Find the best White Water Rafting From Steamboat Springs!
Everything you need to know to plan the perfect family rafting adventure from Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Adventure made simple
Did you know Steamboat is only a short drive from one of the most iconic rivers in the American West? The Colorado River flows through some of the most pristine and untouched wilderness in the United States. This river will go on to carve the Grand Canyon.
We’re a crew of wander-happy, river obsessed, Yampa Valley locals, who believe the best adventures start with knowing your options.
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Nearby Rivers
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During the height of summer the Colorado River will probably be the best rafting option from Steamboat Springs. The Colorado River is the perfect option for the entire family as a beginner-friendly scenic rafting trip. Check out Colorado River Guides for more info.
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Looking for an option in the spring and early summer that’s a little closer to Steamboat? The Yampa River flows right through town. The Yampa River is typically a early season rafting adventure. Backdoor Sports has you covered for this fun and splashy white water run right through the heart of Steamboat Springs.
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The Eagle River is one of the last undammed rivers in the state of Colorado. This intermediate rafting options offers class III IV white water during the spring run-off season.
Frequently Asked Questions
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For those that have never experienced white water rafting before, or for families with children, most outfitters will recommend a beginner option. From Steamboat Springs, this means the Colorado River or the Yampa River in the spring.
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Check out the outfitters we recommend below, give them a call, read their reviews, & visit their website. Make sure they have experienced guides on staff and offer trips that fit your itinerary.
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Yes, making reservations for white water rafting near Steamboat Springs is always a smart move. Many outfitters have online booking with real-time availability. If you’re thinking of booking a private customized trip (such as this one) advanced reservations are encouraged
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Before choosing an outfitter ask them:
How long you’ll be on the water for
How many miles you’ll be rafting
How much time you’ll spend in the bus/van
Whats included
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This answer kinda depends on the trip you’ve selected. In general, its always a good idea to check with the outfitter you reserve with. But a water bottle, sunscreen, and things you don’t mind getting wet are all great places to start
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Again, this can vary depending on the trip you select, so remember to double check with your outfitter. For runs such as the Colorado River, its usually best to wear things you don’t mind getting wet. Swimsuits, shorts, t-shirt, hat, and shoes that stay on your feet.
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Steamboat is stunning, and full of all sorts of different adventures in the summertime. Besides the more obvious activities, like riding the gondola, checking out fish creek falls, and visiting strawberry park hot springs.
We recommend wilderness horseback riding with Colorado’s High Lonesome Outfitters. cohighlonesome.com (hint: you can plan a morning horseback ride with High Lonesome, and a afternoon half day rafting trip with Colorado River Guidesraftcolorado.com for a saddles & paddles adventure. Just mention saddles and paddles during booking)
Don’t forget to check out Steamboat Zipline Adventuressteamboatziplineadventures.com for an awesome 6 segment zipline, just a few minutes from town!
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This is going to depend on the river you’re looking at. For example, some rivers, like the Colorado, are dam-regulated, which means they usually have guaranteed flows throughout the summer.
Other rivers like the Yampa, Elk, and Eagle are snowmelt-fed, so the river levels will vary depending on the amount of snowfall the previous winter.
Outfitters
For over 40 years Colorado River Guides has had the privilege of calling Steamboat Springs and the Yampa Valley home. A smaller, family owned and operated rafting outfitter offering white water rafting on the Colorado & Eagle River. Step off the beaten path and into a splashy raft with Colorado River Guides!
Experienced guides, family owned and operated, a Leave no Trace partner. Downstream is a great option for both rafting and fly fishing close to Steamboat Springs.
Since 1986 Backdoor Sports has provided the river runners, climbers and backcountry skiers of Northwest Colorado with the best in clothing, equipment and expertise. With a shop conveniently located in Downtown Steamboat Springs at 841 Yampa St.