A tailor-made journey with Wilderness Aware Rafting, the Inn-to-Inn is a customizable luxury rafting trip, where you will raft some of the most popular Colorado river stretches, dine at local eateries, stay at local a local inn and enjoy a bonus “off river” adventure.
Your adventure begins with heart-pounding white water rafting excursions, expertly guided by our team. But this trip isn’t just about the river. Explore charming Buena Vista with your knowledgeable guide. From mom-and-pop dining experiences, to quaint cafes showcasing regional specialties, indulge in a culinary journey that reflects the essence of the area.
If you’re looking for a multi-day river trip with old-fashioned camping, take a look at our “traditional” Arkansas River overnight rafting trips. We like to think of our Inn to Inn trip as a unique rafting and glamping combo trip!
The Arkansas River offers many rafting opportunities, but what makes an Inn-to-Inn trip exceptional is how the experience is guided and organized.
Decades of Arkansas River Experience
Wilderness Aware has been guiding rafting trips in Colorado since 1976, and our team has deep familiarity with the Arkansas River and surrounding mountain communities.
Thoughtfully Designed Multi-Day Experience
We coordinate river trips, lodging, transportation, and logistics so guests can focus on enjoying the adventure rather than managing details.
Guides Who Care About the Whole Experience
Our guides are not only skilled river runners but also knowledgeable hosts who enjoy sharing the history, geology, and culture of the Arkansas Valley.
Adventure with Comfort
Guests can enjoy exciting rafting during the day and unwind each evening in comfortable mountain inns — a combination that many guests find ideal.
This balance of professional guiding, detailed planning, and personal attention is why many travelers recommend Wilderness Aware to friends and family.
Trip cost does not include 9% Land and Water Access fee or gratuity for your guide(s).
This trip offers a balanced Colorado adventure combining outdoor activity with time to relax and explore.
Trip Type: Multi-Day Rafting Adventure
River: Arkansas River
Location: Buena Vista and Salida, Colorado
Difficulty: Class II–III whitewater (depending on section)
Trip Length: 2 days
Lodging: Comfortable local inns
Meals: Riverside lunch each day (dinner in town and breakfast at the inn)
Trip Type: Multi-Day Rafting Adventure
River: Arkansas River
Location: Buena Vista and Salida, Colorado
Difficulty: Class II–IV whitewater (depending on section)
Trip Length: 3 days
Lodging: Comfortable local inns
Meals: Riverside lunch each day (dinner in town and breakfast at the inn)
Custom Itinerary Available
Trip Type: Multi-Day Rafting Adventure
River: Arkansas River
Location: Buena Vista and Salida, Colorado
Difficulty: Class II–IV whitewater (depending on section)
Trip Length: 4 days
Lodging: Comfortable local inns
Meals: Riverside lunch each day (dinner in town and breakfast at the inn)
Custom Itinerary Available
The Inn-to-Inn rafting trip is ideal for guests who:
This trip is especially popular with:
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!
Other Items to Bring:
Detailed packing lists are provided before the trip.
When You NEED a Wetsuit (provided by us upon request):
When a Wetsuit is Optional:
Provided Cold Weather Gear:
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.
Inn-to-Inn trips typically run from May through September, depending on river conditions.
Snowmelt increases river flow, creating bigger waves and faster water.
Water levels moderate while still offering exciting rapids and comfortable weather.
Lower water levels reveal more of the canyon scenery and create a more relaxed rafting experience.
Throughout the season, guides adjust each trip to match the conditions and comfort level of the group.
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):
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
An Inn-to-Inn trip combines guided rafting during the day with comfortable lodging in local mountain inns each night.
No experience is required. Many guests on Inn-to-Inn trips are first-time rafters.
Most Inn-to-Inn trips include Class II–III whitewater, offering fun rapids with scenic floating sections. Customizable for each group.
Bring quick-dry clothing, secure footwear, and layers for changing weather. Detailed packing lists are provided before the trip.
Riverside lunch each day is included. Dinners are hosted at local restaurants and Breakfast at the Inn.
Yes. Many families choose the Inn-to-Inn trip because it offers adventure with comfortable lodging.
Guests often cite:
Many say the trip became one of the most memorable parts of their Colorado visit.
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!
