From gentle floats through scenic canyons to multi-day fishing expeditions, these are five of the best float trips in Colorado for families, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
What are the best float trips in Colorado?
Some of the best float trips in Colorado include scenic family floats, guided fly fishing trips, overnight float fishing adventures, and exciting whitewater rafting experiences. The Arkansas River stands out as one of the state’s top destinations thanks to its variety of float trips for every age, skill level, and adventure style.
1. Cottonwood Canyon Family Float
If you’re looking for a relaxing river adventure, it’s hard to beat the Cottonwood Canyon Family Float. This scenic section of the Arkansas River features gentle current, small splashy rapids, and beautiful canyon scenery, making it one of the best float trips in Colorado for families with young children and first-time rafters.
Unlike more challenging whitewater trips, Cottonwood Canyon focuses on enjoying the river at a slower pace. You’ll have opportunities to spot wildlife, cool off in calm swimming areas, and simply take in the surrounding mountain views.
Best for
- Families with children ages 4+
- Grandparents
- First-time rafters
- Anyone wanting a relaxing float
Trip Highlights
- Gentle Class I-II rapids
- Beautiful Arkansas River scenery
- Calm swimming opportunities
- Beginner-friendly experience
2. Browns Canyon Overnight Float Fishing
Looking for a float trip that combines incredible scenery with world-class trout fishing?
The Browns Canyon National Monument Overnight Float Fishing Trip takes anglers deep into one of Colorado’s most scenic wilderness areas for two unforgettable days on the Arkansas River. Guests split their time between floating productive water, fishing from shore, and relaxing at a riverside campsite beneath the stars.
It’s an immersive experience that combines excellent fly fishing with the chance to completely disconnect from everyday life.
Why anglers love it
- Overnight riverside camping
- Guided fly fishing
- Browns Canyon National Monument
- Boat and walk-and-wade fishing
- Incredible scenery
3. Arkansas River Guided Float Fishing
The Arkansas River Guided Float Fishing Trip offers one of Colorado’s premier trout fishing experiences. Accompanied by experienced local guides, anglers spend the day floating productive stretches of the Arkansas River while targeting healthy populations of Brown and Rainbow Trout.
Because guides adjust river sections based on current fishing conditions, every trip is designed to maximize your chances of success.
Unlike overnight adventures, this full-day trip packs plenty of fishing into a single day, making it a great option for visitors with limited vacation time.
Highlights
- Gold Medal trout waters
- Brown and Rainbow Trout
- Professional fly fishing guides
- Productive river sections selected daily
- Full-day guided experience
4. Gunnison Gorge Fly Fishing Float Trip
For anglers seeking a true backcountry adventure, the Gunnison Gorge Fly Fishing Float Trip is one of Colorado’s most memorable experiences.
This three-day expedition combines excellent trout fishing with remote camping, exciting stretches of river, and breathtaking canyon scenery. The Gunnison River is famous for its incredibly healthy trout population, offering anglers the opportunity to fish productive water from both the boat and the shoreline.
With no crowds and limited access, it feels like stepping into another world.
Best for
- Experienced anglers
- Multi-day adventures
- Backcountry camping
- Father-son trips
- Bucket-list fly fishing
Trip Highlights
- Three-day guided adventure
- Remote wilderness camping
- Exceptional trout fishing
- Scenic Gunnison River corridor
5. Rapids & Ropes Adventure Package
Who says a float trip has to end when you get off the river?
The Rapids & Ropes Adventure Package combines one of the Arkansas River’s most popular rafting trips through Bighorn Sheep Canyon with an aerial ropes course for a full day of Colorado adventure.
You’ll spend the morning navigating fun Class II-III rapids before heading to Captain Zipline’s Canyon Aerial Course, where suspended bridges, climbing elements, and obstacle challenges keep the adventure going.
It’s one of the most unique float trips in Colorado because it combines two unforgettable outdoor experiences into a single day.
Perfect for
- Families
- Groups
- Couples
- Adventure seekers
- Weekend getaways
Trip Highlights
- Bighorn Sheep Canyon rafting
- Family-friendly whitewater
- Captain Zipline aerial course
- Full-day adventure package
Things to Know Before Booking a Colorado Float Trip
Colorado offers float trips for nearly every age and experience level, but choosing the right one depends on what kind of adventure you’re looking for.
Before booking, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose the right trip for your group. Scenic floats are ideal for families, while whitewater and fishing trips may require more experience or physical activity.
- Book early during summer. Weekends and popular launch times often fill well in advance.
- Dress for the river. Wear quick-dry clothing, secure footwear, sunscreen, and bring a change of clothes.
- Know the minimum ages. Family floats generally welcome younger children, while fishing and whitewater adventures may have different age requirements.
- Trust your guide. Professional guides provide safety instruction, equipment, and local expertise to help you have the best possible experience.
FAQs About Float Trips in Colorado
What are the best float trips in Colorado?
Some of the best float trips in Colorado include the Cottonwood Canyon Family Float, guided Arkansas River fly fishing trips, Browns Canyon overnight fishing adventures, Gunnison Gorge multi-day floats, and whitewater rafting through Bighorn Sheep Canyon.
Which Colorado float trip is best for families?
The Cottonwood Canyon Family Float is one of the best family-friendly float trips in Colorado. Its gentle current, beautiful scenery, and beginner-friendly pace make it ideal for children, parents, and grandparents.
Are there scenic float trips in Colorado?
Yes. Scenic float trips are available throughout Colorado, including the Cottonwood Canyon Family Float on the Arkansas River. These trips emphasize beautiful scenery, wildlife viewing, and relaxing time on the water rather than large whitewater rapids.
Can beginners go on a float trip?
Absolutely. Many Colorado float trips are designed specifically for first-time visitors and families. Professional guides provide safety instruction and all necessary equipment before your trip begins.
What should I bring on a Colorado float trip?
Most outfitters provide life jackets, helmets (when needed), paddles, and other safety equipment. Guests should wear quick-drying clothing, water shoes or sandals with straps, sunscreen, sunglasses with a retainer strap, and bring a change of clothes for afterward.
When is the best time to take a float trip in Colorado?
Most Colorado float trips operate from late spring through summer. Scenic floats and guided fishing trips are especially popular from June through August when weather conditions are warm and river recreation is at its peak.
Find Your Perfect Colorado Float Trip
Whether you’re introducing the kids to rafting, planning a guided fly fishing adventure, or looking for an unforgettable day on the Arkansas River, Colorado has a float trip for every type of traveler.
At Arkansas River Tours, we offer everything from relaxing family floats to world-class guided fishing trips and exciting whitewater adventures. No matter which experience you choose, you’ll leave with incredible scenery, unforgettable memories, and a new appreciation for Colorado’s rivers.
