Intermediate Rafting Trip at Clear Creek Canyon

For those who want a step-up from beginner rafting, try this 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. 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 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.

PRICING:

ACA MEMBERS: $100.00

NON ACA MEMBERS:  $150.00.  -----SAVE $50 - Enroll now at: https://www.alwayschooseadventures.org/join

All ACA events are NON-REFUNDABLE. If for some reason you cannot attend, please consider your purchase a donation.

 Trip Details 

• Duration: Half day (~ 3 hours total)
• Whitewater Rapids Class: III-IV
• Minimum Age: 12 years old. May vary with water flows*

 Itinerary 

• Gear up & meet your guide(s)
• Shuttle ride to put in
• River time
• Take out and shuttle back to the Boathouse

 Trip Package Includes 

• CAG professional rafting guides
• All safety & rafting equipment
• Transportation from designated meeting place to the put-in
• A safe, fun, and educational experience.

 Trip Package Does Not Include 

• Lodging
• Clothing (See recommended gear under Trip Planning)
• Insurance (Trip or Rescue)
• Gratuity

 About Your Guides 

Colorado Adventure Guides and Colorado Rafting Company, based in Silverthorne, CO, deliver four seasons of outdoor adventure and education. With operations in seven USFS and BLM ranger districts, we serve a dynamic and growing population of outdoor enthusiasts. Our all-season, guided operations include:

• Rock Climbing
• Mountaineering
• Hiking/Peak Accents
• Mountain Biking
• Whitewater Rafting/SUPing
• Backcountry Skiing
• Backcountry Splitboarding
• Snowshoeing
• Ice Climbing
• AIARE Snow Safety

We have been providing incredible experiences to visitors of Summit County and surrounding areas for over 20 years. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned expert, let us take you on your next unforgettable outdoor adventure!

 FAQs Do I need any prior training to participate in this course? 

First time paddlers and experienced paddlers alike are welcome, but active paddling is required. Being in good physical condition and having the ability to swim are recommended.

 Are rentals available? 

No specialized gear is required for these adventures. We provide all specialized equipment needed. You bring clothing and apparel appropriate for being outside on a Colorado summer day on the river. We do recommend wetsuits and/or splash jackets for this early season river. The water is cold so don’t be afraid to bring your long underwear and fleece jackets for this classic Colorado rafting trip.

 Should We Tip Our Guide? 

Your guide/instructors work hard before, during, and after your course to provide you with a great experience, and while not expected, gratuities are always highly appreciated. If you had a safe, educational, and fun experience, gratuities typically range from 15-20%.

 When Does White Water Rafting Start on Clear Creek? 

The season for rafting Clear Creek is May through August, depending on water levels.

 What To Wear Rafting in Colorado? 

Avoid cotton clothing, as it tends to get wet and stay wet – not to mention taking valuable warmth from your body’s surface. For rafting, bathing suits and shorts are recommended with comfortable, secure footwear. While not required, we do provide wetsuits, splash jackets, and booties at no additional charge. This equipment isn’t mandatory but it is designed to keep you warm. Towels are best kept in your vehicles and don’t do you much good on the river because there is no way to keep them dry. Your best bet are wool, polypro, fleece, micro fleece, polyester, waterproof jackets, and any other outdoor material that dries fast. Space is limited on the rafts, so limit what you bring to what you can wear. Personal flotation devices (PFDs) are included with all rafting adventures and helmets on all Clear Creek trips. If you have any questions please call us so that you know what to expect and can plan accordingly.

 What Should We Bring on a Rafting Trip? 

Please see our equipment lists for activity specific gear. For rafting you will want to bring a few towels to leave in your car; you’ll be happy to have something to dry off with after your adventure. Leave a change of dry clothes in your car, too. Our basecamps offer changing rooms so you can be comfortable after your Colorado raft adventure. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, sunglasses straps, and hats that protect from the sun. Bring water for hydration. Remember, you’re in the Colorado Rockies, and it’s important to stay hydrated!

 Is there a minimum age required for this trip? 

We typically accept participants 12 years or older for intermediate trips, if they are accompanied by a legal guardian. You must be 18 years or older to attend a trip on your own.