Beat the crowds, scope wildlife & plan the best early season Colorado raft trip

Colorado’s rafting season officially kicks off around May 1, but the busy summer tourist season doesn’t start picking up until after Memorial Day. Seasoned whitewater rafting enthusiasts know that early season is the best time to be on the river. These early season rafting secrets will help you plan the best May raft trip in Colorado!

1. Less Crowds

Around Memorial Day, the crowds typically start to make their way to the mountains to celebrate summer. Shortly after that schools go on summer vacation and families will flock to the high country. Fewer people on the river mean more peace and quiet time to soak up the wonderful sights and sounds of nature.

2. More Wildlife Activity

Animal lovers rejoice! Wildlife activity begins to increase in early summer and late spring. It’s not uncommon for guests to see mule deer, and bighorn sheep and some lucky paddlers might see the occasional elk while rafting in the early season. In fact, the Browns Canyon section of the Arkansas River was designated a National Monument in 2015 partly because of the abundant wildlife in the area.

3. Check the Forecast

Weather in Colorado varies minute-by-minute and sometimes mile-by-mile – especially in April and May! When it is raining or snowing in Summit County, it could be sunny and dry in Browns Canyon National Monument. If it’s damp in Buena Vista, it could be 75 and sunny in the Royal Gorge. If you’re worried about the forecast, give us a call. There are a few things we can do to make your early season experience more comfortable.

4. Get the Gear

High altitude rafting means our rivers are filled with snowmelt coming off some of the highest peaks in Colorado. In April and May, we recommend getting the gear to prepare for colder water and changing conditions. Opt for the wetsuit, splash jacket, and bootie rentals. Bring additional layers made from quick-dry outdoor materials like wool, fleece, micro-fleece, polyester, and waterproof layers. Guides can store your layers in dry bags on the boats. It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it!

5. Have Fun!

Stoke level is at an all-time high in the early season, and our excitement is contagious. Rafting is fun in every season, at every water level, and on every river. Pack your sense of adventure, and a great attitude, and jump in the boat with one of our professional whitewater guides.