Vail CO: Family-Friendly Colorado River White Water Raft

Nestled in the stunning Rocky Mountains, Vail, Colorado offers an exhilarating way for families to explore the great outdoors. The Colorado River winds through the valley, providing an ideal setting for a thrilling white water rafting adventure. With gentle Class I-II rapids and the occasional burst of Class III excitement, this guided tour promises an unforgettable experience for adventurers of all ages and skill levels. Discover the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds you as you navigate the river, keeping an eye out for local wildlife along the way. What’s in store for your family on this Colorado adventure?

Key Points

• Family-friendly white water rafting on the Upper Colorado River near Vail, Colorado, featuring mild Class I-II rapids with occasional Class III.
• 3-hour guided adventure including safety briefing, transportation, and 2.5 hours of rafting along scenic landscapes with wildlife sightings.
• Suitable for all experience levels, with necessary equipment and trained guides ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
• Itinerary includes meeting at the Rancho Del Rio boathouse, with trips departing twice daily at 9 AM and 1 PM.
• Recommended attire is bathing suits, shorts, and water shoes, with restrictions on prohibited items for safety and enjoyment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

Family-friendly white water rafting on the Colorado River is the focus of this 3-hour adventure.

The experience begins with a 30-minute safety briefing, followed by a 15-minute van ride to the launch site.

Then, it’s 2.5 hours of guided rafting along the Upper Colorado River, featuring mild Class I-II rapids with occasional Class III at higher water levels.

Throughout the trip, guests can enjoy scenic views of meadows, valleys, ranch lands, and steep canyon walls while spotting wildlife like bald eagles, deer, beavers, and big horn sheep.

Priced from $93.50 per person, this rafting tour is suitable for all skill levels.

Rafting Experience

The guided adventure on the Upper Colorado River features mild Class I-II rapids and occasional Class III rapids at higher water flow. Breathtaking scenery awaits, with meadows, valleys, ranch lands, and steep canyon walls lining the river. Wildlife sightings are common, including bald eagles, deer, beavers, and big horn sheep.

| Scenery | Wildlife |

| — | — |

| Meadows | Bald Eagles |

| Valleys | Deer |

| Ranch Lands | Beavers |

| Steep Canyon Walls | Big Horn Sheep |

The rafting experience is suitable for families with no prior experience necessary, offering an exciting yet safe adventure on the water.

Itinerary Details

Customers meet at the Rancho Del Rio boathouse, located at 4199 Trough Rd in Bond, Colorado. Trips depart twice daily at 9 AM or 1 PM.

The adventure includes paddling, swimming, and socializing on the Upper Colorado River. After the 2.5-hour rafting excursion, a shuttle service returns guests to the boathouse.

The itinerary provides an immersive experience in Colorado’s scenic landscapes, allowing families to enjoy the outdoors and wildlife sightings like bald eagles, deer, beavers, and bighorn sheep.

Safety and Equipment

While safety is a top priority, the activity provides all necessary equipment. Rafters receive a life jacket, helmet, and paddle. Wet suits and splash jackets are available to rent for added protection against the water and weather.

Guides are trained in first aid and emergency procedures. Participants must sign waivers acknowledging the inherent risks.

There are some restrictions – the activity isn’t suitable for children under 5, individuals over 350 lbs, or those over 95 years old. Personal insurance and tips for the knowledgeable guides are recommended.

With the right gear and caution, guests can confidently enjoy the thrilling white water adventure.

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Recommendations and Restrictions

Recommended attire for the white water rafting adventure includes bathing suits, shorts, and water shoes – no flip flops or bare feet are allowed. Quick-drying fabrics are preferred over cotton. Items not permitted on the river include high-heeled shoes, drones, alcohol, glass objects, electric wheelchairs, and fireworks. Towels should be kept in vehicles, as they cannot be kept dry on the river.

| Recommended Items | Prohibited Items |

| — | — |

| Bathing suits | High-heeled shoes |

| Shorts | Drones |

| Water shoes | Alcohol |

Customer Reviews

Based on the two reviews available, the white water rafting experience seems to have been quite positive for customers.

Reviewers highlight the great time they’d and praise the knowledgeable, friendly guides. One reviewer describes the trip as "an absolute blast" and says the guides made the experience "extra special."

Another reviewer notes the "breathtaking scenery" and calls the rafting "a highlight of our Colorado vacation."

Getting to the Colorado River Boathouse

The Colorado River Boathouse, where the rafting adventure begins, is located at 4199 Trough Rd in Bond, CO.

It’s a short 15-minute van ride from the meeting point. Once there, you’ll check-in, get your safety gear, and listen to the pre-trip briefing.

The boathouse has restrooms, changing areas, and rental gear if needed.

You’ll then hop on the bus and head to the river launch site to start your 2.5-hour white water rafting experience.

With a few directions, you’ll easily find the boathouse and be ready to embark on your family-friendly Colorado River adventure.

What to Expect on Your Rafting Adventure

Stepping onto the river, you’ll embark on an exhilarating journey through the stunning Colorado landscape.

Your experienced guide will lead you down the Upper Colorado River, navigating mild Class I-II rapids and the occasional Class III at higher water levels.

Along the way, you’ll take in breathtaking views of meadows, valleys, ranch lands, and towering canyon walls.

Keep an eye out for wildlife like bald eagles, deer, beavers, and bighorn sheep.

With no prior experience necessary, this is a perfect adventure for families looking to make unforgettable memories on the river.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Life Jackets Mandatory?

Yes, life jackets are mandatory for all participants on the Colorado River white water rafting tour. The tour operator provides the necessary safety equipment, including life jackets, to ensure everyone’s well-being during the rafting adventure.

How Do I Confirm My Reservation on the Day of the Trip?

To confirm the reservation on the day of the trip, the customer should arrive at the Colorado Rafting Company – Colorado River Boathouse in Bond, CO at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time. The staff will have the customer’s information ready to go.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

You can’t bring your own food and drinks on the rafting trip. The company provides all necessary equipment, including life jackets and paddles. They recommend wearing quick-drying clothing and avoiding cotton or high-heeled shoes for safety reasons.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Children?

The minimum age requirement for children is 5 years old. The activity is not suitable for children under 5 due to safety concerns. Families with older children can enjoy this white water rafting experience on the Colorado River.

Is Gratuity for the Guides Included in the Pricing?

The pricing does not include gratuity for the guides. Tips of 15-20% are recommended for the guides, who provide the equipment and lead the white water rafting adventure on the Colorado River.

The Sum Up

Embark on an unforgettable white water rafting adventure along the Colorado River near Vail, CO. With mild rapids, stunning scenery, and wildlife sightings, this family-friendly experience is perfect for all ages. Enjoy the thrill of the river while safety is the top priority. Don’t miss this chance to explore Colorado’s natural beauty on an unforgettable rafting trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: