Find the best White Water Rafting From Steamboat Springs!
Adventure made simple
Everything you need to know to plan the perfect white water rafting adventure from Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Gear up for fun!
We’re a crew of wander-happy, river obsessed, Yampa Valley locals, who believe the best adventures start with knowing your options.
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.
Nearby Rivers
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During the summer the Colorado River will likely be the closest and best rafting option from Steamboat Springs. The Colorado River is the perfect option for the entire family ages 3+. This beginner-friendly scenic rafting trip is about 1 hour South of town and offers some splashy Class II+ white water. Check out Colorado River Guides for more info
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Looking for an option a little closer to Steamboat? The Yampa River flows right through town. The Yampa River is typically a spring 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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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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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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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!
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 boutique adventure service offering white water rafting on the Colorado & Eagle River. Step off the beaten path and into a splashy raft with Colorado River Guides today!
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.