*Minimum age will increase during high water
Browns Canyon half-day and full-day white water rafting for families, first-timers & thrill seekers.
Browns Canyon rafting is the optimal family friendly white water adventure in the United States. It’s challenging and fun for experienced rafters, yet forgiving and inspiring for first-timers—making it suitable for a wide range of people.
Arkansas River rafting through Browns Canyon National Monument offers splashy, exciting rapids followed by calm pools where you can relax and take in spectacular granite boulders and majestic 14,000-foot peaks in the Heart of the Rockies. Browns Canyon white water rafting is the best way to experience one of Colorado’s newest National Monuments—recently designated as an International Dark Sky Park in December 2024.
Located just 15 minutes from both Buena Vista and Salida, Browns Canyon rafting offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a ½-day, full-day, or multi-day white water rafting and camping getaway.
Price listed includes transportation to the river and back to our office. Price listed does not include land and water access fees (9%) or gratuity for your guide.
Launch on the ultimate adventure with Wilderness Aware’s full-day Browns Canyon rafting trip. Dive deep into the breathtaking beauty of Browns Canyon National Monument as you navigate thrilling rapids and soak in the views of the Colorado Rockies. Join us for an unforgettable day of white water excitement and a riverside deli-style lunch.
Embark on an exhilarating journey with Wilderness Aware Rafting’s half-day trip through Browns Canyon, where every moment is packed with adrenaline-pumping excitement. Delve into the heart of this iconic national monument, tackling thrilling rapids while surrounded by inspiring natural beauty. Perfect for adventurers short on time but hungry for thrills.
We guarantee the best deal on the Arkansas River—or we’ll cover the difference. Come see why more rafters choose Wilderness Aware over the rest.
A full-day Browns Canyon trip covers 18 miles and departs at 9:30 am and returns to the office at 4pm. Half-day trips run about 2 to 2.5 hours, covering approximately 10 miles with departures at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm.
Rapids on the Browns Canyon rafting section of the Arkansas river feature class III-IV rapids offering fun rapids suitable for most families and rafters who are new to the sport while navigating the waters of Browns Canyon National Monument.
It’s important to dress appropriately for your Browns Canyon rafting trip. We recommend avoiding cotton—it stays wet and can make you cold. Instead, wear a swimsuit or quick-dry clothes, secure footwear (no flip-flops or Crocs), and sunglasses with a strap. Don’t forget sunscreen, water, and a dry change of clothes for after your adventure. Check out our packing list page for the full list of what to wear and bring!
Yes! Browns Canyon is one of the most family-friendly rafting trips on the Arkansas River. Depending on water levels, kids of at least 6 years old and 50 pounds and up can join the adventure. For younger kids ages 4 and up, the Lower Browns Canyon offers a safe, fun, and scenic stretch of river perfect for first-timers and those seeking a more relaxed trip.
The Browns Canyon section of the Arkansas River features an 18-mile stretch of fun, family-friendly whitewater. Notable named rapids include the Canyon Doors, Pinball, Zoom Flume, Eggbeater and The Squeeze, Big Drop, The Staircase, Widowmaker – Including the Toilet Bowl, Graveyard, Raft Ripper, Gilligan’s Island, Seidel’s Suckhole, and Twin Falls.
Reservations should be made as soon as you know your plans, although seats are sometimes available up to the last minute. Late registration is on a space available basis.
Get set for your adventure! Here, you’ll find everything you need to gear up and get ready. From essential packing lists and detailed directions to convenient waiver forms and comprehensive river maps, we’ve got you covered. Prepare to dive into the excitement of white water rafting with confidence and ease.
Choose from a variety of Colorado rivers, day trips, and multi-day trips to find just the right option for you and your crew. Better hustle, because they’re booking up quick!
Wilderness Aware Rafting is proud to be a Colorado & Buena Vista white water rafting outfitter under the National Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. All or part of this operation is conducted on Public Lands under special permit from the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Wilderness Aware Rafting is an equal opportunity service provider and employer.
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