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Rafting in Colorado
Rafting Colorado's Wild Rivers
Whether it be the soothing sound of a babbling brook or the heart-pounding roar of a frothy river, there's something about rivers that draws people to run them in whatever vessel they can get their hands on. From the days of hand-carved wooden canoes to today's commercial float trips, we've always found a way to get down the river, and more people every year are giving it a try.Colorado's rafting
industry continues to post increases in user days every season.
According to the Colorado River Outfitters Association, more than a
half million people took a commercial rafting trip in the state in
1998, up almost 6 percent from the previous year.
"River rafting represents a large portion of Colorado's summer tourism business," said Tom Kleinschnitz, CROA chairman. "Rafting enthusiasts are increasingly finding out about Colorado's excellent river experiences. We're delighted with the strong gains the Colorado rafting industry has made, particularly in light of the increased competition for leisure business."
All the exposure is prompting folks who never thought they'd try whitewater sports to inquire about it, and that's a good thing for river outfitters who have something to offer every person interested in experiencing the excitement and beauty of Colorado's rivers.
Although the high waters of June draw the most enthusiastic rafters to play in the biggest waves of the season, that doesn't mean families seeking a mellow float trip can't find less than a hair-raising experience. Regardless of flows and time of season, there's always something for every type of rafter in Colorado. The most difficult part of planning a trip is choosing a section of river that will satisfy everyone. That's where the outfitters play a big role.
Difficulty
"Its
the outfitter's role to help people choose the appropriate trip by
discussing the experience level of the group, which is very
important for first-time rafters as well as experienced paddlers who
want a more challenging experience," said Duke Bradford, owner
of Arkansas Valley Adventures, a company in Buena Vista that
operates on the Arkansas River. "Colorado's nearly unlimited
sections of whitewater offer even the experienced paddler something
new each and every season, but you have to organize the right trip
for your group. For example, the Arkansas has beginning stretches
appropriate for small children, all the way up to the most
challenging paddling like The Numbers, where big holes and drops
offer Class 5 boating."
Interpretation varies nationwide, but commercial outfitters generally agree with the following classification of rapids:
Class 1: an easy, slow-moving currentIt's important for individuals to understand their limits before agreeing to run a certain section of river. Consider physical abilities, such as how much you exercise at home, and whether you want to be an aggressive paddler before agreeing to join a group on a Class 4 to 5 trip.
Class 2: small waves
Class 3: rapids have medium waves with some technical maneuvers required
Class 4:rapids occur in a faster current, with bigger waves that are technical and scouting is sometimes recommended
Class 5:rapids have a very fast current, large waves and scouting is necessary
Class 6:rapids are virtually un-runnable, only attempted by professional racing teams
Rafting is a sport filled with the adrenaline rush many outdoor enthusiasts look for: Whitewater sprays 15 feet in the air as you crash through a Class 4 wave and the guide barks commands from the back of the raft ... That's part of rafting, but the sounds and smells of nature originally lured people to the rivers, and that still plays a big role in rafting today.
"Floating down a beautiful river in Colorado is something everyone should enjoy," said Mary Morrison, after her experience on the Arkansas. "Listening to the river between the rapids, the chance to spot wildlife, the silence of the backcountry ... all that makes for a good rafting trip."
There is little doubt that whitewater rafting is thrilling. It is one of the few sports where a person with no experience whatsoever can pay someone to put them in an unbelievably intense encounter with Mother Nature. It's understandable why cautious people - especially parents of small children - would look at the promotional literature provided by rafting companies and perhaps decide that a better way to spend vacation time and money while visiting Colorado would be, say, a scenic drive. But, before you blow off rafting because it looks intimidating, consider that every year, thousands of people venture to the Arkansas, Colorado and Dolores rivers to paddle through Class 4 or 5 rapids, and rarely are there problems on commercially guided rafting trips.
The Colorado standards for certification of guides and outfitters are beyond reproach, with mandatory training requirements for all guides and outfitters. Every rafting company puts its employees through rigorous training and apprenticeship programs, certifying guides under state regulations. The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is a governing body that oversees the 60 outfitters on the Arkansas River and ensures that safety issues are addressed by each company. Guides are also trained in CPR, first aid and swift-water rescue.
When to Go
Colorado rivers are fed by the winter season's snow melt, also called run-off, so May and June are "powder season" for river aficionados. Even July can bring big water flows and frigid water temperatures. Later in the summer, water flows subside, exposing rocky river bottoms that create technical paddling circumstances on most Colorado rivers. As the water level drops, some rivers become more challenging and others that are not runnable during high flows are perfect for commercial rafting by mid-July. All said, the season is generally from May to September.
What to Bring
Outfitters will provide the gear you need for a fun, safe experience on the river. That always includes a life jacket and a helmet for difficult paddling trips. Additional gear like wetsuits, splash tops and booties for the feet are rented for a small fee. Water sandals or old tennis shoes are also good footwear. Wool socks inside booties work well in Colorado's frigid waters, and bring a fleece or Polypropylene top or jacket. Swimsuits are usually worn underneath wetsuits. Leave cotton garments in the shuttle vehicle that will meet you at the "take out," where your trip will end.
Waterproof cameras with an elastic band are perfect for river trips. Just loop the camera handle through the bottom buckle of your life jacket and you're ready to record the action. Don't forget waterproof sunscreen and "Croakies," or a string to secure sunglasses or prescription glasses. Favorite baseball caps and jewelry should be left in the car or at home. T-shirts, photographs and other mementos are traditionally available at the end of the trip, and many guests will pass on a tip to their guide, so bring a credit card and some cash.
Your Guide
A good river guide can be like a favorite high school coach or the funniest waiter you ever experienced. Guides are professional leaders, safety experts, storytellers, scientists, comics and chefs, all rolled into one. If you are a first-time paddler, just be yourself. Most guides are biologists, geologists and historians wrapped in a friendly, deeply tanned package, so if you are a birder, wildflower fanatic or a history buff, don't be shy about asking questions. And don't forget to make friends with the rest of the paddling crew! If you have a great time on the river, remember the guide's name and request your new amigo the next time you go paddling.
Photos
and Article adapted
from story contributed by
Arkansas
Valley Adventures
