Get away from the day-to-day on this amazing, action-packed Arkansas River adventure. A Texas man was killed while rafting the Arkansas River’s whitewater Monday, just days after state officials issued high-water warnings across the state. The Arkansas Valley is the northernmost of these valleys and conclusive geologic evidence establishes that this valley was formed no earlier tha… There are so many outdoor activities, festivals, shopping and restaurants – you’ll have something different to do every day! Pike’s account had a dramatic effect on the exploration of the southwest. Outdoor activities are endless – the availability of hiking, rafting and camping make Chaffee County the trip of lifetime. The Salida Whitewater Park features several manmade features on the Arkansas River, used for kayaking, rafting and tubing. We have connected over 300,000 guests to the river since our inception in 1973 as one of the original Colorado white water rafting companies. It’s located in the state’s largest historic district, downtown Salida. Take on two great Arkansas River sections in one day! Rafting and kayaking outfitters that are current members of AROA are listed below. These buildings and projects included the Alpine Tunnel, the D&RG Hospital, the Salida Light and Power Company (Steamplant) building and the smokestack in Smeltertown. Experience the thrilling whitewater of America’s most popular river, the Arkansas. We offer private boater shuttles on many sections of the Arkansas River in Colorado and the Upper Salt River in Arizona. The river was great, not to much for rookies. Arkansas River Outfitters Association (AROA) Membership List. When you book a Browns Canyon rafting trip you’ll experience Colorado’s most popular white water rafting trip! Browns Canyon Rafting 28395 County Road 317 Buena Vista, CO 81211 (719) 275-2890. A man named A.C. Hunt laid out the new 160-acre townsite, and in June of 1880 a post office was established. Trips are available from May 1st to Aug 25. This mild whitewater tour starts four miles upstream of River Runners. Don’t forget to visit many other vacation towns and destinations, including Buena Vista, Leadville, Breckenridge, Keystone, Aspen, Vail, Canon City, Colorado Springs, Denver, and Gunnison. Hunt’s wife suggested the Spanish name Salida (‘exit’), for the new town. Salida, Colorado White Water Rafting Vacations Salida is the most centrally located destination along the upper Arkansas River and is where some of River Runners’ employees call home. Royal Gorge, Arkansas River – Class IV-V. And you won’t find a better white water rafting outfitter than Wilderness Aware! This trip departs from Buena Vista, Colorado, near Denver and Colorado Springs, and is recommended to advanced rafters and those ages 14+. My first trip down the Arkansas with Kurt and Greg. Enjoy a family vacation where the river walls open to beautiful views of the snow-covered Sangre de Cristo Mountains, rising to over 14,000 feet. Today, however, the town thrives on the outdoor tourism industry as well the unavoidable charm of old downtown. Most settlers came in search of gold and silver. The Arkansas River is highly valued for its diverse recreation and is used by more than 500,000 rafters, kayakers, anglers, campers, and wildlife viewers each year. We have 2 convenient locations that offer whitewater rafting Colorado Springs and Salida, Colorado. Your Adventure awaits in Colorado’s High Country. In the early 1860’s, when the dream of fame and fortune did not become a reality, many discouraged miners vacated mining camps and began to establish farms and ranches on the Arkansas River near present day Salida. Arkansas River Tours offers guided float fishing trips for Brown and Rainbow trout. 12600 US Highway 24/285 Discover the highest concentration of 14,000-foot peaks in Colorado. There is a mix of class II rapids and flat water. You’ll start in the fun and fast-paced rapids of Browns Canyon and finish with the challenging and technical rapids of the Numbers. Suitable for all skill levels and kids ages 8+, this multi-day adventure departs from Buena Vista, Colorado, near Denver, Colorado Springs and major resorts. Book Now For centuries before the town of Salida came into existence, the area was inhabited by native cultures including the Ute, Arapahoe and Cheyenne. Departing from Buena Vista, Colorado this adventure is close to Denver, Colorado Springs and major resorts. Salida Rafting Trips admin-byron 2015-03-10T21:19:34+00:00 . Available from May 15 to Aug 20. (Andy Colwell, Special to The Colorado Sun) Planning for drought has made Colorado whitewater rafting companies ready to weather coronavirus. Many of the buildings are still standing, creating Colorado’s largest historical district. Approximately 5 to 6 hours of clear crisp water. Flowing 150 miles from the old mining town of Climax in Lake County east through Colorado, the Arkansas provides some of the most awesome whitewater experiences in the country. Browse our member listing or send an inquiry to all qualified members by filling out the Information Request Form. Let one of our river guides show you how to sit, paddle and navigate the river in a kayak. Frontiersmen visited the area until the late 1850’s, when the first settlers entered the valley. Numbers, Narrows, Browns Canyon, Bighorn Sheep Canyon, & Royal Gorge. A trough of late Paleozoic sedimentary rocks running through central Colorado was uplifted as a massive dome to create this mountainous range. Whitewater raft through Browns Canyon National Monument or fish the 102 miles of Gold Medal Waters on the Arkansas River. Guided float fishing. In Buena Vista & Salida, Colorado Welcome to the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, one of the nation’s most popular locations for whitewater rafting and kayaking and home to the most commercially rafted river in the United States, the Arkansas River! Drainage off this range, then, created streams; these began flowing eastward, forming valleys. With so many things to do, white water rafting is only one of the many activities you can experience. Surrounded by massive fourteeners and carved by the Arkansas River its climate causes the vistas to constantly change. This trip departs from Buena Vista, Colorado – near Denver and Colorado Springs, and is suitable for all skill levels and kids ages 8+. Experience fantastic rafting and comfort all in one great Arkansas River trip. Raft the Arkansas River through Salida, Colorado. In 1880 the Denver and Rio Grande railroad tracks arrived at South Arkansas, as Salida was first called, bypassing Cleora. Rafting through Colorado’s San Isabel National Forest, there’s a good chance of seeing Bighorn Sheep on this stretch. ASPIRE MOUNTAIN TOURS offers guided trips that will inspire you to come back for more. Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials say five people were thrown from the privately owned raft in a whitewater section of the river below Salida on Friday afternoon. AROA Photo of the Week. Home to Browns Canyon National Monument, guided rafting trips are just 10 minutes away from Mt. It then became a major division point on the railroad tracks, with a brand new stone depot where the tracks diverged. Many new buildings and projects were constructed in the coming years, displaying the success of the new town. Enjoy fantastic whitewater during the day, including rafting Browns Canyon National Monument, and secluded camping at night. After the closure of the Climax mine near Leadville in the 1980’s and the discontinuation of the railroad in 1997, Chaffee County saw a dramatic decrease in population. The Arkansas River offers over 100 miles of whitewater rafting & kayaking. Arkansas River rafting trips are Colorado’s best white water rafting experiences, hands down! Take white water rafting trip through Browns Canyon on the Arkansas River, hike through Bighorn Sheep Canyon, or enjoy a horseback ride amidst the grand beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Salida Canyon Rafting | Half Day | Arkansas River, CO. SALIDA CANYON 1/2 HALF DAY RAFTING TRIP Family Friendly. Salida, Colorado is home to the largest historic downtown in Colorado and the Arkansas River runs right through it. Buena Vista, CO 81211. Our guide, Mickey, was a bit of a chore in that we, 4 rookie rafters, could never seem to get in step with the rowing responsibilities. In 1880 the Denver and Rio Grande railroad tracks arrived at South Arkansas, as Salida was first called, bypassing Cleora. Just 25 miles northwest of Salida, Colorado via CO 291 and US 285 is the River Runners Riverside Rafting Resort. Colorado Rafting River Guide The settlement of Cleora was founded, south of town, and Chaffee County was formed – named after the states first senator. This mild whitewater trip starts seven miles up river at the Big Bend Recreation Site. Join us for a half day of action-packed white water on the Arkansas River. The Salida Family Float trip is a fantastic way to spend a summer day on the Arkansas River! Extreme wildwater trips in the Royal Gorge. Rafters of all skill levels and kids ages 7+ are welcome on this trip that runs between May 1st and Labor Day. Salida River Adventures came to fruition when two long time Arkansas River guides decided to start a whitewater rafting and fly fishing guide service of their own. Create your own cool adventure in Buena Vista & Salida, Colorado then soak in 100% natural and odorless hot springs. The rapids are less technical (but no less exciting) for an introductory river experience. Located near Cañon City, this section offers big, powerful whitewater and stunning canyon views with looming cliffs and the Royal Gorge Bridge, America’s highest suspension bridge, 1000′ feet above the water. The river is low but we just got back from a run through Browns Canyon on the Arkansas and the rafting company was River Runners. We pride ourselves in exploring places that are off the beaten path. Lunch is provided on this full-day adventure. Enjoy a gentle stretch of the Arkansas River on this mild and mellow half day adventure. Visiting Salida, Colorado in the summer is the ultimate vacation! The Arkansas River has the perfect mix of fun white water and breath taking views. Dvorak is the go-to shop for the Arkansas River kayaking, rafting, tubing and SUP adventures in Salida, CO, just 140 miles southwest of Denver. With departures between May 15 and Aug 15, rafters of all skill levels and kids ages 8+ are welcome on this adventure. Raft the infamous Arkansas River. Adding lodging and land adventures, like ziplines, via ferrata and art classes, has helped outfitters keep … The Arkansas RIver Valley goes way beyond what you see. Suitable for all skill levels and kids ages 7+, you can experience a Browns Canyon rafting adventure anytime between May 1 and Labor Day. This full-day Salida rafting trip is a perfect balance for young children and adults wanting to share a little whitewater with a fun day on the river. Brought to you by. Arkansas River Tours is committed to providing the safest, highest-quality river trips available. Surrounded by Colorado’s 13,000 and 14,000 ft peaks our mountainous landscape provides an amazing outdoor playground. From 1958 through 1988, the Salida Steamplant was abandoned, only to be saved, restored and re-opened as a theater 2001. Keep your eyes peeled on the mountainside, in-between rapids like Shark’s Tooth, Double Dip, and Kamikaze. Rafting Big Horn Sheep Canyon on the Arkansas River near Cañon City. Inflatable kayaking is a unique way to experience Colorado’s Upper Arkansas River. The Sawatch Range of the Rocky Mountains was formed around 70 million years ago during the Laramide Orogeny (mountain building). Many of our customers come back year after year to enjoy Salida and the beautiful Arkansas River Valley. Runs from just above Salida to Cañon City. Hunt’s wife suggested the Spanish name Salida (‘exit’), for the new town. Salida is a wonderful destination for your Colorado rafting vacation. Great water extends Arkansas River rafting season; Unique agreement supports longest rafting season on Colorado’s Arkansas River; Outfitters see increase in overnight rafting tours on Colorado's Arkansas River; The Arkansas River is No. Family trips in Bighorn and Brown’s Canyon. Whether it’s scenic family floats, advanced whitewater rafting, or a half-day trip through Browns Canyon National Monument, we have a trip to fit your needs. A man named A.C. Hunt laid out the new 160-acre townsite, and in June of 1880 a post office was established. With over 100 miles of river, the Arkansas provides opportunities for adventure seekers of all kinds. Located near Buena Vista, Colorado the Arkansas River is convenient to access from Denver, Colorado Springs, Summit County, Aspen and Vail amongst other locations. Arkansas River Tours has been offering exceptional whitewater rafting in Colorado since 1973. SALIDA, Colo. (AP) — Authorities say a man died after the raft he was in flipped on the Arkansas River in southern Colorado. Camping near Buena Vista and Nathrop, around the Arkansas River, Camping near Salida, Poncha Springs and Monarch, around the Arkansas River, Camping near Salida, around the Arkansas River, Camping near Westcliffe and Cotopaxi, around the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Camping near Cañon City and around the Royal Gorge. Top Salida River Rafting & Tubing Activities: See reviews and photos of river rafting & tubing in Salida, Colorado on Tripadvisor. No trip is alike. Raft the Arkansas River in Buena Vista, Colorado near Denver, Colorado Springs and major resorts towns. River sections and rapids near Buena Vista & Salida. Beautiful scenery and exceptional guides make this trip a guest favorite! Private Boater Info, Shuttle Forms & Used Boating Equipment. Rafting experiences range from day trips to multi-day trips with camping, easy whitewater for family vacation adventures to challenging extreme adventures in Class IV+ whitewater. ZIP & DIP. Departing from Buena Vista, Colorado – near Denver and Colorado Springs – raft anytime between May 15 and Labor Day. Young kids ages 4+ and rafters of all skill levels love this trip that runs between May 1st and Labor Day. There are four whitewater wave features, and usually two big holes, which vary in size depending on water level and season. Kayak the Arkansas River. Find the best rafting trips and guides in Salida, CO. This family-friendly trip departs from Buena Vista, Colorado – close to Denver and Colorado Springs. Colorado is the land of sinfully good white water and the Arkansas is the best of the best when it comes to rafting and kayaking. CONTACT DETAILS. These family rafting trips are geared toward anyone looking for a mild introduction to white water or just a relaxing day on the river filled with fantastic scenery, wildlife, and bird watching — it’s an all-around great time! View Arkansas River rafting maps! We couldn't have done it without the help of our family, friends, and community. 1876, the same year of Colorado’s statehood, the mining boom in the small mining camp of Leadville took place and the wagon road traffic through the Upper Arkansas River Valley increased drastically. Wilderness Aware Rafting Only 2.5 hours from Denver and less than 2 from Colorado Springs! The Arkansas River Valley offers Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Rafting near the towns of Buena Vista and Salida, Colorado. Started in downtown Salida and went to the Rincon pull out. Of all these activities, the most dram… Independent Whitewater is Salida’s local rafting connection on the Arkansas River. Meet and depart in Buena Vista, Colorado – near Denver and Colorado Springs. 1 for whitewater rafting tours in Colorado; Spring runoff brings high water to Colorado’s Arkansas River Read More in News. Raft with us between May 15 and Aug 15. The Dvorak team … Customize white water rafting sections, comfortable lodging at bed and breakfasts and delicious dining choices at local restaurants. Arkansas River rafting can fuel your sole with adventure and will be the highlight of your summer! America’s most famous white water rafting river – the Arkansas – runs right through downtown. Salida is a place bursting with history and limitless outdoor recreation. 1949 saw the establishment of FIBArk, First in Boating on the Arkansas, an international river boat competition with a race from Salida to Cañon City. Uncover Colorado - Vacations, Travel & Tourism | Sitemap | Privacy Policy | Disclaimer. No Salida vacation is complete without experiencing a white water rafting trip in the Arkansas River. Arkansas River Tours - Rafting in Salida, Colorado Since 1973, ART has provided exceptional rafting adventures on the Arkansas River and the Gunnison Gorge. Princeton Hot Springs Resort and are available daily April through September. Smaller waves and splashes keep it cool and fun but without the stress. But it was in 1806 and 1807 when Zebulon Pike, Colorado’s most famous frontiersmen, came into the Upper Arkansas Valley area on an official mission to explore the headwaters of the Arkansas River, which at the time was thought to be the Red River. It’s a mix of mild to moderate whitewater, located between Salida and Cañon City. Raft with us on nearly every section we offer, including Browns Canyon National Monument, on the Arkansas River – all in one unforgettable 5 Day trip! Salida Rafting [trips tag=”salida”] We specialize in fully customizable Colorado rafting adventures on the Arkansas River out of Buena Vista, Colorado, as well as on Clear Creek out of Idaho Springs, Colorado. 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Travel & tourism | Sitemap | Privacy Policy | Disclaimer first settlers entered the Valley of a...