Planning a getaway that trades the shadow of Pikes Peak for whitewater rapids? If you’re looking for the best Colorado Springs day trip, we’ve got the ticket. A scenic drive through the Rockies takes you to the Arkansas River, which is home to some of the best whitewater rafting on the entire planet.
Whether you’re a local in need of a quick weekend escape or a visitor looking to level up your Rocky Mountain vacation, heading west from the Springs to the river is an absolute must. Check out our full line-up of Arkansas River Rafting trips to find your paddle-powered trip!
Grab your water shoes, throw on some sunscreen, and let’s talk about how to turn your next weekend into an unforgettable adventure from Colorado Springs!
Why the Arkansas River is the Best Colorado Springs Day Trip
When people think of Colorado Springs, they usually think of Pikes Peak, the United States Air Force Academy, and hiking trails. But just about two hours west, near the lively mountain town of Buena Vista, the Arkansas River carves its way through steep canyons and sweeping valleys. It’s the most-rafted river in North America for a reason!
What makes an Arkansas River rafting trip the ideal Colorado Springs day trip?
- Close Enough for a Single Day: You don’t need a three-day weekend or a camping setup. You can easily drive out, tackle the rapids, enjoy scenic stops and restaurants along the way, and be back in town in time for dinner.
- Options for Everyone: Whether you’re looking for a first-time rafting experience with the kids or some of the biggest rapids in Colorado, we have a variety of trips ranging from Mild to Wild.
- Mind-Blowing Views: You’ll paddle below the towering Collegiate Peaks, a cluster of 14,000-foot mountains that make for an outrageous backdrop.
Choosing Your River Trip: Browns Canyon vs. The Numbers
When you head out on this Colorado Springs day trip, you’ve got two legendary river sections to choose from depending on the vibe you’re chasing.
1. Browns Canyon National Monument (Class III – For Multi-Generational Families)
If you’re looking for granite canyon scenery mixed with pool drop rapids, Browns Canyon is the reigning champ. Designated as a National Monument in 2015, this stretch takes you through one of the most dramatic river canyons in Colorado with numerous Class II and III rapids.
It’s exciting even for experienced rafters, but approachable enough for kids (typically ages 7+ depending on water levels) and first-timers. If you want the quintessential Colorado rafting experience, this is the crown jewel of your Colorado Springs day trip.
2. The Numbers (Class IV – For High Adventure Seekers)
Looking to amp up the intensity? Located just north of Buena Vista (conveniently adjacent to our office), The Numbers offers a fast, technical, and continuous stretch of whitewater that’ll keep you paddling non-stop.
You’ll navigate big drops, tight boulder fields, and rapid-fire waves. If you’re an active adult or adventurous teen looking for maximum thrills on your Colorado Springs day trip, step right up.
Cool Stops Along the Drive from Colorado Springs
Half the fun of a Colorado Springs day trip is the drive itself! US-24 West takes you out of the city and winds straight up into the mountains. Here are two fantastic spots to hit on your way out or on the cruise back home:
Garden of the Gods
If you’re visiting from out of town, start your morning early with a quick loop through Garden of the Gods right in the Springs. Watching the sunrise hit those 300-foot sandstone formations before you head up Highway 24 sets an incredible tone for the day. (Plus, the photo ops are off the charts).
Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
Located about an hour west of the Springs, this hidden gem is right along your route to the river. Take a quick pit stop at Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument to walk among massive petrified redwood stumps—some of the largest in the world—and check out ancient insect fossils preserved from tens of millions of years ago. It’s a unique stop that adds a little natural history to your experience.
How to Pack for Your Colorado Springs Day Trip
To make sure your Colorado Springs day trip goes off without a hitch, here’s a quick checklist of what you should wear and bring:
- Synthetic Clothing (No Cotton!): Cotton gets wet and stays cold. Go with quick-dry materials like polyester, nylon, or fleece.
- Secure Footwear: Shoes that strap firmly to your feet are a must. Water shoes, Chacos, Tevas, or an old pair of sneakers work great (no flip-flops allowed on the river!).
- Sun Protection: The high-altitude sunlight is no joke. Bring waterproof sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and cheap sunglasses with a retaining strap (so the river doesn’t keep them).
- Dry Clothes for After: Keep a towel and a set of dry clothes waiting in your car so you can change as soon as you get off the water.
Ready to Trade the Pavement for the Paddle?
You don’t have to take an overnight trip to experience the state’s best outdoor thrills. A day trip from Colorado Springs out to the Arkansas River gives you wild rapids, stunning alpine vistas, and memories to share with family and friends.
Whether you’re ready to splash through Browns Canyon or tackle the wild waves of The Numbers, our crew at Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours is here to make sure your day on the river is epic and loaded with laughs.
Book your Arkansas River trip!