Our most advanced white water trip

2 Day Extreme Colorado Rafting Trip

OUR MOST EXTREME CLASS IV–V WHITEWATER TRIP

2 Day Extreme Colorado Rafting Trip

The 2-Day Extreme rafting trip is designed for guests who want to experience the most exciting sections of the Arkansas River in a single unforgettable journey. Over two days, you’ll raft both The Numbers and the legendary Royal Gorge, two of Colorado’s most famous whitewater runs.
Starting at
$604
Per Person
DETAILS
  • 5-Star Rating on TripAdvisor
  • Free River Gear
  • Gourmet meals prepared by your guides throughout the trip
  • Professional Photos Taken on each section
  • Great for team-building
  • 50 Years Guiding Colorado’s Best Rivers

Extreme Class IV–V Rafting Trips in Colorado

Experienced rafters and active folks looking for the most adrenaline per mile will enjoy the technical maneuvering of the Numbers combined with the big waves and spectacular scenery of the Royal Gorge. While at camp, kick back, relax, and unpack the day while our most experienced and talented guides prepare a curated dinner around a roaring campfire and prepare for tomorrow’s adventure.

Why Choose Wilderness Aware for the 2-Day Extreme Trip?

The Arkansas River offers incredible whitewater, but what makes this trip exceptional is how it’s guided and organized.

The Wilderness Aware Difference

Over 50 Years of River Experience

Wilderness Aware has been guiding guests on Colorado rivers since 1976, and our guides are the biggest reason people return year after year.

Expert Guides for the Best Whitewater

Both The Numbers and the Royal Gorge require precise navigation and teamwork. Our most senior guides combine technical skill with clear and proactive communication so guests understand what’s ahead and feel confident throughout the trip.

Thorough Trip Planning

This itinerary is designed to allow guests to enjoy the excitement of more challenging rapids while still taking time to relax, enjoy the scenery, and share stories around camp.

Adventure with Professional Leadership

The 2-Day Extreme trip delivers top-tier whitewater! Our approach emphasizes preparation, teamwork, and experienced leadership so guests feel supported throughout their excursion.

Guests often say that rafting with Wilderness Aware feels both exciting and well-managed, which is why many recommend us to friends and family.

Pricing

  • Adult: $604

Price listed includes transportation to the put-in and back to our office. Price listed does not include land and water access fees (9%) or gratuity for your guide.

What To Look Forward to:

  • Running the famous Numbers rapids (1–7)
  • Rafting the remarkable Royal Gorge
  • Experiencing Class IV whitewater on two legendary river sections
  • Camping beside the Arkansas River
  • Enjoying freshly prepared riverside meals
  • Seeing Colorado’s Rocky Mountain scenery from the river

This trip combines technical whitewater, inspiring landscapes, and a classic overnight river adventure.

CHOOSE YOUR OPTION

$167
$167
$167
$167
$167
$167

Key Details

The 2-Day Extreme trip is ideal for guests who:

  • Want to experience two of the most exciting rafting sections in Colorado
  • Enjoy active outdoor adventures
  • Are comfortable paddling through Class IV whitewater
  • Want a multi-day rafting experience with camping

This trip may not be the best fit for guests who:

  • Prefer calmer scenic floats
  • Are traveling with young children
  • Are uncomfortable with high-end rapids

Not sure if this trip is right for you? Call us at: 719-395-2112 or 1-800-462-7238. Our staff will help you choose the perfect trip for your group!

What to Bring:
  • Quick-Dry Clothes – Wear under your wetsuit (if wearing one)
  • Avoid cotton—it stays wet and makes you cold
  • Quick-dry athletic wear or board shorts work great
  • Secure Footwear
  • Sneakers, water shoes, or sport sandals with straps (like Tevas or Chacos)
  • NO flip-flops, Crocs, or bare feet

Other Items to Bring:

  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses with a strap
  • Water bottle (or purchase one in our retail store)
  • Complete change of dry clothes for after the trip (leave in your car)
  • Towel for post-trip
  • Cash/card for gratuities for your guide (15-20% is customary for great service)

When You NEED a Wetsuit (provided by us upon request):

  • May & Early June: Water is VERY cold (45-50°F) from peak snowmelt – wetsuit is essential
  • Late June & Early July: Still quite cold (50-55°F) – wetsuit highly recommended
  • Cold or cloudy days: Even in summer, borrow a wetsuit if the weather isn’t warm

When a Wetsuit is Optional:

  • Mid-July through August: Warmer water and air temps, but many guests still prefer wetsuits
  • Hot, sunny days: You may be comfortable without.
  • Our Recommendation: When in doubt, speak with our experienced and knowledgeable guides who can provide you with advice after you check in based upon the day’s weather and water conditions.

Provided Cold Weather Gear:

  • Splash jacket (wind/water protection)
  • Wetsuit
  • Water shoes

Weather Note: Mountain weather can change quickly. Even if it’s warm when you arrive, afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. This is why wetsuits and splash jackets are always available.
Still Have Questions? Check out our complete Packing List page or call us at 719-395-2112.

Rafting Season

The 2-Day Extreme trip typically runs May through early September, depending on river conditions.

Early Season (May – June)

Snowmelt produces high water and large waves, making The Numbers and Royal Gorge particularly dynamic.

Mid Season (July)

Rapids remain exciting while becoming slightly more friendly as water levels drop.

Late Season (August – September)

Lower water levels reveal more of the riverbed and canyon geology, creating a more technical rafting experience.

Throughout the season, our guides adjust each trip to match the conditions and comfort level of the group.

  1. Check in at our office 45 minutes before your trip departure.
  2. Gear up in your river clothes, guide fitted lifejacket, helmet and grab your paddle.
  3. 15 minutes before departure, your trip leader will give you a thorough safety orientation.
  4. Load up in a Wilderness Aware vehicle for a short ride to the river.
  5. You’ll help unload the boats and equipment and assist your guide setting up your raft.
  6. You’ll learn how to paddle then finally…
  7. You are on the river and the fun begins!
  8. Stop along the way for a delicious riverside lunch.
  9. Before you know it, you arrive at the take-out.
  10. Change into dry clothes and settle in around the campfire.
  11. Get a good night’s sleep with a refreshing, cool Colorado breeze.
  12. Wake up to the smell of coffee and a hot breakfast.
  13. Jump back on the boat and crush it on the river.
  14. At the conclusion of the second day, check out your photos and say goodbye to your guide.
  15. Share your adventure with friends and family. Leave us a review and tag us on Facebook.

We get that plans change, so we’ve designed our cancellation policy with our guests’ busy schedules in mind.

Multi Day Trip Cancellation Policy (NON-discounted reservations):

  • 5 Day Cancellation Policy
  • Your trip is fully refundable (minus a $50 per person cancellation fee) if your trip is cancelled more than 5 days before the trip’s check-in time. If cancellations are made within 5 days, no refund will be provided for any reason. If you booked using a discount, your trip is non refundable but can be rescheduled with at least 5 days’ notice.

View full Multi-Day Cancellation Policy

Wilderness Aware reserves the right to modify or cancel your trip due to extremely high or low water conditions. We will give you as much notice as possible, if possible, of conditions that may affect your scheduled trip. Please note that if a suitable section of the river is available for your group and you choose not to participate, no refund will be provided. If Wilderness Aware cancels your trip, a full refund will be provided.

Our office staff would be happy to assist you.

Please give us a call at: 719-395-2112 or 1-800-462-7238

PICTURE YOURSELF RAFTING THE EXTREME ARK TRIP

REVIEWS

TripAdvisor logo

5.0

(1,500+ Reviews)

Google Logo

4.9

(740+ Reviews)

Facebook logo

4.9

(300+ Reviews)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Many guests consider this trip one of the most exciting rafting adventures in Colorado because it combines both The Numbers and the Royal Gorge, two of the most famous whitewater sections on the Arkansas River.

Experience is helpful but not required. Adventurous first-time rafters who are comfortable following guide instructions often enjoy this trip.

The trip includes Class IV whitewater, meaning guests should expect powerful waves, fast current, and active paddling.

 

Guests should bring quick-dry clothing, secure footwear, and personal overnight items. A detailed packing list is provided before the trip.

 

 

The trip runs on the Arkansas River near Buena Vista and Cañon City, Colorado, two of the state’s most popular rafting destinations.

Our guides evaluate river conditions daily and adjust trip plans as necessary to maintain a safe and enjoyable experience.

Guests often mention:

  • Calm, knowledgeable guides
  • Clear leadership on challenging rapids
  • Thoughtful trip organization
  • A balance of excitement and reassurance

Many say the 2-Day Extreme trip became the highlight of their Colorado adventure.

PREPARE FOR YOUR TRIP

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.

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SPOTS ARE FILLING FAST!

BOOK YOUR TRIP NOW

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!

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Years In Business
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