The Arkansas River, found just a short drive west of Colorado Springs, has been named one of the most popular rafting destinations in the United States thanks to its over 150 miles of raft-ready waters, more than 80 Class II to Class V rapids and the breathtaking natural landscapes that it winds through.

Navigating the river by raft is a memorable experience that is best done under the expert guidance of an experienced outfitter, who is able to equip all members of your party with personal floatation devices and protective gear as well as conduct thorough training prior to launching. Knowledgeable guides can not only safely propel your trip downriver, but also offer education and often quirky insights of the river and its surroundings.

A recipient of the TripAdvisors Travelers’ Choice Award in 2025, local rafting company River Runners is a top choice for novice and veteran rafters looking to take on the rushing waters of the Arkansas River. River Runners has been operating on the Arkansas River for more than 50 years — longer than any other rafting company — and their professional guides pair knowledge, humor and skill to deliver an unforgettable experience.

Launching from points just a short drive from Colorado Springs, including Royal Gorge and Browns Canyon, River Runners presents exciting rafting expeditions perfect for beginners, families and experts alike.

Family Float Rafting is a beginners’ route that is ideal for families with young kids or first-time rafters searching for a calm, casual trip through Browns Canyon — the most popular destination for whitewater rafting in the country. The family-friendly float is led (and powered) by one of River Runners’ expert guides, with the option for passengers to paddle along or just sit back and relax as they learn about the history, geology and ecology that flanks the Arkansas River. The four-mile, 1.5-hour float ends at the Browns Canyon Riverside Grill for post-raft refueling and is available to book late-April through early-September.

A slightly more advanced route but still suitable for beginners and families, Browns Canyon Whitewater Rafting adds a bit of excitement to an otherwise relaxing rafting adventure, with half- or full-day options available. For a truly unique excursion that connects you with nature, opt for the overnight experience to cruise down the river and establish a base camp at Browns Canyon National Monument, where you’ll sleep under the stars in tents available to rent from River Runners. Available May through September.

Another family-friendly option, the Bighorn Sheep Canyon Rafting expedition is ideal for novice rafters, featuring rapids that provide just enough of a splash to get you wet, but won’t distract from the ability to admire the surrounding wilderness and area wildlife, including the canyon’s namesake Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep. Rafters have the option to paddle along or request an oar boat for more casual floats. Available to book late-May through early-September.

Available to book April through September and restricted to strong swimmers ages 14+, the Royal Gorge Rafting Trip presents experienced rafters with an all-encompassing rafting journey through the “Grand Canyon of the Arkansas River.” Strong rapids — with names such as Sledgehammer, Wallslammer and Boateater — present even the most well-versed thrill-seekers with new challenges. Along the way, rafters will admire the stunning granite rock formations, learn more about the Gorge’s history and cruise 1,000 feet below the Royal Gorge Bridge, the highest bridge in the United States and one of the highest suspension bridges in the world.

The Numbers Rafting Trip is perfect for those seeking an exciting onslaught of rapids. In fact, there is such a concentrated number of rapids along this route that they were given numbers instead of names. Tap into your rafting experience, paddle hard and listen closely to the guide as you navigate steep chutes, big waves, and long rapids during this 6-mile (half day) or 13-mile (full day) journey. This adventure is limited to only strong swimmers ages 14+ and is available mid-May through mid-August.

Other Rafting Experiences

River Runners offers additional expeditions along the Arkansas River, including inflatable kayak trips, multi-day excursions and even a Happy Hour Float that ends at the Riverside Grill for half-priced drinks. Click here to view the full list of available rafting tours and start planning your next Arkansas River whitewater adventure.

*This blog post is sponsored by River Runners