Scenic Float Trips in Colorado: Best Relaxing River Adventures for Families with Young Kids & Seniors
Direct Answer: The best scenic float trips in Colorado for families with young children and seniors include the Arkansas River Scenic Float (ages 4+, Class I–II, near Canon City), the Upper Colorado River Float near Glenwood Springs (ages 3+, Class II), and the Bear Creek Family Float on the Arkansas near Buena Vista (ages 4+, 30 lbs minimum). These trips feature calm water, wildlife viewing, and guided safety; no experience needed.
Introduction
Not every Colorado river adventure needs big rapids and nonstop paddling. Some of the most memorable days on the water involve floating through scenic canyons, spotting wildlife along the shoreline, and sharing the experience with family and friends.
For young children, grandparents, and first-time visitors, scenic float trips offer a relaxing way to experience Colorado's rivers without the intensity of larger whitewater runs.
What Makes a Float Trip Different From Whitewater Rafting?
This is a question most competitors ignore, and it matters.
Float trips (also called scenic floats or family floats) typically run on Class I–II water. That means small riffles, gentle waves, and calm stretches are enough movement to feel like a real river experience, but nothing that requires paddling experience or physical strength.
Whitewater rafting involves Class III and above real rapids, bigger waves, and trips that require a minimum age of 12–14+, depending on the run.
For young children, seniors, first-timers, or anyone with limited mobility, a float trip is the right starting point. You still get a guide, life jacket, safety briefing, and the full river experience — just without the intensity.
Key distinction for booking: Always ask about the specific class rating of the section you'll be floating. "Family-friendly" means different things to different outfitters.
Best Scenic Float Trip Options in Colorado
1. Arkansas River Scenic Float — Bighorn Sheep Canyon (Ages 4+)
Location: Canon City / Royal Gorge Region
Difficulty: Class I–II
Minimum age: 4 years old (may increase to 6 during high spring runoff)
Minimum weight: 35 lbs
Trip length: 5 miles, roughly 1.5 hours on the water
This is Colorado's most popular gentle float, and for good reason. The upper section of Bighorn Sheep Canyon offers calm water, easy ripples, and one of the best wildlife corridors on the Arkansas River. Bighorn sheep often appear on the canyon walls above. Trout dart below the surface. Mule deer come to drink at the banks.
The Scenic Float is ideal for:
- Toddlers and preschoolers taking their first river trip
- Grandparents who want the experience without physical exertion
- Mixed groups spanning 3–4 generations
- Anyone who wants to see Colorado from a raft, not just survive it
Outfitters like Echo Canyon River Expeditions run this trip with full gear (wetsuit, PFD, helmet) and experienced guides who are trained to work with young children.
What competitors miss: Age minimums can temporarily increase to 6 during high spring runoff. Always confirm with your outfitter before booking.
2. Upper Colorado River Float — Glenwood Springs Area (Ages 3+)
Location: Near Glenwood Springs / Vail Valley
Difficulty: Class II
Minimum age: 3 years old (35 lbs minimum)
Trip length: Typically 2 hours on the water
The Upper Colorado River near Glenwood Springs is one of the most scenic and consistently calm commercial rafting stretches in the state. Wide open, sun-drenched, and fed by a large watershed, it flows reliably through summer without the dramatic water-level swings that affect smaller rivers.
This section is particularly suited for families with very young children (ages 3+) and for seniors who want to experience the grandeur of the Rockies at eye level with the water. Outfitters like Adventure Outdoors / Lakota Guides and Downstream Adventures offer guided floats here with oar boats, where the guide does all the rowing, making it completely accessible for guests who can't or don't want to paddle.
Practical note: Morning departures tend to be less crowded and offer calmer skies. Book early in the week if possible to avoid weekend traffic on the water.
3. Bear Creek Family Float — Arkansas River near Buena Vista (Ages 4+)
Location: Between Buena Vista and Salida
Difficulty: Class I–II (gentle rapids)
Minimum age: 4 years old, 30 lbs minimum
Trip length: Half-day (approx. 2 hours on water); full-day option includes riverside lunch
Performance Tours Rafting runs the Bear Creek Family Float on a calm section of the Arkansas River framed by towering trees, mountain views, and cottonwood groves. The trip offers paddle boats, oar boats (guide-only rowing), and paddle-assist options — giving groups flexibility based on who can participate.
A recent reviewer brought her 80-year-old mother along and described it as "peaceful enough for seniors and exciting enough to keep the rest of us smiling the whole way." That says it better than any brochure.
The full-day option adds a riverside picnic lunch, a genuinely memorable way to spend an afternoon in the Rockies with people of all ages.
4. Short & Mild Float — Colorado River near Glenwood Springs (Ages 2+)
Location: Glenwood Springs
Difficulty: Class II (easy)
Minimum age: 2 years old
Trip length: 1.5–2 hours
Whitewater Rafting LLC runs one of the few commercial trips in Colorado open to children as young as 2 years old. This short, mild float along the Colorado River near Glenwood Springs keeps things simple: easy Class II rapids, scenic canyon surroundings, and a pace that lets even the youngest guests feel comfortable on the water.
For grandparents bringing toddler grandchildren, or parents with children under 4, this is one of the very few options designed specifically for that age group.
Float Trip Comparison: Which One Is Right for Your Group?
| Trip | River | Min. Age | Difficulty | Best For | Approx. Duration |
| Arkansas Scenic Float | Arkansas | 4 yrs / 35 lbs | Class I–II | Toddlers, grandparents, mixed groups | 1.5 hrs on water |
| Upper Colorado Float | Colorado | 3 yrs / 35 lbs | Class II | Young families, first-timers, seniors | 2 hrs on water |
| Bear Creek Family Float | Arkansas | 4 yrs / 30 lbs | Class I–II | All ages, full-day option available | 2 hrs / full day |
Tips for Planning a Float Trip With Kids or Seniors
Book morning departures. River temperatures are cooler, skies are clearer, and crowds are thinner. Morning trips also leave the afternoon free for other activities.
Choose an oar boat over a paddle boat if your group includes very young children or seniors who prefer not to paddle. The guide rows; your group simply enjoys the ride.
Check age and weight minimums before booking; they can change with water conditions. High spring runoff (May–June) sometimes temporarily raises minimum ages for safety.
Dress in layers, not cotton. Even on calm water, you may get splashed. Synthetic fabrics dry quickly; cotton doesn't. Outfitters typically provide wetsuits and splash jackets.
Don't skip the safety briefing. It takes 10–15 minutes and covers everything your guide needs from you. Kids generally love it.
Why Families Choose Scenic Float Trips
Benefits include:
- No rafting experience required
- Suitable for multiple generations
- Less physically demanding
- Great introduction to rafting
- More time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife
- Comfortable pace for younger children
Conclusion
Colorado's rivers have something for everyone, and some of the most rewarding days happen at the quieter end of the spectrum. A well-guided scenic float gives young children their first real taste of the outdoors, gives seniors a way to experience the Rockies they might otherwise miss, and gives families a few unhurried hours together on moving water.
Pick the right river, choose the right boat type for your group, and let a good guide do the rest. That's really all there is to it.
Rafting offers guided family-friendly adventures on some of Colorado's most beautiful rivers, helping guests enjoy the perfect balance of scenery, relaxation, and outdoor fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the youngest age a child can go on a Colorado float trip?
Some outfitters accept children as young as 2–3 years old on very gentle Class II floats. Most scenic float trips on the Arkansas River accept children from age 4 and a minimum weight of 30–35 lbs. Age minimums can temporarily increase during high water periods, so always confirm with your specific outfitter before booking.
Q2: Are float trips safe for seniors or people with limited mobility?
Yes. Gentle Class I–II float trips are designed to be accessible for all fitness levels, including seniors and guests with limited mobility. Oar boats (where the guide rows the entire time) require no physical effort from guests. Always inform your outfitter of any mobility considerations when booking so they can assign the right boat and position.
Q3: Do you need to know how to swim to go on a Colorado float trip?
Strong swimming ability is not required for gentle float trips. All guests wear properly fitted life jackets for the entire trip. That said, outfitters generally recommend feeling comfortable in water. If there's any concern, choose an oar boat where swimming is least likely.
Q4: What should we wear on a scenic float trip in Colorado?
Wear synthetic or wool layers (no cotton), secure water shoes (no flip-flops), sunscreen, and a hat. Most outfitters provide wetsuits, splash jackets, helmets, and life jackets. Bring a change of clothes and a dry bag for your phone and valuables.
Q5: How far in advance should we book a Colorado float trip?
Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead for peak summer dates (June–August), especially for weekends and holidays. Family float trips fill up quickly because they accommodate the widest range of guests. In 2026, with a compressed rafting season on some rivers, early booking is more important than usual.
Q6: What's the difference between an oar boat and a paddle boat on a float trip?
On a paddle boat, all guests participate in paddling with guidance from the guide. On an oar boat, the guide does all the rowing, and guests simply sit and enjoy the ride. For trips with very young children, seniors, or anyone who prefers a more passive experience, an oar boat is the better choice.
Whitewater Rafting in Colorado: Why It's the Best Group Adventure for Families & Teams
Planning a group adventure that works for everyone isn't easy. Families often have a mix of ages and experience levels. Corporate teams bring different comfort zones and personalities. Whitewater rafting succeeds where many group activities fall short because everyone shares the same experience while still finding a challenge level that fits.
KODI Rafting has been running hand-crafted river adventures in Colorado since 1986. With more than 30 trips on six rivers and outposts across the state, KODI Rafting has helped families, corporate teams, church groups, wedding parties, and reunions create memories that outlast any team dinner or theme park ticket.
Here's why Colorado's rivers are the right call and how to choose the trip that fits your crew.
What Makes Colorado Ideal for Group Whitewater Rafting?
Colorado is home to some of the most diverse and accessible whitewater in the United States. The Arkansas River, the most commercially rafted river in the country, runs straight through the heart of the state, offering everything from peaceful family floats to adrenaline-pumping Class IV sections.
For groups, this diversity is the key advantage:
- Beginners and young children can be on the same river as experienced paddlers, just on different sections or trip types.
- Multiple departures daily mean you can slot around travel schedules.
- Locations near Buena Vista, Breckenridge, Frisco, Idaho Springs, and Kremmling make access easy from Denver and most Colorado vacation destinations.
- Six rivers, including Clear Creek, the Upper Colorado, the Blue River, and the Dolores, mean there's a right fit regardless of where your group is based.
Is Whitewater Rafting Safe for Families with Young Kids?
Yes, and this is one of the most common misconceptions people have. Not all whitewater is wild. Colorado's rivers include calm, scenic Class II stretches that are genuinely suitable for children as young as four years old.
How Difficulty Levels Work
The rapids classification system runs from Class I (flatwater) to Class VI (not commercially run). Here's what that means for your family or group:
| Class | Description | Best For |
| Class II | Gentle waves, easy navigation | Families with kids 4+ |
| Class III | Moderate rapids, some waves | Families, mixed groups |
| Class III-IV | Energetic rapids, technical moves | Ages 14+, confident swimmers |
| Class IV | Powerful rapids, precise paddling needed | Adults, experienced groups |
Our Big Bend Half Day trip accepts children as young as 4 (30 lbs. minimum) on Class II rapids gentle enough to feel safe, exciting enough to be memorable. The Browns Canyon Half-Day trip on the Arkansas River is one of the most popular family options, featuring Class III rapids and a minimum age of 6.
Safety is KODI Rafting's top priority. Guides are trained through Swiftwater Rescue certification, and the training staff brings more than 50 years of combined experience to the river.
Which Colorado River Rafting Trip Is Right for Your Group?
With over 30 trips available, the right choice depends on your group's age range, experience level, and how much time you have. Here's a breakdown of our most popular options for groups:
| Trip | River | Difficulty | Min. Age | Best For |
| Big Bend Half Day | Arkansas River | Beginner – Class II | 4+ / 30 lbs. | Young families |
| Brown's Canyon Half Day | Arkansas River | Moderate – Class III | 6+ / 50 lbs. | Families & groups |
| Brown's Canyon Full Day | Arkansas River | Moderate – Class III | 6+ / 50 lbs. | Corporate retreats |
| Clear Creek Beginner | Clear Creek | Beginner – Class II-III | 5+ / 50 lbs. | First-timers |
| Clear Creek Intermediate | Clear Creek | Moderate – Class III-IV | 14+ | Teen groups |
| Numbers Half Day | Arkansas River | Advanced – Class IV | 14+ | Thrill-seekers |
For groups with mixed experience levels, a common scenario for corporate retreats and family reunions, the Browns Canyon National Monument Full Day trip is the strongest all-around choice. It runs the full length of the monument on the Arkansas River, includes lunch, and works for ages 6 and up.
Why Group Rafting Works for Corporate Teams
Team-building activities are only effective when people are actually engaged. River rafting creates that engagement naturally.
On a raft, communication isn't optional; everyone paddles in sync, or no one moves efficiently. That dynamic builds the exact skills most corporate retreats are trying to develop: trust, communication, and shared decision-making under pressure.
What We Offer Corporate Groups
- Trips for groups of all sizes, including large groups of 200+
- Flexible scheduling with multiple daily departures
- Group discounts of 10% based on size and time of year
- Options to combine rafting with ziplines, horseback riding, or off-road adventures
- Dedicated support from a reservations team that handles the coordination logistics
Unlike a conference room workshop, a river trip gives teams something to talk about for years. The shared experience of navigating rapids together, working through the unexpected, is the kind of thing that actually changes how people relate to each other at work.
Beyond the Raft: Colorado Adventure Packages for Groups
One of the things that sets us apart from most outfitters is our ability to take guests beyond the river. For groups seeking a complete outdoor experience, our adventure packages combine multiple activities into one seamless trip.
Zip & Raft: Morning rafting on the Arkansas River followed by an afternoon zipline through alpine forest. Suitable for ages 6+ (60–260 lbs.).
Saddle Paddle: Horseback riding combined with river rafting for a true wilderness adventure.
Paddle & Dip: Rafting paired with a relaxing soak in natural hot springs pools.
Off-Road & Raft: Combine an off-road excursion with an Arkansas River rafting trip.
These packages are particularly well-suited for corporate retreats, bachelorette and bachelor parties, and wedding groups looking for a multi-experience adventure day.
What to Expect on a Group Rafting Trip
If you have never organized a group river trip before, here's how the process typically works with KODI Rafting:
Talk with the reservations team: Call (877) 747-7238 or submit a group inquiry online. The reservations team will help you identify the right trip based on your group's size, ages, and preferences.
Reserve your spot: Reservations can be held for 10 days, at which point a 50% deposit confirms the booking.
Pre-trip prep: Guides walk everyone through a safety briefing and paddling orientation before entering the water.
On the river: Professional guides lead each raft, handling navigation while coaching the group through paddling commands.
After the trip, you can order professional trip photos to commemorate the experience.
Final Thoughts
When a group of people, whether it's a family, a team, or a wedding party, shares something genuinely challenging and beautiful, it creates the kind of connection that no conference room or restaurant dinner can replicate. Whitewater rafting delivers that experience time and time again.
For more than 40 years, the team has been creating memorable adventures for groups of all sizes. With trips designed for every age and skill level, experienced guides, transparent pricing, and the ability to coordinate everything from small family outings to large corporate events, they're a trusted choice for group adventures in the Rockies.
Whether you are organizing a first family trip down the Arkansas River or coordinating a 100-person corporate retreat, planning your adventure starts with a single call: (877) 747-7238. Visit whitewatercolorado.com to explore available trips and locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the minimum age for whitewater rafting in Colorado?
The minimum age varies by trip. The Big Bend Half Day trip accepts children as young as 4 years old (minimum 30 lbs.), while the Clear Creek Beginner Trip starts at age 5. Most family-friendly trips begin at age 6. Advanced trips on Class IV rapids require participants to be at least 14 years old.
2. How large a group can be accommodated?
Groups range from small family gatherings to 200+ person events. The team specializes in group logistics and can coordinate multiple rafts, staggered departure times, and combined activity packages to keep large groups organized.
3. Are group discounts available?
Yes. A 10% group discount is offered depending on group size and time of year. Contact the reservations team directly at (877) 747-7238 to discuss pricing for your specific group.
4. What should we wear and bring for a group rafting trip?
All essential safety gear, including life jackets and helmets, is provided. Guests should wear clothes they don’t mind getting wet, secure footwear (no flip-flops), and sunscreen. Avoid cotton whenever possible. Quick-drying synthetic layers work best on the river, and a wetsuit may be recommended in cooler water conditions.
5. When is the best time of year for whitewater rafting in Colorado?
The primary rafting season runs from late spring through early fall, with peak conditions typically from May through August when snowmelt keeps river levels optimal. Operations generally run from 7 AM to 7 PM, Monday through Sunday.
6. Can non-swimmers participate?
Yes. All participants wear personal flotation devices (PFDs) at all times. Guides are trained in swiftwater rescue, and beginner trips prioritize safety. Many beginner and family-friendly trips can accommodate non-swimmers, but participants should be comfortable in the water and follow the guide's instructions carefully.
Best Family Outdoor Activities in Colorado: Safe & Fun Adventures for All Ages
| QUICK ANSWERColorado's best family outdoor activities include whitewater rafting, hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park, sandboarding at Great Sand Dunes, ziplining, and hot springs. Many activities are suitable for kids as young as 3. Peak season is June–August, but Colorado offers family adventures year-round. |
Colorado is a world-class family adventure destination. With 300+ days of sunshine, 58 peaks above 14,000 feet, and wild rivers cutting through dramatic canyon scenery, there's no shortage of outdoor experiences built for every age.
This guide highlights some of Colorado’s best family-friendly outdoor adventures, along with age recommendations and local tips to help you plan the perfect trip.
Key Takeaways
- Whitewater rafting starts at age 3 on beginner trips, not just for teens
- Colorado has outdoor activities year-round, not just in the summer
- Bundling activities (raft + zipline + hot springs) saves time and money
- Always book licensed outfitters: safety gear and guides are included
- Hydrate before any activity above 8,000 feet, Colorado’s altitude can affect visitors quickly, so hydration is essential.
- Most parks and trails are free or low-cost with a National Parks Pass
What Are the Best Family Outdoor Activities in Colorado?
Here's a quick comparison of the top options, sorted by thrill level:
| Activity | Min. Age | Level | Best Location |
| Family Whitewater Rafting | 3–5 yrs | Beginner | Arkansas River, Upper Colorado |
| Hiking | All ages | Easy–Moderate | Rocky Mountain National Park |
| Sandboarding | All ages | Easy | Great Sand Dunes National Park |
| Ziplining | 7 yrs+ | Moderate | Salida, Breckenridge, Buena Vista |
| Hot Springs | All ages | Easy | Glenwood Springs, Buena Vista |
| Horseback Riding | 5 yrs+ | Easy | Estes Park, Ouray, Buena Vista |
| Mountain Biking | 8 yrs+ | Moderate | Breckenridge, Crested Butte |
| Advanced Rafting / Kayaking | 12 yrs+ | Thrilling | Browns Canyon, Clear Creek |
Why Is Whitewater Rafting the #1 Family Outdoor Activity in Colorado?
Rafting tops most families' Colorado highlight reel, and for good reason. Few Colorado activities work for as many ages and experience levels as whitewater rafting.
KODI Rafting's family trips on the Big Bend section of the Arkansas River welcome kids ages 3 and up to calm Class I–II water. Older kids and teens can step up to Browns Canyon's Class III–IV rapids. Families can choose calm scenic floats or more exciting whitewater depending on experience level.
Everything is provided: wetsuits, helmets, life jackets, and certified guides. No gear shopping. No complicated prep. Just show up ready for adventure.
It's also genuinely memorable. Spotting bighorn sheep from the raft, paddling through canyon rapids together, these are the moments families talk about for years.
Best Beginner Rafting Trips for Families
Big Bend Half Day: Gentlest option. Calm water, scenic Arkansas River views. Ages 3+.
Upper Colorado River Half Day: Mild rapids, wildflower meadows, granite canyon walls. Guides share local history. Ages 5+.
Clear Creek (Idaho Springs): Class II–III through a historic mining canyon. Easy day trip from Denver. Ages 7+.
| Ready to Book Your Family Rafting Adventure?KODI Rafting has run safe, guided family trips across six Colorado rivers since 1986. Voted #1 rafting company 11 times by Summit Daily Reader's Poll.
Explore Family Rafting Trips → whitewatercolorado.com/river-trips/white-water-rafting-for-kids/ |
What Are the Best Family Hiking Spots in Colorado?
Colorado has hundreds of family-friendly trails. Match the trail to your kids' age, that's the step most guides skip.
- Rocky Mountain National Park: The Sprague Lake loop (0.9 miles, totally flat) works for toddlers. Emerald Lake Trail is ideal for elementary-age kids. The area is known for frequent wildlife sightings, including elk, moose, and marmots
- Lair o' the Bear (Morrison): 2-mile creek-side loop. Free to enter. Kids love the massive cottonwood trees along the trail.
- Hanging Lake (Glenwood Canyon): Reservations required, but worth it. A steep 2.4-mile round trip leads to a stunning turquoise lake. Best for ages 10+.
Pro tip: Start all hikes before 11 AM. Afternoon thunderstorms build fast above treeline in Colorado, so an early start keeps your family safe.
What Hidden Gem Outdoor Activities Do Most Families Miss?
Most travel guides stop at hiking and rafting. These four deserve a spot on your list:
- Sandboarding at Great Sand Dunes: North America's tallest dunes (up to 750 feet). Rent a sled, climb, and fly down. Medano Creek forms a natural splash zone in late spring, basically a natural water park built by nature.
- Hot Springs: Glenwood Hot Springs Pool is the world's largest outdoor hot spring, open year-round. KODI's Paddle & Dip package pairs a rafting trip with hot springs in a single perfect day.
- Duckie Kayaking: Inflatable one- or two-person kayaks on the Arkansas River. Kids 7+ love the independence of steering their own boat. KODI's Duckie trips are beginner-friendly.
- Horseback Riding + Rafting: KODI's Saddle Paddle package combines a guided horseback ride through Colorado ranchland with a river float. Two iconic experiences, one booking.
How Do You Pick the Right Activity for Your Family's Age?
Here's a simple age-based framework:
- Toddlers (2–4): Flat hikes, Great Sand Dunes, hot springs, shallow pools, and Class I–II river floats.
- Kids (5–11): Beginner rafting, horseback riding, duckie kayaking, moderate hikes, and ziplining (min. 60 lbs on most courses).
- Teens (12+): Browns Canyon Class III–IV rapids, mountain biking, multi-day rafting trips, and advanced zipline courses.
One scheduling tip: do your most active adventure first thing in the morning. Save hot springs or a scenic float for the afternoon, it makes the perfect recovery activity.
Make Your Colorado Family Vacation Truly Unforgettable
Colorado is one of the few places where families can raft rivers, hike mountain trails, soak in hot springs, and zipline through forests all in the same trip.
Whether you’re planning your first Colorado vacation or coming back for another round of adventure, the right mix of activities can turn a good trip into one your family talks about for years.
Explore family-friendly rafting trips and adventure packages at whitewatercolorado.com
Frequently Asked Questions
1. At what age can kids start whitewater rafting in Colorado?
Kids as young as 3 can join mild Class I–II floats. KODI Rafting's family trips on Big Bend and the Upper Colorado River welcome children from age 3 on the calmest sections.
2. What is the best time of year for family outdoor activities in Colorado?
June through August offer the most options, rivers are running, trails are open, and temperatures are pleasant. Spring (May–June) is great for wildflowers and fewer crowds. Fall (September–October) brings stunning foliage with mild hiking weather.
3. Are there free family outdoor activities in Colorado?
Yes. Rocky Mountain National Park offers family-friendly trails covered by park entry. Great Sand Dunes charges a small fee, but sandboarding with a rented sled is budget-friendly. Many state park trails cost just a day pass.
4. Is whitewater rafting safe for kids?
Yes, when booked through a licensed outfitter. KODI Rafting's guides are professionally trained, beginner family trips typically run Class I–II rapids, and proper safety gear is always provided.
5. What should families pack for outdoor adventures in Colorado?
Pack layers (mountain weather changes fast), sun protection, sturdy shoes, and plenty of water. For rafting, we provide wetsuits, helmets, and life jackets; no extra gear is needed from you.
6. Can we combine multiple outdoor activities in one Colorado trip?
Yes. We offer packages bundling rafting with ziplining (Zip & Raft), horseback riding (Saddle Paddle), and hot springs (Paddle & Dip), perfect for families who want maximum adventure in one trip.
Should I Bring the Kids White Water Rafting?
You’ve seen the rafts careening over rocks while spraying the boat riders with foam. You’ve even taken a couple of trips yourself. But now you’ve got kids in tow and aren’t sure if a white water rafting trip is in the books. Do you need to choose a gentler vacation activity or can the kiddos get in on the fun?
Well, we’re here to let you know that white water rafting is a thrilling activity for people of all ages, children included. And with the right choices and preparation, you’ll ensure it makes for wonderful family memories.
Choose the Right Class of Rapids for Your Age Group
As adventurous as your kids may be, it’s important to know their limits. When you’re planning a trip, you want to consider the classes of whitewater river rapids on your ride. Experts divide rapids into six classifications, but with kids along, we’re going to highlight only on the first three classes. Balanced with river flow levels, these will give you a great idea of how much adventure you’re signing up for.
Class I Whitewater
Think of the lazy river at your local water park. More of a float trip, tiny rapids form when water moves over shallow beds of obstacles and while on the mellower side, these still count as rapids! You’ll experience these for the majority of your Class I trip. Younger kids and even timid adults will enjoy the peaceful, easy flow of these waters. You’ll likely do some paddling to avoid obstacles like boulders and bridges, or your guide will use an oar rig where you just get to ride along and enjoy the beauty of the river and valley.
Class II Whitewater
Class II rapids generally create whitecaps that are 1-3 feet high which means these are the ones you can really see and experience. Easy to navigate, these waters will definitely excite the kids! Maneuvering between rocks and ledges will get the raft rocking and the kids a bit wet, especially if they choose to ride in front. Now we’re talking. And if anyone gets nervous, they can always sit in the center of the raft while the bigger kids and adults ring the sides of the raft with their paddles.
Class III Whitewater
Due to moderate difficulty, younger children shouldn’t be riding the class III rapids. With many irregular waves (4-5 feet high) and tumultuous water, strong adventurous older kids and teens will love these! Water will definitely crash over the boat and everyone will get wet. That’s what we wanted though, right? As long as you follow your guide’s direction and pay attention, these bumpy rides will be super fun.
If you want to know more about the 3 remaining river classes, check out our classifications page or whitewater classifications article that will quickly bring you up to speed.
Gear Up for a Bumpy (and Wet) Ride
The raft and paddles aren’t the only equipment you’ll need for a safe and exciting ride. Exposure to the climate, bright sun, and water temperature can creep up on you. Preparation is key here but that doesn’t mean you need to bring along enough gear to sink the raft. A few common-sense items will make all the difference.
Avoid the Cold
Even with the bright sun overhead, waters can be chilly, after all, most of the river water is recently melted snow. Keeping children and yourself suited up will keep you warm should you fall in or get a wave coming your direction. Wetsuits cover the majority of your body and will keep any ice water where it’s supposed to be; anywhere but on you. Base layers underneath made of nylon, but never cotton is the best choice. Booties will keep the kid’s feet warm and dry in the water-logged raft. And added protection from sharp rocks if they fall out, and while maneuvering around the raft.
Avoid Sunburns
Even submerged in overcast skies, you can still burn in the sun at our high altitudes. And with most trips running for miles, that’s a lot of exposure time. Waterproof sunscreen is essential to protect any skin not covered with a wetsuit. It’s recommended to use anything SPF 30 or higher, and also liberally apply SPF lip balm to prevent chapped lips. We never advise drinking river water (giardia is a well-known parasite from mountain animals upstream) so pack along some reusable water bottles and fill them at the outpost before heading out. Throw a carabiner on it and hook it to the raft so you don’t lose it when the ride gets exciting. You’ll never stop hearing about your child’s favorite bottle floating away.
Protect Your Head
Rocks. Ledges. Trees. Other riders. When the ride gets adventurous, the chances of hitting your head increase. Nothing to worry about because you’ve got the kids wearing safety helmets. And these aren’t a recommendation – regulations require them on your whitewater rafting trip. If the kids are complaining about the sun in their eyes, add a ball cap underneath. And if you must wear sunglasses or eyeglasses, be sure to include a “leash” around your neck so they don’t go in the drink.
For more information on what to bring, check out our handy checklist and our article about what to wear on the river here.
Pay Attention to your Guide and The Rules of the River
White water rafting guides receive extensive training to really know the river, how to handle any situation, and of course to successfully navigate your raft down the river safely. They’re equipped to get the most novice riders, your children in this case, through a fun and enjoyable ride. Aside from rowing commands in the raft, a safety briefing always starts out the trip on a great foot. And before your raft touches the water, they’re going to give a detailed overview of guide commands as well as practice once you start down the river in the easy sections. Rafting with kids means they’ll be repeating them a few times throughout the trip. Some of the most common whitewater rafting commands are:
Put in: this is the start of the trip when the raft launches off into the river’s water
Take out: the end of the rafting trip and where the gear and raft get pulled out and loaded up on trailers to go back to the outpost
River Left/River Right: most guides will sit in the back of the boat looking down river. When something comes up that the kids will enjoy, they’ll use these commands. Watching for and pointing out wildlife, geologic features, and interesting river elements makes the trip entertaining in addition to the guide’s jokes!
Swimmer: whether intentional or not, a rider who falls in the river is a swimmer. If you or one of the kids falls in, the guide will shout out “Swimmer!” to get everyone’s attention as the members of the boat pull the swimmer back into the raft.
Flip: the raft has capsized. And now you and the kids are all swimmers. We’ll say that one was intentional.
Safety Kayak: safety kayakers will go with your raft to keep an eye on any hazards, new rapids, or rescue swimmers.
Yes, Take the Kids!
White water rafting is a great way to spend time outdoors with the kids and build amazing family memories you’ll cherish. Adventurous. Wild and wet. Everything a child loves. There doesn’t have to be hesitation if you’re taking the whole crew along on your next vacation.
When you’re in Colorado for your next trip, choose the best with the Kodi Rafting Team online or by phone at 970-668-1548. We’re here to get you and the kids out on the water today!