Buena Vista Guided Rafting
Buena Vista is the premier white water rafting destination in Colorado, offering the best access to the diverse sections of the Arkansas River. Located at the base of the Collegiate Peaks, the area provides two distinct river experiences: the classic Class III rapids of Browns Canyon National Monument for families and first timers, and the technical, fast paced Class IV drops of The Numbers for those looking for a bigger challenge. With guided trips ranging from 1/2 day to 3 day expeditions, there is a stretch of river here for every adventurer 7 and older.
- Family friendly and high adventure trip options.
- 1/2, 1, 2, & 3 day trip options.
- Alpine river canyon views with 14,000ft peak backdrops.
- Wild life spotting like golden eagles, brown trout, and elk.
- Optimal water flows all summer long from recreational reservoir releases.
- Company division dedicated to risk management, guide training, and continuing guide education.
More About Rafting in Buena Vista
Trip option details
Browns Canyon National Monument, composes a thirteen mile stretch of the Arkansas River beginning at Fisherman’s Bridge and ending at Stone Bridge. The section contains fourteen named Class II–III rapids such as Zoom Flume, Pinball, and Staircase. Daily trip options include a half day and full day trip. The half day trip covers eight miles and the full day trips span the 13 mile canyon stopping for a riverside lunch midway. The Browns Canyon multi-day option spans 2 days with 1 night camping in the river canyon.
The Numbers delivers Colorado’s most consistent and technical Class IV whitewater. The six mile main section drops roughly seventy feet per mile from the Numbers Put-In to Railroad Bridge, featuring 6 big drop class IV rapids. For full day trips, the adventure continues downstream through The Fractions, adding another 7 miles of Class II–III whitewater for a change of pace and stunning scenery after lunch. Half day trips focus entirely on the core rapids for those who want maximum action in a short time. Multi day expeditions begin here as well, combining the Numbers with Browns Canyon, the Royal Gorge, and Bighorn Sheep Canyon for 2 or 3 day options.
| Trip Name | Intensity | Best For… | Min. Age |
|---|---|---|---|
| Browns Canyon | Class III (Moderate) | Families & First-Timers | 7+ |
| The Numbers | Class IV (High Adventure) | Thrill-Seekers & Athletic Groups | 15+ |
To learn more about rafting on the Arkansas River visit the Arkansas River Rafting page or visit the Colorado White Water Rafting page to see more trips in the state.
River Conditions and Seasonality
During the early season, flows range between 1,500 and 3,000 CFS, producing powerful whitewater and cooler water temperatures around 45-50°F. By July and August, flows hold between 700 and 1,200 CFS, and water temperatures typically rise to 55-60°F, ideal for family trips and full day adventures. Warm temperatures, clear skies, and minimal humidity define the rafting season, with average highs in the 80s and 90s.
Local Culture and History
Founded in 1879 as a mining supply hub, Buena Vista has always been shaped by the Arkansas River. The river corridor once filled with ore and freight on the Tennessee Pass Rail Line now draws visitors from around the world to raft, fish, and explore. The town’s historic Main Street preserves its 19th-century architecture while embracing a vibrant outdoor culture. Locally owned restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, and outdoor gear outfitters fill the downtown blocks for a charming, laid back, and welcoming feel.
Trip Options
Buena Vista Daily Rafting Trips
Arkansas River
Get ready to experience the best of Colorado on a Brown’s Canyon half-day trip. This family-friendly adventure rushes you down the Arkansas River and through Browns Canyon National Monument and exciting class III rapids.
Arkansas River
The full-day Browns Canyon Sizzler represents the ultimate Colorado rafting experience! This trip offers a full day of classic white water rafting through class III rapids on the Arkansas River, complete with a riverside deli style lunch.
Arkansas River
The quintessential Colorado whitewater rafting experience. If you are an experienced rafter looking to take it to the next level or an adventurous beginner up for a new challenge, the Numbers rafting trip is the perfect exhilarating adventure.
Arkansas River
The full-day Numbers rafting trip is packed full with some of the most famous Class III-IV rapids on the Arkansas river, and includes a riverside deli style lunch.
Buena Vista Multi Day Rafting Trips
Browns Canyon National Monument
Numbers & Royal Gorge
Browns Canyon, Numbers, & Royal Gorge
Why Raft in Buena Vista with Mild to Wild?
Trip Provisions
- Onsite bathrooms, changing rooms, and free parking
- Gift shop for your last minute needs
- Action photos of your trip available for purchase
- Neoprene wetsuits provided & boots available for rent
- Custom, quality, & Coast Guard approved river equipment
- Round trip transportation from meet location
Professional, Interpretive & Entertaining Guides
- Trip leaders average 2,000 river miles
- Trip leaders are 3rd year guides on average
- All guides are certified in First Aid and CPR
- Most guides certified in Swift Water Rescue, and Wilderness First Aid, Wilderness Advanced First Aid, or Wilderness First Responder
- Dedicated company division to risk management, guided training, and continuing guide education
Our Commitment
to You
Payments & Cancellations
Payment Options
- 1/2 down, 1/2 charged 30 days prior to trip.
- 1/3 down with remaining balance charged in thirds.
- Call for other arrangements!
Free Courtesy Hold
We don’t want you to miss out on this trip so we’ll hold your spots, payment-free, for 24hrs while you make your final arrangements & prepare for payment.
Fees
In addition to the listed trip cost, we collect an additional 9% for River and Land Access Fees (ie. Forest Service, BLM, City, Private Land Use).
Cancellation Policy
- Receive a 90% refund with written notice 36 hours or more before the trip. Less notice, no refund.
Buena Vista Rafting FAQs
Where do we meet for rafting in Buena Vista?
All trips meet at our Buena Vista outpost located at 40671 US-24, Buena Vista, CO 81211. Please arrive at your scheduled trip time to check in, meet your guides, and get fitted for gear.
Which trip is better for families: Browns Canyon or The Numbers?
For families with kids ages 7 and older, Browns Canyon is the top choice. It offers class III rapids and beautiful scenery in a National Monument. The Numbers is a high adventure Class IV section best suited for thrill seekers and guests 15 and older who are ready for a fast paced paddling experience.
What should I wear for rafting in Buena Vista?
We recommend quick dry clothing like polyester or nylon (no cotton). For footwear, you need shoes that stay on your feet, like river sandals with a heel strap or old sneakers. We have river shoes available to rent. Visit our full What to Wear and Bring page for more info.
Do I need to know how to swim to go rafting?
While being comfortable in the water is helpful, you do not need to be a strong swimmer for our Class 3 trips like Browns Canyon. Every guest is outfitted with a Coast Guard approved personal floatation device (PFD) and receives a safety orientation before hitting the water. For the more technical rapids in The Numbers, swimming ability is necessary.
When is the best time of year to raft the Arkansas River in Buena Vista?
he season runs from May through Labor Day. June offers the most excitement during peak snowmelt runoff. July through August 15th provide very consistent water levels and warmer weather thanks to the voluntary flow management program on the Arkansas River, making it the ideal time for multi generational family trips.
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Meet Location & Directions
- Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours
- 970-247-4789
- 40671 US-24, Buena Vista, CO 81211
- Get Directions