Raft Through Browns Canyon National Monument with Adventure Outdoors
The Arkansas River is Colorado’s crown jewel of whitewater—and one of the most rafted rivers in the entire country. Carving its way through the heart of the Rockies, it delivers a mix of breathtaking scenery, epic rapids, and untouched wilderness, making it a must-do for every adventure seeker.
At Colorado Rafting Adventures / Adventure Outdoors, we guide unforgettable rafting trips on this legendary river, including the world-famous Browns Canyon National Monument, located just outside of Buena Vista.
Browns Canyon National Monument, Colorado’s Natural Playground
Declared a National Monument in 2015, Browns Canyon is a protected area of rugged granite cliffs, pine forests, and dynamic whitewater that flows for miles through a pristine river corridor.
What Makes Browns Canyon So Special?
Browns Canyon National Monument is one of Colorado’s most iconic natural treasures and a rare destination where you can experience a national monument from the seat of a raft. Designated in 2015, the monument protects over 21,000 acres of wild, untouched terrain, including one of the most scenic and exciting stretches of the Arkansas River. Located between Buena Vista and Salida, this stunning granite canyon offers rafters a true sense of remoteness, even though it’s just minutes from town.
The canyon’s walls rise steeply above the river, enclosing a high-desert landscape rich with wildlife and geological beauty. From golden eagles and bighorn sheep to mule deer and towering rock spires, every bend of the river feels like a journey deeper into Colorado’s wild heart. Rapids like Zoom Flume, Pinball, and Big Drop add just the right amount of splashy fun without being too extreme—making Browns Canyon a top choice for first-timers, families, and adventure seekers alike. Because it’s federally protected, rafting here also means supporting public lands and preserving this beautiful corridor for future generations.
Your Arkansas River Adventure
Whether you’re new to rafting or chasing the next adrenaline rush, the Arkansas River offers a wide variety of trips to match your skill level, group size, and vacation schedule.
Browns Canyon
The most popular section is Browns Canyon, a Class III run that strikes the perfect balance between fun rapids and incredible mountain scenery. It’s exciting enough to get your adrenaline going, but mellow enough for first-timers and kids as young as 6. It’s the quintessential half-day or full-day rafting experience in Colorado and a must-do if you’re staying in Buena Vista or Salida.
The Numbers
For more advanced rafters, The Numbers offers one of the most thrilling Class IV+ stretches in the state. Located just north of Buena Vista, this section is known for its steep drops, narrow channels, and continuous whitewater. Rapids like Number 1 through Number 7, Widow maker, and Tombstone keep paddlers on their toes and make for an intense, athletic adventure—especially during peak runoff in May and June.
Where Is the Arkansas River?
Our trips run out of our base near Buena Vista, Colorado—right in the heart of the Upper Arkansas River Valley.
- 1 hour from Vail/ Beaver creek
- 2 hours from Colorado Springs
- 2 hours from Denver
- 1 hour from Salida, Twin Lakes, and Leadville
This region is known for its 300+ days of sunshine, high alpine views, and endless options for post-rafting fun, hot springs, hiking, mountain biking, and great dining are all nearby.
What’s Included in Your Rafting Trip?
Top-Tier Equipment – Helmets, paddles, PFDs, splash gear, and river shoes included
Friendly, Pro Guides – CPR-certified, trained, and fun!
No Hidden Fees – What you see is what you pay
Transportation Provided – From check-in to the river and back
Family- and Group-Friendly – Private boat options and custom departure times available
Who Should Raft the Arkansas River?
- Families with kids ages 8+ (Browns Canyon is ideal!)
- Couples and friends looking for a day of scenic adventure
- Groups like corporate teams, reunions, and school programs
- Adrenaline lovers chasing high water in May & June
