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Tips to a Great White Water Rafting Trip in Colorado (Part 1)

Colorado is filled with unbelievable river rafting and kayaking it can be hard to choose where to go on your next adventure. Luckily, Colorado’s oldest outfitting company has the experience, the knowledge, and the access to the best rivers in Colorado, Utah, Idaho, and beyond to customize any trip, anywhere, for anyone.

We already see record snowfall and not just in our mountain towns. This makes our paddling hands itch to get back on the river and take on world class whitewater. But with so many choices, just how do you choose? We’ve compiled a two-part series of questions and considerations that can help you narrow your choices and find the perfect white water rafting adventure.

The best whitewater rafting and kayaking adventures in Colorado

Royal Gorge on the Arkansas River will satisfy even the biggest high water, adrenaline seeking junkie. Experienced paddlers only.

Consider rafting and kayaking experience

The first thing you need to take into consideration is your skills on the river. Is this your first time, or have you already taking on Class V rapids. Even if you are a beginner, if you are athletic, fit, and an excellent swimmer, you may be ready to take on a more thrilling class III trip, especially if you’re looking to give yourself a bit of a challenge. But, if this is your first time, even if you can handle some more intense white water, you should also consider the length of your trip.

River rafting isn’t just sitting in a raft taking in the views and holding on tight when you hit the rapids. You need to be active, help your raftmates, pull your weight, be alert, and follow instructions from your guides. This can take a physical and mental toll on any rafter, beginner or advanced. You may only be ready for a few days on the river before your body says “enough.”

Book a trip with people who have the same rafting experience as yourself

The perfect family friendly rafting and kayaking adventure in Colorado

The Green River is perfect for families with kids of all ages. Ask us about Kids Go FREE trips.

You also need to look at the people you are traveling with, and if their physical fitness, adventurous spirit, and swimming abilities match yours. The trip should be geared towards the least experienced for maximum enjoyment.

Of course, if your want to rush the rapids full speed ahead, but you have more timid raftmates, you are going to conflict on the best river to raft. If your skill levels are too different, you may want to consider choosing different raftmates who share your love of adrenaline, and let timid rafters find their trip.

Customize your 2016 Colorado rafting adventure with Dvorak Expeditions

Each river is different, and they chance with every season. Talk to the guides at Dvorak about your wish list for your rafting trip and let them help you customize it so that you get everything you wanted. Not just regarding rapids and white water, but also regarding the type of scenery you would love to see if you want to go for a hike, bike, or climb. Or if you want to spend some time SUPing on quiet waters before chilling at the camp with gourmet local meals and beverages.

The right outfitter can help you choose the right river, the right guide, the right class so that you get an unforgettable experience on one of the many rivers in Colorado.

Next…more considerations for the perfect Colorado rafting trip