Bachelor & Bachelorette Party Rafting Trips in Colorado
Before taking on one of life’s biggest adventures, why not plan a bachelor or bachelorette party rafting trip in Colorado? It’s an unforgettable experience. Whitewater rafting offers a fun alternative to the traditional booze-fueled weekend in Vegas. Our trips cater to everyone—from Class V adrenaline junkies to those seeking a laid-back float. Plus, we handle ALL the planning. All we need from you is a date! Why Take Your Bachelor or Bachelorette Party Rafting? 1) Make It a Party to Remember Be the friend whose bachelor or bachelorette party everyone still talks about years later. Whitewater rafting is a one-of-a-kind adventure. Once you step into the raft, it’s you, your crew, and the journey ahead. Whether it’s a one-time celebration or the start of a new tradition, this is a party no one will forget. 2) Trips Are Highly Customizable at an Affordable Price Our guides love hosting bachelor and bachelorette parties and will accommodate special requests to make your trip unforgettable. Want to surprise the bride or groom with their favorite Colorado microbrews at camp? Or perhaps have a spread of cupcakes and champagne waiting at the take-out? We can make it happen! With over 48 years of experience, we’ve hosted countless parties and always have fresh ideas. If you need inspiration, ask one of our reservations specialists—they love party planning! With trips starting at just $79, you can create an unforgettable experience without the hefty price tag. 3) Easy Peasy Planning, Let Us Handle It To pull off the perfect Colorado whitewater rafting bachelor or bachelorette party, all we need from you is a date. The moment your group arrives at our Buena Vista headquarters, we take care of everything. We provide all the gear you’ll need, plus fun souvenirs like waterproof disposable cameras or necklace koozies. We also handle shuttle logistics, meals, and any special requests to make this the best party ever. 4) Trips for Everyone From Beginners to Experts As one of the first whitewater rafting outfitters in Buena Vista and the Arkansas Valley, we’ve hosted countless bachelor and bachelorette parties. Over the years, we’ve expanded our selection of trips. You can choose from easygoing float trips to ultra-extreme Class V adventures. We offer half-day to five-day rafting and camping trips. Want more excitement? Add horseback riding or zip-lining to your adventure. We’ll handle all the planning so you can focus on the fun! What Our Customers Saying There’s no better way to trust an epic trip than hearing from those who’ve been there. Our bachelor and bachelorette groups come for the thrill but leave with memories to last a lifetime. From adrenaline-pumping rapids to laughter-filled nights around the campfire, our guests rave about the unique experience rafting offers for any pre-wedding celebration. Here’s what some of our past guests had to say: “We just finished a three day rafting and camping trip with Wilderness Aware out of Buena Vista, Co. Our Guides, Ashley and Gomez were great. They did a great job explaining the river and keeping us informed of what rapids were coming up. Wilderness Aware guides work extremely hard to ensure you have a great experience. They offer a ton of different trip options so if camping is not your jam you can stay in your choice of accommodations. We will definitely be back. – Brian Detherage, via a 5-Star Google Review “Amazing time rafting different parts of the Arkansas River! We did the 4- day Inn to Inn trip and felt like VIP’s! 5-Stars all around from accommodations, food and fun! Our guide Ashlynn was a true professional! Enjoyed every minute! – Shar Carson, via a 5-Star Google Review “Great trip, Ashley was a great guide. Would highly recommend WAR to anyone looking for a great experience.” – John Randels, via a 5-Star Google Review
Five Reasons Why You Should Take Your Family Rafting ASAP
Now that the river’s flow has dipped from high water, it’s the ideal time to bring the kids! From bonding with your loved ones to experiencing the thrill of the rapids, we’ll show you why it’s the perfect time to plan your family rafting trip. Let’s dive in and discover the excitement waiting for you on the water! Top 5 Reasons to Take Your Family Rafting Experience teamwork Gain a love of the outdoors Develop self-confidence Learn about the history of the area Develop a whole new cool vocabulary, like chickie pail and PFDs. Bonding Beyond Boundaries Rafting isn’t just about navigating the rapids; it’s about navigating the bonds within your family. Imagine the joy of sharing laughter and thrills as you conquer the waters together. This reason is all about strengthening connections and creating those heartwarming family moments that last a lifetime. Age Generally, trips are designed for ages 4 and up. But, this depends on water levels and the class of rapids. Each of our Colorado rafting trips has a different minimum age that is related to how challenging the whitewater is, so check detailed trip info to see if your kid can come along. Safety Whitewater rafting has inherent risks, but the risk is greatly reduced if you work with a reputable rafting company, like Wilderness Aware Rafting. Every one of our guides undergoes more training than is required in Colorado to ensure that they know how to lead a safe trip, and what to do if anything goes wrong. Choose the Right River Arkansas River rafting is ideal for families! Beginning high in the Colorado Rockies near the Continental Divide, the Arkansas River delivers more than 100 miles of whitewater – making it the most popular rafting river in the West. The Arkansas River’s appeal lies in its wide variety of trips and easy accessibility. Embark on Family Adventure with Lower Browns Canyon Half-Day Trip Discover the thrill of white water rafting tailored for beginners and families on Lower Browns Canyon Half-Day Trip. Starting downstream of challenging rapids, this excursion is perfect for children as young as four, grandparents, and rafting novices. The fast-paced river guarantees just enough excitement, offering some of Colorado’s best family rafting. Enjoy scenic views of Collegiate Peaks and lush pastures, all while creating unforgettable memories. Our Lower Browns Canyon trip brings the joy of rafting without intimidating rapids, making it the ideal adventure for every family member. Take a short drive from Denver or Breckenridge and experience the best beginner and family whitewater rafting in Colorado! Do you have older kiddos? Pro tip: book an overnight Colorado rafting trip and get the bonus of sleeping under the stars. Being on the river together is an incredible bonding experience that also brings lots of smiles. This trip is perfect for ages 8+. At Wilderness Aware, we’ve been the heartbeat of Colorado white water rafting adventures since 1976, and we’re thrilled to have shared the exhilarating world of family rafting with you. As the premier outfitter in Buena Vista, we understand the transformative power of the rapids—the rush, the laughter, and the shared triumphs that families experience on our guided trips. We invite you to join us on the river and create your own unforgettable moments. From our family to yours, we can’t wait to welcome you aboard for a Buena Vista white water rafting adventure that goes beyond the ordinary. Seize the opportunity, make a splash, and let the memories flow!
Dolores River Flow Outlook – 2023 Boating
If you’re a fan of remote, uncrowded river trips, the Dolores River needs to be high on your bucket list. However, due to low Dolores River flow water levels, the river has been unavailable to rafting for several years. But with recent heavy snowfall in the San Juan Mountain Range, the Dolores River has once again opened to boaters for the 2023 season! Join us as we explore the Dolores River and provide everything you need to know to plan your next adventure. Dolores River Boating Outlook Heavy snowfall in the region has raised the Dolores River’s water levels, making it possible for boaters of all types, from rafts to kayaks, to return to the river in 2023. The Dolores River flows are projected to be around 2000 – 3000 cubic feet per second (cfs) for most of the season, with peak flows in May and tapering off in June. The Dolores river rafting and kayaking season is expected to run from late April through mid-June or longer. History of the Dolores River Canyon The Dolores River canyon runs through Colorado and Utah, originating in the San Juan Mountains and ultimately flowing into the Colorado River. The river was named by Spanish explorers, who called it “El Rio de Nuestra Senora de los Dolores,” which translates to “The River of Our Lady of Sorrows.” The Dolores River is also known for the McPhee Dam, which was constructed in the 1980s to provide water for nearby towns and agricultural operations. The dam has had a significant impact on the river’s flow, as it diverts a significant amount of water from the river for storage. Highlights of a Dolores River trip A trip down the Dolores River Canyon is a true wilderness adventure. Boaters can expect to encounter thrilling rapids, stunning scenery, and a variety of wildlife with three sections distinctly different from each other. The river begins its journey to the Colorado River just below McFee Reservoir and enters Ponderosa Gorge defined by its dense Pine and Douglas Fir forest, steeper river gradient and the infamous Snaggletooth rapid. Along with the spectacular natural environment, the Gorge features interesting human history with ancient Anasazi ruins that can be explored along the river. After a 3 day journey, the river changes character in Slick rock Canyon or Little Glen Canyon, which is reminiscent of the now flooded Glen Canyon under Lake Powell with its stunning sandstone geology, and tamer waters. This section of river is being studied as a potential wilderness area featuring numerous side canyons. Opportunities to hike and discover petroglyphs along canyon walls provide evidence of the Anasazi and Ute people who lived in these areas long before modern day settlers. The final section of the Dolores from Bedrock to the confluence with the Colorado River features bigger rapids including Stateline – a long continuous class IV rapid that raises the excitement level! Amazing side canyon hikes are prevalent and rival those found in the Grand Canyon. All three sections together comprise one of the longest stretches of continuous whitewater rafting in the continental United States with 170 miles of river. This execration which can take 10 day trip through the Dolores River’s Gateway Canyon that many compare to a trip down the Grand Canyon. Planning Your Trip Wilderness Aware is excited to announce Dolores River rafting trips are now open for booking for the 2023 season from now until mid-June. Our experienced guides will lead you on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure down the Dolores River, providing all the necessary equipment and expertise, including outstanding meals and riverside camping along the way. We offer Dolores River multi-day trips of 3, 6 or up to 10 days, so you can choose the option that works best for you. If you’re interested in embarking on a private boating trip, it’s important to note that a Dolores River permit is required for any launch on the Dolores River. Permits are issued through a lottery system and can be obtained through the Bureau of Land Management. Be sure to plan ahead, as Dolores River permits can be difficult to obtain. The Dolores River is an incredible wilderness adventure that should not be missed. This hidden gem of a river is on par with some of the most popular whitewater rivers in Arizona and Idaho. With the recent increase in Dolores River flow water levels, the river has once again opened for rafting in 2023. Learn more about Dolores River rafting and book your adventure with Wilderness Aware Rafting to experience the thrill of the rapids, the beauty of the scenery, and the peace of mind that comes with having an experienced guide leading the way. We look forward to sharing this incredible river with you!
Spring Multi-Day Trips
Here at Wilderness Aware, we offer a variety of multi-day rafting trips. If you’re unfamiliar with our multi-day options, let us introduce you. Inclusive to all skill levels and ages, our multi-day trips are next level. Set across six different rivers in two states, rafting trips are first and foremost about time in the water. Our skilled guides run through a safety and gear check, then get you straight to the water to begin your whitewater adventure. The day doesn’t stop once you get off the boat; here’s a look at what to expect on a multi-day trip. Camping in Comfort We fill one of our rafts, lovingly named the “Pig Rig,” to the brim with all the supplies you could need on your campout. This big rig coasts down the river before your trip begins, and we set up a fully equipped campsite. Expect access to a bathroom system set up for your privacy and needs. We also set up a fully equipped kitchen serving everything but your typical camp food. Dining in Style What kind of food, you ask? We have fun creating our camp menus, and our guests rave about the results. Depending on the day, you can expect things like spinach artichoke dip as an appetizer, salad, chicken, steak, or salmon on the grill, roast veggies, dutch oven lasagna, cheesecake for dessert, and tea and coffee after dinner. In the morning, wake up to an omelet bar, bacon, sausage, and hot coffee. Chill Vibes Our signature setup of comfy chairs around a cozy campfire awaits after a long day on the river. This is a place to talk, share stories, play games, relax, and enjoy the view. Meal prep and dishwashing are all taken care of, making it the ultimate wind down after a day of rafting. Trips range in location, price, and number of days. The best way to choose the right package for you is to read about each of our multi-day trips. Claimed to be “one of the best times of my life” from a happy guest, try an adrenaline-filled multi-day rafting trip this spring and see for yourself.
Ultimate Travel Snacks – Play Hard, Snack Hard
In a quick departure from our regular programming, we bring you a compilation of ultimate travel snacks to take with you on the road or in the raft. These snack ideas travel well and offer a little more than the utility Cliff Bar stuck to the bottom of your bag for months. Mix and match or put your own spin on these suggestions: 1. Bada Bean Bada Boom Roasted beans in a bag? Are you sure? Fear not, these little beans are delightfully crunchy, salty, and tasty. These packaged beans can take a beating and still hold up for an unexpectedly satisfying snack. 2. Patagonia Spicy Mango Sweet and spicy, these ethically sourced mango bits are the warhorse of travel snacks, offering high fiber and Vitamins A & C. 3. Clif Espresso Bar Tired of the usual Clif Bar? The crunch of espresso beans in this version adds intrigue and a caffeinated boost to the regular Clif Bar experience. 4. Epic Beef Jerky / Kettle Pickle Chips It’s a hamburger, really. Eat them together or on their own for a solid snack. 5. For the Cooler Whether you’ve got the Coleman, the Yeti, or the Dometic, push your cooler snacks further than a couple of cold beers. Throw in some hard-boiled eggs, prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella sticks, and any cheese sticks, or go wild and make some ginger scallion noodles in a reusable tub. 6. Banana Bread Another hard-working, potassium-enriched snack that not only satisfies but uses up all those spotted bananas on your counter. 7. YumEarth Licorice These gummy snacks are organic and sophisticated, with simple ingredients that satisfy just the same. 8. Instant Coffee I see you cringing Aeropress users. It may be low-brow, but nothing beats instant coffee when you’re tired, and your bones are aching. 9. Nora Tempura Seaweed Have you ever had tempura seaweed? One bite of these and you’ll be ordering them by case. Thank them later for replenishing vitamins A, B6, B12, protein, iron, and fiber. 10. LMNT packets Use these electrolyte packets to both hydrate and replace salt.
What Guides Do in the Off-Season
River rafting may be the ultimate seasonal job, but by nature, it will sadly close at the end of each summer. What happens to guides when the season is over? Luckily, rafting guides are as resilient as they come and do a number of different jobs throughout the year. They vary from person to person, and we love seeing what each individual brings to the job each year. Here’s a glimpse of what some off-season gigs look like: 1. International Rafting Rafting guides passionate about the sport often take their skills abroad, following warm weather to explore new rapids worldwide. From tropical rivers to remote mountain streams, international rafting allows you to combine work with adventure, exploring diverse landscapes and cultures. It’s an opportunity for those who want to spend the entire year chasing thrills and challenging themselves in different environments while staying connected to the world of rafting. 2. Study The off-season offers rafting guides a chance to grow outside the boat. Whether you’re on a college break, taking online courses, or preparing for certifications, winter is the ideal time to enhance your knowledge or pursue new skills. This downtime can also be used to plan for the upcoming season, attend workshops, or even take part in outdoor leadership programs. By focusing on personal development during the winter months, you can set yourself up for even greater success when the river season resumes. 3. Switch Seasons When the snow starts to fall, many rafting guides make a smooth transition from river adventures to winter sports. Snowboarding or skiing offers an active winter alternative, and many guides quickly adapt to snow-covered terrain. If you’re drawn to the snow but don’t have the skills to instruct, resorts often offer seasonal jobs where you can still enjoy the winter lifestyle. Embracing this change allows you to enjoy the outdoors in both summer and winter, ensuring year-round adventure. 4. Restaurant Gigs Bartending, serving, or working at local restaurants can be a reliable way to fund your off-season. These seasonal jobs allow you to stay active and social while still earning an income between rafting seasons. Many guides work at resorts or eateries in the winter, ensuring they have a paycheck while waiting for summer rafting trips to begin. It’s a way to stay connected to the community, meet new people, and enjoy flexible hours while still pursuing your passion for adventure. 5. Volunteer Work Volunteering abroad provides an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience, especially near rivers or rafting hotspots. Whether helping with environmental conservation or working with local communities, volunteer programs can deepen your connection to different cultures and outdoor environments. Many rafting guides volunteer to expand their skill sets, gain new perspectives, and potentially open doors for future guiding opportunities. It’s an enriching way to make a positive impact while traveling and growing your rafting career. 6. Teach English Teaching English abroad is an attractive option for native speakers who want to travel while earning a living. This work is available in a variety of countries, often near tourist hotspots, and can be an excellent way to immerse yourself in a new culture. Many rafting guides take advantage of teaching English in the off-season to fund their adventures. In addition to earning money, it’s an opportunity to make connections that could lead to future travel opportunities or outdoor-related work in other countries.
Planning in the Off-Season for Effortless Fun When It’s On.
In between the hiking, mountain biking, skiing and adventuring in the Colorado rafting off-season, plan an epic whitewater trip now and skip the stress next summer. A little planning now can lead to an effortless adventure on the water in the upcoming season. Choose the best time and location and we’ll do the rest. You might even find you have the time to knock out more than one river. Pick Your Friends, Then Pick a River There are more than six rivers to choose from in Colorado and Arizona. Likely your location will determine which river you choose, but with enough time and planning, you can make any river your adventure destination. At 120 miles southwest of Denver, the Arkansas River is a great option if coming in from the Front Range. It’s also suitable for a variety of skill levels, making it ideal for young children and expert adults. Check out our site for detailed overviews of the all the rivers to choose from, with a breakdown of length and difficulty level. Take the time now to create a successful adventure next summer. Pick a Time When rafting, it’s important to know conditions. Rafting season runs from April to August with varying temperatures and rapids throughout the summer. June holds its reign as the most adventurous month as warmer weather and snow melt makes for big rapids and big adventures. For a calmer ride, plan to set out in July and August, but always check before you go as weather and snow can cause cancellations. Know Your Gear The month you choose will determine your gear. Wetsuits are available to rent in the colder months, as well as booties and paddle jackets. We provide all rafting equipment including ponchos, wool sweaters and waterproof storage for personal items. It’s recommended you also bring your own warmer clothes for after rafting in the colder months. Sunscreen, shorts, swim suits, sunglasses and a water bottle are essentials you don’t want to be without in the hot summer months. Read more on our FAQ page for other helpful tips to prepare for your trip.
See Colorado’s Brightest Stars on an Overnight Rafting Trip
Back in time, before electricity, the world turned dark at night and became lit by stars so bright and numerous that the sky became its own form of entertainment. Billions of stars shone, along with the Milky Way, and it was natural to see so many that they littered the sky with light. However, due to modern light pollution, 80 percent of Americans can no longer see the Milky Way. This means that most Americans no longer benefit from the health and mental benefits of living under a truly dark sky. If you’ve ever been with someone who sees real stars in a truly dark sky for the first time—or remember that experience for yourself—you know the power of those dark skies and the stars that accompany them. It is always a jaw-dropping moment of amazement as the scope of the universe comes into view. How to See Colorado’s Brightest Stars To see the Colorado night sky lit up, it’s imperative to get far away from a city or even a town. This is especially true if you want to be able to see the Milky Way. The reason for this is light pollution—stray light from urban areas scattered into the night sky. Light pollution is stray light from parking lots, sport complexes, street lights, and other human activity. It’s a combined effect of scattered light from these things that manifests as a glow in the night sky. The larger and more developed a city is, the more light pollution it tends to produce. Colorado, with its swath of National Forests and rural mountain towns, is an ideal location for stargazing because of its lack of light pollution. In addition to this, many of Colorado’s prime stargazing locations are at higher altitudes, and this is key to an even better stargazing experience. At high altitudes, the air is thinner and drier, creating less air between you and the stars, which means better seeing conditions, or rather, less atmospheric distortion. So, here’s what you need for optimal stargazing—zero light pollution and high altitude. And, what better place than alongside a remote river in the Colorado mountains! Get a light show like never before on an overnight Arkansas River rafting trip. The stars visible from the Arkansas River shine as though electricity has never been invented. On a crisp, cloudless night, you’ll ooh and aww over the stars and make memories to last a lifetime. Give you and your loved ones the gift of a truly amazing stargazing experience on overnight rafting trip in Colorado.
The “Off-the-Beaten-Path” Colorado Bucket List
So many Colorado bucket lists include super popular places like Rocky Mountain National Park, Garden of the Gods, and Mesa Verde National Park. And while these places are pretty incredible, we’d like to share those under-the-radar locations that are free of crowds and just as spectacular. We’ve traveled to all corners of Colorado, and here’s our Colorado bucket list for those who prefer to go against the grain. 1. Browns Canyon National Monument Browns Canyon is located between Buena Vista and Salida, Colorado, and the best way to see it is by raft! Wilderness Aware rafting offers epic Browns Canyon rafting trips including full, half, and multi-day trips that take guests through this stunning canyon where the best views are from the river. 2. Miramonte Reservoir Miramonte Reservoir is Norwood’s largest body of water, covers 405 surface acres, and is considered one of Norwood’s greatest outdoor recreational assets, offering many family-friendly outdoor activities. And the best part? It’s practically free! 3. Highway of Legends National Scenic Byway This gorgeous highway is a jaw-dropping surprise for anyone who discovers it for the first time. Located in southern Colorado, the Scenic Highway of Legends ties Walsenburg, La Veta, Cuchara, Stonewall, Trinidad, and Aguilar together with a ribbon of asphalt that journeys through some of the nation’s most beautiful national forests, state parks, wildlife areas, and mountain ranges. For a bonus, turn on the GPS-enabled audio tour during your drive. 4. Public Star Parties at Smokey Jack Observatory Dark Skies of the Wet Mountain Valley hosts public star parties at Smokey Jack Observatory in Westcliffe, Colorado’s first IDA dark sky community. These are free events and all are open to the public. These events include Visual Public Star Parties, Electronic Assisted Astronomy Public Parties, Open Public Observing Nights, and Public Solar Observing Day Sessions. 5. Royal Gorge Bridge & Park The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park in Canon City is a 360-acre amusement park located along the edge of the Royal Gorge around both ends of the Royal Gorge Bridge. The bridge crosses the gorge 955 feet above the Arkansas River and is the second-highest suspension bridge in the world. 6. Camp Amache & The Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Sites Take a trip back in time to remember some of our nation’s darker days at the Camp Amache & the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Sites. Camp Amache in Granada served as a Japanese Internment Camp during WWI and The Sand Creek Massacre Site, in nearby Eads, honors the Cheyenne and Arapahoe people who were brutally massacred by the U.S. Army in the American Indian Wars that occurred on November 29, 1864. 7. Colorado State Forest State Park Located on either side of Cameron Pass, Colorado State Forest State Park is in a 10,000-foot-high cleft between the Never Summer and Medicine Bow mountain ranges. Deep coniferous woods and willow-covered streams are the ideal habitat for many animals, including moose. The park is actually named the moose capital of Colorado. 8. Fruit & Wine Byway The Palisade Fruit & Wine Byway, divided into three routes, is a favorite of automobile travelers and bicyclists from around the world. Experience the beautiful orchards, lavender gardens, world-class vineyards, premium wineries, and fresh farm market fruit stands along the way. Explore historic downtown Palisade, tour along the scenic Colorado River, and enjoy some of the best vistas of the Grand Valley. 9. Comanche National Grassland The Comanche National Grassland includes over 440, 000 acres in southeastern Colorado. On the Comanche National Grassland, you can explore southeastern Colorado’s rich history. The Grassland has many stories to tell, from dinosaurs roaming the shoreline of a vast lake 150 million years ago to Mexican and American traders traveling the Santa Fe Trail 150 years ago. 10. The Yampa River If there’s one thing you need to check off your list this summer in Steamboat Springs, it has to be tubing the Yampa River. A local favorite and must-do activity, tubing the Yampa offers a chance to experience downtown Steamboat from a comfortable inner tube while splashing in the refreshing waters of the Yampa River.
Three Days in Buena Vista, Colorado
From the moment you drive into Buena Vista, you can tell it offers limitless outdoor recreational opportunities. In addition to this, Buena Vista also has a darling Main Street made up of boutique shops selling vintage and handmade items, bike gear, art, and more. It’s hip, filled with fun energy, and it has great dining and entertainment options too. Last, but certainly not least, is the Gold Medal Arkansas River. World-renowned for its amazing whitewater, Buena Vista’s pride and joy has brought rafters and kayakers to the Arkansas River Valley decade after decade. With so many options, how will you ever squeeze everything in during a three-day visit? Contact Wilderness Aware Rafting, we can help you choose the best things to do in Buena Vista for you and your group! Day One: A Full-Day Raft Trip with Wilderness Aware Choose from Wilderness Aware’s several full-day rafting trips on the Arkansas River. Our most popular trip takes guests through the stunning Browns Canyon National Monument. But for those of you who want a bit more of a challenge, a rafting trip on the Numbers may be what you’re looking for. Our full-day trips include a delicious riverside lunch. After your trip, swing through House Rock Kitchen for dinner on the patio, then take a walk along the river as the sun sets. There’s also a good chance you’ll catch music at the Lawn at South Main, so bring your dancing shoes. Day Two: Adventures on Land Start day two with a Leadville zipline tour arranged by Wilderness Aware. Zipline high in the snow-capped Rocky Mountains surrounded by clear, blue skies and tall, majestic old pine trees. Located close to Vail and Breckenridge near Leadville, Colorado, this 2-hour tour is great for all skill levels and kids 55 or more lbs. This amazing tour is available year-round and includes six separate double zip lines. Time to grab lunch in town! Visit our local favorites, Simple Eatery or Crave for a variety of delicious options sure to please everyone in your group. For dinner, head to Wesley & Rose in the Surf Hotel or Eddyline Brewery in South Main, and then watch the sunset over the Collegiate Peaks. Day Three: Time to Relax After two high adventure days, you’ll no doubt want a day to relax. We recommend starting your morning off with a stroll down Main Street, where you can grab breakfast at The Blend or The Roastery. As shops open up, you can go in and out and discover something special to take home for yourself or a loved one. After this, head to Mt. Princeton Hot Springs Resort for a relaxing day of soaking and laying poolside. There’s no need to worry if you have kids with you. The water slide at Mt. Princeton will keep them entertained for hours. If you want just a bit more adventure after your soak, continue driving up Chalk Creek to St. Elmo, where a large population of chipmunks is happy to eat sunflower seeds straight out of your hands. N“o need to bring your own, the St. Elmo general store sells seeds for this exact purpose. When you’re ready for dinner, The Buena Viking serves the best burgers in town. For a post-dinner cocktail, no one mixes a better drink than the Deerhammer. Wrap up your Buena Vista getaway knowing you’ve experienced the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. From exploring charming Main Street and soaking in mountain views to tackling thrilling rapids on the Arkansas River, every moment offers something memorable. Whether you’re here for high-energy excursions or laid-back leisure, Buena Vista delivers it all. And if you’re looking to make the most of your trip, nothing compares to the excitement of whitewater rafting in Buena Vista—an unforgettable way to experience the heart of Colorado’s outdoor playground.