Updated: April 10, 2026

An Expert’s Guide to Rafting in the Pikes Peak Region

Whether you’re an experienced or first-time rafter, there’s no doubt you’ll have a great time on the Arkansas River.

We talked to Andy Neinas, owner of Echo Canyon River Expeditions, about what to expect on the water for the upcoming season.

Coloradans are talking about this year’s low snowpack. What does that mean for the upcoming rafting season?

Locals are aware that this winter did not deliver the abundance of snowpack we normally expect. All river outfitters will be open and operating throughout the summer tourism season. Our industry has mechanisms in place to ensure quality river experiences for all ages and abilities, regardless of water level. We make adjustments to put-in and take-out locations to provide the same amount of river time we always provide guests.

You have vast experience navigating the Arkansas River. What makes it such a great spot for rafting experiences?

The Arkansas River is unique in that it has something for everyone. With our peers at Colorado Parks and Wildlife, we have developed a resilient recreational infrastructure that provides world-class experiences at all water levels. Sections like Bighorn Sheep Canyon and Browns Canyon are well-suited for first-time floaters and family excursions. Navigating the Royal Gorge provides thrills at all water levels. Many rafters feel lower flows are more challenging and therefore exciting. The scenery never changes, nor does fun with family and friends on the Arkansas River.

What can visitors expect this year for early, mid and late season rafting excursions on the Arkansas?

Consistency is the primary focus of the river industry, and that is what visitors can count on. The shared knowledge that flows among the outfitting community enables us to exchange ideas and embrace best practices, benefiting all recreation users. Moderate flows are ideal for families, and this is setting up to be one of the best fishing years in memory. Rest assured, a river trip with a local outfitter will be a one of the best ways to cool off this summer.

What are some of the best trips for calmer, family-friendly rafting experiences?

This is the river industry’s specialty. All of us want to provide great experiences to families with younger children, grandparents, youth groups, etc. From scenic family floats to sections of river like Bighorn Sheep Canyon and Browns Canyon, rafters can expect meandering afternoons spent in Colorado canyons punctuated by fun and splashy rapids appropriate for most abilities and experience levels.

What would you say to anyone who hasn’t rafted before but is interested in trying it this year?

Any year is well-suited for those who have never taken the time to enjoy a river trip. This year will not reach as high of a peak we usually expect, allowing for introductory experiences throughout the summer tourism season.

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Author

Andy Neinas

Owner, Echo Canyon River Expeditions

Andy has spent over forty years collecting river experiences throughout Colorado and the U.S., visiting many of our state’s remote mountain communities along the way. As the owner of Echo Canyon River Expeditions, Andy holds a DORA agreement with the state of Colorado as well as state and federal permits. Growing his passion into a business and providing outdoor recreation experiences to Colorado’s residents and visitors alike remains his driving force. Andy’s volunteer career spans decades with a focus on tourism, water for recreation, habitat and wildlife, as well as how the public chooses to engage and recreate on public lands.

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