Idaho Springs Guided Rafting Trips
Raft the steep, technical waters of Clear Creek for an unforgettable Colorado adventure right in the heart of Idaho Springs. As the closest world class whitewater to the Front Range, Idaho Springs rafting offers an exhilarating experience packed into a convenient 2.5 hour or 4.5 hour trip.
Whether you’re a first timer looking for the splashy Clear Creek Classic (our signature ‘Gold Rush’ style trip) or an adrenaline junkie ready to tackle the Advanced/Intermediate Rafting Trip on the continuous ‘Upper Clear Creek’ section, our Idaho Springs outpost (formerly Geo Tours) is your gateway to the canyon’s thrills. Explore historic mining scenery while navigating famous rapids like Phoenix and Outer Limits that make Clear Creek a Colorado legend.
- Multiple guided trip options only 30 minutes from Denver.
- Conquer exciting Class III & Class IV rapids like Castle Falls (Class III), Deliverance (Class IV), and Outer Limits (Class IV).
- Discover gold rush heritage at the Chicago Creek discovery site.
- Spot local wildlife including bighorn sheep, river otters, and bears.
- Float by historical sites including the Argo Mine (once the most profitable mine in the world) and the Charlie Taylor Water Wheel.
More About Idaho Springs Rafting
River Conditions and Seasonality
Gushing from the peaks of Loveland Pass and down the east face of the Continental Divide, Clear Creek boasts some of Colorado’s most renowned whitewater. Because Clear Creek is a free flowing river fed by snowmelt, water levels fluctuate throughout the season, providing a unique experience every time you hit the river. During the high water season, which typically begins in late May and lasts through mid-June, the river becomes fast and powerful, offering the peak water flows for adrenaline seekers. As the run off tapers in late June and July, the rapids become more defined, requiring precise technical maneuvers to navigate the canyon’s drops. While flows are lower in August, the Clear Creek rafting conditions remain excellent for an engaging and scenic trip through the historic mining district of Idaho Springs. Whether you are visiting in high water rafting season or looking for a late summer adventure, our guides are experts at navigating these changing flows to ensure the best white water rafting experience near the Front Range.
Visit the USGS website to view historical and real time water flow data on Clear Creek near Idaho Springs.
Trip OptionsÂ
The Geo Tours Legacy on Clear Creek
The History
Location, Location, Location
What to Wear and Bring
- Avoid Cotton: Wear quick drying synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, or spandex; avoid cotton as it stays wet and cold.
- Base Layer: Opt for a swimsuit or board shorts as your primary layer.
- Secure Footwear: Wear shoes with a heel strap, such as river sandals or old tennis shoes; flip-flops and Crocs are prohibited as they float away.
- Sun Protection: Apply waterproof sunscreen and wear polarized sunglasses to protect against high altitude glare. Sunglasses straps are available for purchase in the gift shop to keep them secure during your trip.
- Eyewear Retainer: Use a strap (like Chums or Croakies) to keep sunglasses or prescription glasses secure.
- River Equipment: We provide all the necessary river equipment, including a Coast Guard approved Type V Personal Flotation Device (PFD) and a helmet.
- Headwear: A baseball cap or visor can be worn under your helmet for extra sun protection.
- Hydration: Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the trip.
- Medical Needs: Ensure you have any necessary personal medications, such as inhalers or EpiPens, on hand. Please to inform your guide of an pre existing medical conditions before putting on the river.
- Post Trip Essentials: Keep a towel and a full change of dry clothes in your car for a comfortable drive to your next location. Changing rooms are available on site.
- Valuables: We recommend locking all your valuables in your car while we store your keys while you’re out on the river. Phones are permitted, however we are not responsible for damage or loss.
For more information on what to wear and bring continue to our full what to wear and bring page.
Trip Options
Idaho Springs Rafting Trips
Idaho Springs, CO
1h on water, 2h 30m meet to return.
- Adult (12+): $79
- Youth (7-11): $74
Idaho Springs, CO
1h on water, 2hr 30m meet to return.
- Adult (Ages 15+): $89
Idaho Springs, CO
3h 15m on water, 4h 30m meet to return. Lunch included!
- Adult (15+): $189
Package Options
Idaho Springs, CO
Zip through Idaho Springs’ treetops in the morning and cool off with an exhilarating rafting trip on Clear Creek in the afternoon.
Idaho Springs, CO
Enjoy a thrilling Clear Creek rafting trip in the morning, then soar through the trees in the afternoon!
Idaho Springs, CO
Enjoy a thrilling Clear Creek rafting trip in the morning, then challenge yourself on the Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata!
Idaho Springs, CO
Tackle the Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata in the morning and cool off with an exhilarating rafting trip on Clear Creek in the afternoon.
Why Raft Clear Creek with Mild to Wild?
Trip Provisions
- Onsite bathrooms and changing rooms
- 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
- Certified in CPR & First Aid
- Pay incentives for higher certification levels including WFR, EMT, & Swift Water Rescue
- 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
Day Trips: Receive a full refund with written notice 24 hours or more before the trip. Less notice, no refund.
Trip Change Option
Up to 12 hours prior to departure, trips can be rescheduled for a different day and/or time. The price of this change policy is 5% of the total trip cost. Upgrade only available at time of reservation and must be applied to each seat.
Trip Departure Policy
We reserve the right to switch river/locations based on current conditions and a minimum number of participants. This trip requires 4 participants or paid seats to depart.
Idaho Springs White Water Rafting FAQs
When is the best time to raft Clear Creek?
The best time to raft Clear Creek is typically June and July. For adrenaline seekers, the peak snowmelt in mid-to-late June offers fast, powerful water and thrilling Class IV splashes. If you’re looking for a more technical, rock-and-roll style of rafting where precision maneuvering is key, the slightly lower flows of July and August provide a fantastic and engaging challenge.
When can I raft Clear Creek in Idaho Springs?
Our Clear Creek season is short and sweet, typically running from mid-May through mid-August. Because the creek is entirely dependent on natural snowmelt from the surrounding peaks, the season can vary slightly each year. We offer multiple daily departures for our Classic (Class III) and Advanced/Intermediate (Class IV) trips during this window.
What is the minimum age to raft Clear Creek?
The minimum ages on Clear Creek vary by the section of the river:
- Clear Creek Classic (Class III): 7 years old (and at least 50 lbs). The Minimum age may increase during high water peaks in June.
- Clear Creek Advanced (Class IV): 15 years old.
Do I need to know how to swim to go rafting on Clear Creek?
For our beginner level trips like the Clear Creek Classic, you do not need to be a strong swimmer. Every guest is fitted with a Type V Coast Guard approved personal flotation device (PFD) designed to keep your head above water. However, for our Intermediate and Advanced trips on the Upper Clear Creek section, we strongly recommend that participants have strong swimming abilities and are comfortable in moving water.
What should I wear and bring on my Clear Creek rafting trip?
Clear Creek is a high-altitude, snow-fed stream, so staying warm is our top priority! We provide complimentary wetsuits and splash jackets for all guests. We recommend:
- Clothing: A swimsuit or synthetic base layers (like polyester or spandex) to wear under your wetsuit. Avoid cotton, as it will make you colder once wet.
- Footwear: Secure water shoes or sandals with a heel strap. Wetsuit boots are also available for rent at our Idaho Springs office.
- Essentials: Polarized sunglasses with a retention strap (like Chums), waterproof sunscreen, and a hat that fits comfortably under a helmet.Â
You can find a detailed list of what to wear and bring here.
Is white water rafting on the Clear Creek River safe?
White water rafting is an inherently dangerous activity with risks that cannot be entirely eliminated. As a result, we require all guests to sign a liability waiver and assumption of risk before departing. However, your experience is our top priority. To minimize risk, we employ professional guides that exceed state training requirements and trip leaders that average 2,000 river miles of experience. We utilize quality and well maintained self bailing rafts, U.S. Coast Guard approved personal floatation devices, and helmets.
What happens if it rains on the day of my trip?
Rafting is a “rain or shine” activity! You are going to get wet regardless, and many rafters find that the Rocky Mountain rain can add to the adventure! We provide thermal river rafting equipment like wetsuits and splash tops to keep you warm during your trip!
How far is the Idaho Springs outpost from Denver?
Our Idaho Springs location is the most convenient rafting destination for those staying in the city. We are located just 30 miles west of downtown Denver, which is typically a quick 30 to 45 minute drive via I-70. This makes it easy to fit a world class whitewater adventure into a single day trip!
Should I tip my rafting guide?
Tipping is never required but is always greatly appreciated if you enjoyed your adventure! Much like the service industry, our guides work hard to ensure an enjoyable experience. A standard gratuity is typically 15-20% of your trip cost, similar to a restaurant.
Do you provide a meal on the full day (4.5hr) Clear Creek rafting trip?
Yes, our Clear Creek Advanced/Intermediate Full Day Trip includes a delicious riverside lunch, so you can refuel and relax before tackling the next section of the river.
More Reading and Videos
Meet Location & Directions
- Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours - Idaho Springs
- 970-247-4789
- 431 Chicago Creek Rd, Idaho Springs, CO 80452