Clear Creek is one of the best whitewater rafting rivers in Colorado, and for great reasons. The canyon offers all levels of whitewater challenge, and easy access. The setting includes scenic flats, mining ruins, wildlife, and, of course, exciting whitewater flowing over rocks. Nearby is Idaho Springs, where the gold rush began. It is the first city founded in Colorado, in 1859. This quaint town is nestled in the foothills of some of Colorado’s best mountains and holds a unique place in the state’s history. As the place where the Colorado Gold Rush started, this little town holds a lot of secrets, including one of the best river rafting areas in the State! Conveniently located about 30 minutes west of Denver, and close to Breckenridge, Silverthorne, Dillon, and Winter Park, Clear Creek has rafting trip options for varying ability and experience levels.

• Choose between a route down the upper Snake River, or departing from Heart Six Ranch
• Fit a morning or afternoon departure into your schedule
• See a less-traveled portion of the Snake River
• For morning departures: western breakfast at Heart Six Ranch (own expense)

What To Expect

Looking to step it up a notch from a beginner rafting trip? Choose the Intermediate option. Our Intermediate raft trip is a great choice for experienced paddlers or aggressive first timers craving the thrill and challenge of whitewater. With a steady dose of fun and challenging rapids, this trip requires active paddling and participation as we navigate the river as a team.

First time paddlers and experienced paddlers alike are welcome, but active paddling is required and you must be at least 12 to participate. Being in good physical condition and having the ability to swim are recommended. Clear Creek is steep and narrow, and this section passes through over a dozen rapids as the river drops about 75 feet per mile. Listen to your guide, hold onto your paddle and get ready to get wet! This exciting stretch of the river is Clear Creek’s most popular trip with continuous class III and IV rapids. Navigate rapids with such names as Nomad, Fall River, Phoenix, Deliverance, and the class IV climax, Outer Limits Rapid.