Planning a day on Colorado’s rivers? This full-day float and whitewater trip in Kremmling ticks a lot of boxes—relaxing scenery, exciting rapids, and a solid guide leading the way. It’s a popular choice for those wanting a taste of Colorado’s wild side without sacrificing comfort, especially if you’re eager to combine adventure with beautiful landscapes.
What really makes this trip stand out? First, the expert guides clearly know their stuff, making safety and fun go hand-in-hand. Second, the scenery along the river—canyon walls, lush forests, mountain views—is simply breathtaking, offering plenty of great photo ops. On the flip side, it’s a full-day commitment, so if you’re after a quick splash or travel with young kids expecting more relaxed floats, this might feel a little intense. This tour suits active travelers, adventure lovers, and those wanting a well-rounded Colorado river experience.
Key Points
- Expert guides ensure safety, fun, and local insights
- The trip combines relaxing scenery with thrilling Class III rapids
- A full-day experience—best for those ready for a substantial outdoor adventure
- Includes lunch, making it a convenient all-in-one outing
- Wildlife spotting and learning about the region’s ecology adds educational value
- Suitable for travelers comfortable with some physical activity and water exposure
What to Expect from the Full-Day Float and Whitewater Tour
This tour offers a balanced mix of gentle floating and adrenaline-pumping rapids on the Upper Colorado River, just outside Kremmling. It’s designed to give you a comprehensive taste of river life, without feeling rushed or overly strenuous. When you book, you’ll be invited to meet your guides at AVA Rafting & Zipline, where all safety gear and instructions are provided.
The Morning: Setting Out on the River
The day usually starts with a short safety briefing—guides will go over paddling techniques, safety protocols, and what to expect. Once you’re suited up with life jackets, helmets, and paddles, the adventure begins.
You’ll first float through calmer sections of the river, taking in the stunning surroundings. Picture towering canyon walls on either side, lush trees lining the banks, and the distant peaks of Colorado’s mountains. This part is perfect for snapping photos, relaxing, and soaking in the peaceful ambiance. Many reviews mention how beautiful the scenery is—it’s a true highlight.
The Excitement: Conquering Class III Rapids
Soon enough, the mellow float gives way to the more exciting part—Class III rapids designed to give you a splash of adrenaline. Paddling through these waves provides a fun challenge, especially if you’re new to whitewater but enjoy a bit of a thrill. Guides keep safety front and center, allowing everyone to feel confident tackling the rapids.
Several travelers, like Victoria, said the guides were “great, informative, and just fun to be with,” which makes a big difference when navigating bouncy water. The guides not only keep everyone safe but also add a sense of camaraderie, making the experience more memorable.
The Scenic Lunch Break
Around the halfway point, you’ll pause for lunch—an included meal that’s perfect for refueling after some energetic paddling. The setting is usually along the riverbank, with scenic views as your backdrop. It’s a chance to relax, chat with fellow rafters, and take in the surroundings.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Afternoon: More Rapids and Float
Post-lunch, the river continues with its mix of gentle and more vigorous sections. The guides often share insights about the region’s ecology—expect to learn about local wildlife, plant life, and geology from your knowledgeable guides. This adds an educational element that many appreciate, especially those interested in Colorado’s natural environment.
The trip wraps up after roughly 4 hours on the water, leaving you with plenty of memories and a sense of accomplishment.
Why the Guides Make a Difference
Feedback from past participants emphasizes the importance of knowledgeable guides. Karen mentions her guide Isaiah was “awesome” and has returned for a second trip with him. Victoria also praised guides Jack and Kaylee for their fun, safety-conscious approach.
Good guides do more than just navigate—they enhance the experience with local stories, tips, and camaraderie, which can turn a simple float into a highlight of your trip.
What’s Included and What to Bring
The package covers everything you need: full safety gear, expert guiding, and lunch. This means you can focus on the fun without worrying about equipment.
However, a few personal items are worth packing: water, sunscreen (preferably waterproof), a hat, a camera, and comfortable clothes suitable for water activity. Avoid cotton, as it doesn’t dry quickly, and consider bringing sunglasses with a strap to prevent losing them in the rapids.
Some extras—like tips for guides, retail gear, or snacks—are not included, so having a little cash on hand is handy.
The Trip’s Cost
At $164 per person, it’s a good value considering the full-day experience, lunch, safety gear, and guided expertise. For travelers wanting a comprehensive river adventure, this price reflects a solid package. It’s worth noting the experience is mainly recreational and educational, not a luxury splurge, but the quality of guides and scenery makes it worthwhile.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who are comfortable with water activities and a full day outdoors. If you love a mix of relaxation and a little adrenaline, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. While the reviews highlight how guides keep everyone safe, it’s still a physically active day, so it’s ideal for those in reasonable shape.
Travelers with young children or those seeking a more laid-back float might find this a bit too energetic. But if you’re looking for a fun, scenic, and engaging outdoor trip that combines gentle float with exciting rapids, this tour fits well.
The Sum Up
This full-day guided float trip on the Upper Colorado River offers a great combination of natural beauty, lively rapids, and educational insights. The guides, praised for their knowledge and friendliness, are clearly a key part of making the experience memorable. Coupled with stunning canyon walls and mountain views, it’s a day that captures what many love about Colorado’s outdoors.
The inclusion of lunch and safety gear makes it a convenient choice, especially for travelers wanting a comprehensive river adventure without a lot of hassle. It’s particularly well-suited for active, curious visitors eager to see Colorado’s wilderness from a unique perspective.
If you’re craving a day of scenic views, water excitement, and learning about local ecology, this trip is likely to hit the spot. Just keep in mind it’s a full-day commitment, so come prepared for some physical activity and a fun challenge.
Kremmling: Full-Day Upper Colorado Guided Float Trip + Lunch
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides are experienced and will provide safety instructions. The trip combines calm floating with exciting Class III rapids, making it accessible for most beginners comfortable with water activities.
How long is the total trip?
The full experience lasts about 4 hours, typically available in the morning, including paddling, scenes, and lunch.
What should I wear?
Wear quick-dry clothing—avoid cotton—and bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Pack a camera and water for hydration.
Is the trip suitable for kids?
While not explicitly stated, this experience is often enjoyed by active travelers comfortable with water. Kids should be able to handle a full day and some paddling.
What do I need to bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, camera, and comfortable clothes. Towels are not provided, so plan accordingly for drying off.
What’s included in the price?
Safety equipment, expert guides, lunch, and the full-day whitewater float are all included.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if your plans shift.
This tour offers a well-rounded outdoor experience that balances adventure and scenery—perfect for those wanting to see Colorado from a different vantage point. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned rafter, it’s likely to leave you with plenty of stories and a newfound appreciation for Colorado’s river landscapes.
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