About This Trip
Denver Rafting: Mild 2 hour 30 Minute Trip
Experience the perfect introduction to white water rafting near Denver on our Beginner Idaho Springs Town Run! This family-friendly 2.5-hour adventure takes you through the heart of historic Idaho Springs, just 30 minutes from Denver. Starting at Chicago Creek and ending at Kermit’s Access, you’ll navigate through exciting Class III rapids while enjoying stunning mountain views and fascinating gold rush history. Our professional guides will share stories about the area’s rich mining heritage, including the famous Argo Mine and the historic Charlie Taylor Water Wheel, all while ensuring your safety and enjoyment on the river.
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 as you navigate around exposed rocks. No matter when you join us, this 5-mile stretch provides approximately 2 hours of river time, making it perfect for families and first-time rafters ages 6 and up who want to experience the steepest white water rafting run with more rapids per mile than any other river near Denver!
- Conquer exciting Class III rapids including Castle Falls, Subway Rapid, and Dizzy Lizzy whil navigating the steepest white water rafting run 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.
- Explore historic sites like the Argo Mine/Mill (once the most profitable mine in the world) and Charlie Taylor Water Wheel.
- Wildlife: bighorn sheep, river otters, and bears.
- Enjoy a perfect white water rafting adventure for families and first-time rafters ages 6 and up
- 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+
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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 (available for rent)
- 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
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Wetsuits are required through Spring on this trip. We have rentals available!
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.
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All itineraries are subject to change due to water conditions and/or water levels.
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Due to limited put-ins and take-outs, all trip times can vary by half an hour.
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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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