About This Trip
Clear Creek Classic 2 hour 30 Minute Trip
Experience the Clear Creek Classic 2h 30m rafting trip. Fantastic for multi-generational families, experienced rafters, and unexperienced rafters alike, this classic Colorado rafting run delivers an engaging river experience. While a bit more mild compared to the intermediate section up river, theres plenty of excitement to be had in an hour on the water full of steady paddling, continuous class II rapids, and eight class III rapids. Starting at Chicago Creek and taking out at Kermits Access, the trip spans 5 miles through the heart of historic Idaho, Springs unfolding a float full of historic sites including the Argo Mine and the Charlie Taylor Water Wheel.
As a free-flowing river fed by snowmelt, Clear Creek’s character changes throughout the season. In mid-to-late June during high water, expect more thrilling waves and splashes, while the late-season offers a more technical experience requiring precise navigation around exposed rocks to shoot through narrow river channels!
- Conquer exciting Class III rapids including Castle Falls, Subway Rapid, and Dizzy Lizzy with more rapids per mile than any other river near Denver.
- Discover gold rush history where the first gold nugget was discovered at Chicago Creek.
- See historic sites like the Argo Mine/Mill (once the most profitable mine in the world) and Charlie Taylor Water Wheel.
- Spot Wildlife: bighorn sheep, river otters, and bears.
- Enjoy a white water rafting adventure great for families and less experienced outdoor adventurers.
- The most convenient white water rafting from Denver, Winter Park, and Breckenridge.
Itinerary & Map
* Please note that all itineraries are subject to change due to river conditions.
Booking Options
Standard Rafts
13 foot self-bailing rafts (up to 8 guests).
We use Oar Boats or Paddle Boats on these trips depending on water levels. Oar Boats, typically used at high water, come with a frame that give the guide more control with oars. With Paddle Boats, typically used at low water, the guide just has a paddle and relies on you to help get through the rapids!
- Ages 7+
Our Client Reviews from Google
Kelly Cornelius2025-08-31Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a fun 1/4 trip over Labor Day weekend! Caleb was our guide and he was great. Hoping to do a multi day in Moab and will request him as our guide! Kim Webb2025-08-31Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It was great, loved the jeep ride, we even saw a bear! I am so glad that we only did the train one way, it would have been a really long day if we had rode it both ways. It was really heard to pick the place to sit on the train trying to guess what the weather would be like, so far in advance. I wish we would have sat in the open air car , but I did see a lot of people standing up and may have blocked my view. Over all it was a great day!! Rusty Havener2025-08-30Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Lauren was an amazing guide... She was in charge and made us feel safe as well as having fun. 5 stars is not enough for her or the team Lacey Booth2025-08-29Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Did rafting today with Caleb as our tour guide. He is an epic guide and all though a short trip it was a lot of fun. Dennis Pocius2025-08-29Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. A great guide can really elevate a tour, especially when they go the extra mile To make sure everyone feels informed and safe. Kat clearly knows her stuff! Sarah Wethington2025-08-29Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 10/10 experience!! We rafted late in the summer and were only able to do the quarter day. Can’t wait to go back for more!! Corbin was a great guide for our family!! Laura Isaacson2025-08-29Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommend! Our guide Bella was amazing and gave us a lot of behind the scenes information we would have missed out on without the tour. We enjoyed our day with Bella! Laura Ulici2025-08-29Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a great time! Shout out to our guide Corbin! Hope you get that raffle prize
What are you waiting for? Call today (800) 567-6745 OR (970) 247-4789
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.
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.
What to Wear & Bring
- Swimsuit/Quick drying clothing (avoid cotton because it stays the temperature of the water and keeps you cold)
- Water shoes or secure sandals with heel straps (no flip flops or crocs!)
- Hat (that fits under your helmet)
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses with a strap
- Water bottle
- Camera with waterproof case
Trips from May through August
- Wetsuits (included)
- Wetsuit boots all season (available for rent)
- Fleece jacket and fleece socks (provides added warmth if you tend to get cold)
What To Wear On A Mountain Rafting Trip – Essential Rafting Attire
Important Considerations
Wetsuits are required through Spring on this trip, and are included in all reservations. Wetsuits boots are available to rent!
If you are rafting in May or June, bring extra layers of fleece or polypropylene for warmth. Wool socks under the wetsuit boots also help keep you warmer.
All itineraries are subject to change due to water conditions and/or water levels.
Due to limited put-ins and take-outs, all trip times can vary by half an hour.
This is a hands-on paddling trip! Be ready to navigate with your guide through this narrow canyon.
Plan Your Trip
FAQ
Camping
Getting To Telluride
First Timer's Guide
Off-Roading
Weather
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Package Adventures
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Enjoy a thrilling Clear Creek rafting trip in the morning, then challenge yourself on the Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata!
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Tackle the Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata in the morning and cool off with an exhilarating rafting trip on Clear Creek in the afternoon.
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Zip through Idaho Springs’ treetops in the morning and cool off with an exhilarating rafting trip on Clear Creek in the afternoon.
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Enjoy a thrilling Clear Creek rafting trip in the morning, then soar through the trees in the afternoon!