Whitewater Rafting in Colorado, Setting Up for an Exciting 2007 Vacation Season

The snow is melting. The rivers are swollen with the fresh spring run-off. The current is swift. The waves have grown in size and frequency. This marks the beginning of the 2007 whitewater rafting season on the Arkansas River in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.
The Upper Arkansas River basin received abundant snowfall this winter offering whitewater enthusiasts’ ample water for the upcoming whitewater season. 2007 promises to be one of the best rafting seasons in years as the Rocky Mountain west recovers from drought conditions. Colorado’s rivers primarily depend on the snow pack for their water supply. Peak native run-off usually occurs sometime in late May and June providing the most exciting whitewater opportunities. The Arkansas River is unique among Colorado’s Rivers in that its’ water resources are managed by the “Voluntary Flow Program”. Water is stored in three different reservoirs at the headwaters near Leadville. The entities that own and manage the waters that feed the Arkansas River have coordinated with Colorado State Parks and the Arkansas River’s outfitters to supplement the native flow when the snowmelt subsides. This provides the Arkansas River with enough water late in the season to allow whitewater operations well into September.
The Arkansas River in southern Colorado saw 282,381 commercial rafting visitors in 2006 up 3.97% from 2005. The numbers continue to grow as more and more travelers are realizing this is a sport that anyone can participate in under the direction of a qualified guide and licensed outfitter. The Arkansas River in southern Colorado is one of the most user-friendly rivers anywhere in the world. It offers whitewater rafting trips suitable for everyone. Whitewater adventure trips are a great family or group activity and also appeal to the avid outdoors adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can choose from half-day excursions to multi-day overnight river adventures. The Arkansas provides over 110 miles of whitewater with varying levels of difficulty. Trips range from class II scenic floats to class V extreme trips through the world-renowned Royal Gorge. Many class III trips are suitable for children as young as 6 years old or at least 50 lbs. Size requirements must be met in order to provide them with proper fitting safety gear. The ability to swim well is not required for easier runs. However, it is mandatory for all class IV and above rapids.
Rafting trips are very affordable with prices ranging from $30 to $599 per person depending on trip options and duration. The outfitter provides all river gear and some trips include riverside lunches, or multiple meals if you’re on an overnight trip. It is important to have properly fitted PFD’s (personal flotation device), and helmets. During the peak run-off wetsuits are mandatory as the water temperatures can be as low as 40°. Splash Jackets, heavy-duty windbreakers are also provided to help eliminate the wind chill. During the warmer summer month’s swimsuits are the attire of choice. Sport sandals, water socks, or an old pair of tennis shoes are the suggested footwear. Contact lenses are not recommended. If you choose to wear eyeglasses or sunglasses bring retaining cords such as chums or croakies to prevent loosing them to the river. Plan on bringing waterproof sunscreen as Colorado’s high altitude lends itself to the potential for sunburn. With all of the appropriate equipment and skilled guides, whitewater rafting is one of the most fun and exciting means of getting into Colorado’s scenic backcountry.
Commercial river guides operating in Colorado are required to meet minimum state standards. Certain sections of river have more stringent requirements that guides must meet before navigating commercial passenger rafts. All guides are required to hold current CPR/First Aid certifications, and many exceed these requirements with Wilderness First Responder certifications. River guides in Colorado undergo extensive training in river safety techniques and river rescue scenarios enabling them to provide their guests with a safe and exciting trip. River guides are some of the most entertaining and colorful folks you’ll ever meet. They guide as a result of their passion for the sport, and the thrill of passing this passion on to their guests. Most guides are not only expert boatmen, they also boast a working knowledge of the areas history and ecology. A guide’s salary is modest at best for the amount of responsibility bestowed upon them. Twelve to fourteen hour days are common during the peak season. Gratuities are graciously accepted as a show of appreciation for their hard work in providing their guests with an exciting and memorable experience.
Get out there this summer and experience it for yourself. Whitewater rafting can provide you and your family and friends with fun and exciting memories that will last a lifetime! See you on the river!