Explore Trips
Eat, stay and play!
Denver is the capital city of Colorado and is known for its outdoor recreation, arts and culture, and vibrant urban atmosphere. The city is located in the Rocky Mountains and offers easy access to hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities. Denver also has a thriving arts scene, with several museums, theaters, and galleries, including the Denver Art Museum and the Denver Center for the Performing Arts.
The city is also home to several professional sports teams, including the Broncos, Nuggets, and Rockies. Visitors can enjoy a stroll in the historic Larimer Square, shop in Cherry Creek North, or explore the trendy neighborhoods of LoDo and RiNo.
Only 35 minutes from downtown Denver, our Clear Creek rafting trips are the closest whitewater rafting experiences to the Mile High City. Whether you’re making it a quick day trip or extending your stay for a weekend of mountain adventure, this guide highlights where to stay, what to eat, and how to make the most of your visit.
Clear Creek is a steep, fast-flowing river ideal for both families and thrill-seekers. Arkansas River Tours offers half-day rafting trips on three Clear Creek sections, from beginner-friendly floats to adrenaline-pumping rapids.
🚗 Travel time from Denver: ~35–45 minutes via I-70
🌊 Rafting season: Mid-May to mid-August
The Crawford Hotel: Iconic boutique stay inside Denver’s Union Station, walkable and stylish.
The Oxford Hotel: Historic charm meets modern luxury, also steps from Union Station.
The Maven Hotel at Dairy Block: Trendy, art-filled hotel with access to Denver’s lively micro-district.
Kimpton Hotel Born: Upscale, modern design with mountain views and Union Station convenience.
The Ramble Hotel: Boutique hotel in RiNo with chic décor and a lively cocktail bar.
Looking for lodging after your trip? These nearby towns offer convenient places to rest and recharge.
Argo Inn & Suites – Riverside access and local feel
H&H Motor Lodge – Clean, affordable, and walkable
Main Street Airbnbs – Quaint vacation rentals downtown
Clear Creek Rafting: Just 30 minutes from Denver, experience thrilling rapids and beautiful canyon views on one of Colorado’s most popular whitewater rivers.
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre: Famous for its natural acoustics and concerts under the stars, plus hiking trails and a visitor center with music history.
Denver Botanic Gardens: Explore 24 acres of themed gardens, art exhibits, and seasonal events in the heart of the city.
Denver Art Museum: Known for its striking architecture and diverse collections ranging from Native American art to contemporary exhibits.
Denver Museum of Nature & Science: Hands-on exhibits, planetarium shows, and dinosaur fossils make it fun for all ages.
RiNo Art District: A colorful neighborhood filled with street murals, craft breweries, food halls, and live music venues.
Lookout Mountain + Buffalo Bill Museum: Scenic mountain drive with sweeping views of Denver, plus the museum and gravesite of Buffalo Bill Cody.
How far is Clear Creek from Denver?
Just 35–45 minutes from downtown, Clear Creek is the closest rafting destination to the city.
What’s the best time of year to go rafting on Clear Creek?
Trips run mid-May through mid-August, with peak flows in June.
What do I need to bring?
We provide all rafting gear! Just bring quick-dry clothing, water shoes or sandals with straps, sunscreen, and a change of clothes.
Are there family-friendly rafting trips near Denver?
Yes! Our Middle Clear Creek trip is perfect for families with kids as young as 7.
Where do Clear Creek trips start?
We run all of our Clear Creek whitewater rafting trips out of our location at 1181 Co Rd 308, Unit B, Dumont, CO 80436.
Can I do a rafting trip and still explore Denver in the same day?
Absolutely. Many guests raft in the morning and spend the afternoon exploring downtown Denver, Red Rocks, or Golden.
Ready to leave the city behind? Book your Clear Creek rafting trip now and experience some of Colorado’s best whitewater, just a short drive from Denver.
| River | Travel Time from Denver | Difficulty | Season | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clear Creek | ~35–45 mins | Class II–V | May–Aug | Closest to Denver, quick trips |
| Arkansas River | ~2 hrs | Class II–IV+ | Apr–Sept | Royal Gorge, Bighorn Sheep Canyon |
| Gunnison River | ~4 hrs | Class III | Select Dates | Remote, multi-day wilderness |
| Upper Colorado | ~2.5 hrs | Class II–III | Apr–Sept | Scenic, mellow, family-friendly |
Not sure which adventure to pick? We’ve got a trip for everyone, and our quick quiz makes it easy to find the perfect fit! Whether you’re chasing thrills or planning family fun, we’ll guide you to the best Arkansas River Tours experience based on your ideal location, activity, and excitement level.
Cañon City Location
49311 US Hwy 50 Unit B,
Cañon City, CO 81212
Cotopaxi Location
19487 US-50,
Cotopaxi, CO 81223
Dumont Location
1181 County Rd 308 B
Dumont, CO 40436