Scenic, mellow river close to Denver
South Platte River
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south platte river overview
The upper stretches of the South Platte feature excellent expert kayak runs as well as more family-friendly floats. Fishing and camping are very popular along this section as well. The lower section begins as the South Platte pours from Chatfield Lake and winds its way toward the downtown Denver skyline. A few fun and splashy play parks dot this laid-back urban rafting adventure.
• Difficulty: Class II-III (What does this mean?)
• Season: May – August
White Water Rafting Trips on the South Platte River:
Trip Lengths: 1/4 & 1/2 Day (Urban Denver)
Outfitter: CityWild
Learn More: www.citywild.org ~ 303.477.7238
south platte river sections
Deckers
Class II-III
Mild section of river, popular with fisherman, features only small, bouncy waves and one large rapid.
Urban Denver
Class II-III
Mild float water offset by a handful of small rapids and whitewater play parks all within the urban setting of Colorado’s largest city, Denver.
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Information for South Platte River Self-Guided Boaters:
The South Platte River is in the Pike National Forest and is managed by the U.S. Forest Service.
- Boating Permit Required: NO
- Permit Details: No fee of any kind is required to float the river within the National Forest on public lands.
- Parking along the South Plate River is limited to designated parking areas and day use fee areas ($7 cash or check) only.
- US Forest Service – South Platte Ranger District
30403 King’s Valley Dr, Suite 2-115 Conifer, CO 80433
Monday – Friday 8 AM to 4:30 PM
www.fs.usda.gov/goto/psicc/sopl ~ 303.275.5610
Shuttles:
If shuttle service is available, information is listed under the specific section page.
