagle River is one of few wild rivers in America, with no dams or controlled releases managing its flow. As such rafting the Eagle River is not always available during below-average snow years and when there are flows to support rafting the season typically runs from May through late June.
The Colorado River offers a range of whitewater rafting experiences, with the Upper Colorado near Kremmling standing out as a top choice for families and nature lovers. Just 45 minutes to an hour from Vail, this scenic stretch features gentle class I–III rapids, perfect for a relaxing float with plenty of splashy fun. The wide, calm sections are ideal for wildlife viewing and photography, while nearby hot springs add to the appeal. Whether you're a first-time rafter or simply looking to soak in Colorado’s natural beauty, the Upper Colorado delivers a laid-back adventure for all ages. Learn more about the half-day Colorado River float trip.
Clear Creek, just over an hour from Vail near Idaho Springs, offers a convenient and exciting option for those looking for more technical whitewater. The intermediate section features steady class III-IV rapids, including stretches like Deliverance and Phoenix Holes, making it a solid choice for paddlers with some experience or those ready to take on a challenge. Set in a scenic canyon and easily accessed from I-70, Clear Creek is a popular half-day trip for visitors from Denver, Summit County, and beyond—no need to travel far for a quick dose of adventure.Learn more about Clear Creek rafting trips in Colorado.
While there may not be rafting right in the heart of Vail, the good news is that some of Colorado’s most iconic whitewater adventures are just a scenic drive away. Whether you’re chasing the wild Class IV+ rapids of The Numbers or looking for a relaxing float like Bear Creek with the whole family, there’s a perfect trip waiting nearby. With multiple half-day and full-day options available, it’s easy to fit a rafting tour into your summer vacation itinerary.
Performance Tours has been guiding unforgettable whitewater rafting trips since 1986. With convenient access to rivers like the Arkansas, Blue, and Colorado, and a reputation for safety and fun, we’re here to help you experience the best rafting Colorado has to offer — all within reach of Vail.
