Eagle River Rafting
Closest River to Vail & Beaver Creek
Seasonal River
Available May 15 to June 28
Looking for a whitewater adventure that’s exciting, scenic, and not too intense? The Lower Eagle River delivers. This half-day rafting trip offers Class II–III rapids, sweeping valley views, and plenty of splashy fun. When spring runoff starts to flow, there’s no better way to kick off summer in the Vail Valley than rafting the Lower Eagle River. This Class II–III section offers the perfect mix of fun waves, manageable rapids, and mountain scenery all within minutes of Vail and Beaver Creek.
The Lower Eagle is ideal for guests who want adventure without intensity. It’s fast enough to get your heart rate up and mellow enough for the whole family to enjoy. You’ll paddle through sweeping meadows, scenic canyons, and past wildlife-rich riverbanks. The Lower Eagle only runs during peak runoff usually from late May through early July. Once the snowmelt slows down, this section closes for the season. If you’re here in the spring or early summer, this is the trip for you and your group !
Looking for more adventure!? Dowd Chute is it, a pure class IV+ whitewater adventure, and an early-season favorite of our guides! If you’re looking for whitewater because you crave a challenge, this is your trip. Dowd Chute on the high-altitude, alpine Eagle River features continuous rapids and lots of paddling! The narrow Dowd Chute Rapid extends nearly a quarter of a mile and offers a thrilling elevation drop, so get ready to be splashed.
Choose Your Experience
Lower Eagle Rafting
Location
Vail / Beaver Creek
River
Eagle River
Adventure Time
2.5 hours
Total Time
3 hours
Tags
Family Experiences
Great for Groups
Per Guest
Adult (13+): $110
Child (≤12): $85
Must be at least
7 years old
Available
May 12 - Jul 05
Adventure level
Tags
Family Experiences
Great for Groups
River Rush Ahead
A great introduction for first-time rafters with a sense of adventure! The Lower Eagle (Class III) offers ten miles of rafting fun. Lively rapids throughout this section keep the adventure exciting. This is a great family rafting trip; no previous experience required.
A great introduction for first-time rafters with a sense of adventure! The Lower Eagle (Class III) offers ten miles of rafting fun. Lively rapids throughout this section keep the adventure exciting. This is a great family rafting trip; no previous experience required.
Dowd Chute Rafting
Location
Vail / Beaver Creek
River
Eagle River
Adventure Time
2.5 hours
Total Time
3 hours
Tags
Great for Groups
Thrill Seekers
Per Guest
All Ages: $145
Must be at least
16 years old
Available
May 12 - Jul 05
Adventure level
Tags
Great for Groups
Thrill Seekers
Real Whitewater Rafting
This is it, a pure class IV+ whitewater adventure, and an early-season favorite of our guides! If you’re looking for whitewater because you crave a challenge, this is your trip. Dowd Chute on the high-altitude, alpine Eagle River features continuous rapids and lots of paddling! The narrow Dowd Chute Rapid extends nearly a quarter of a mile and offers a thrilling elevation drop, so get ready to be splashed.
This is it, a pure class IV+ whitewater adventure, and an early-season favorite of our guides! If you’re looking for whitewater because you crave a challenge, this is your trip. Dowd Chute on the high-altitude, alpine Eagle River features continuous rapids and lots of paddling! The narrow Dowd Chute Rapid extends nearly a quarter of a mile and offers a thrilling elevation drop, so get ready to be splashed.
Eagle River – Signature Series
Location
Vail / Beaver Creek
River
Eagle River
Adventure Time
3 hours
Total Time
4 hours
Tags
Family Experiences
Great for Groups
Signature Series
Private Experience
$1,250 per raft.
Up to 6 per raft,
plus your guide.
Must be at least
7 years old
Available
May 15 - Jul 06
Adventure level
Tags
Family Experiences
Great for Groups
Signature Series
Choose Your Perfect Eagle River Half-Day Adventure
This Signature Eagle River rafting experience is built for flexibility giving you the opportunity to choose between two outstanding stretches of whitewater depending on the level of excitement you want. Whether you choose the playful excitement of the Lower Eagle or the high-adrenaline rush of Dowd Chutes, this trip delivers a world-class Colorado rafting experience with the service, comfort, and attention to detail that make it truly Signature.
This Signature Eagle River rafting experience is built for flexibility giving you the opportunity to choose between two outstanding stretches of whitewater depending on the level of excitement you want. Whether you choose the playful excitement of the Lower Eagle or the high-adrenaline rush of Dowd Chutes, this trip delivers a world-class Colorado rafting experience with the service, comfort, and attention to detail that make it truly Signature.
Option One: Lower Eagle Scenic Splash Run (Class III)
If you’re looking for the perfect mix of Colorado mountain scenery and fun with approachable whitewater, the Lower Eagle River Trip is an ideal choice.
This stretch features splashy Class III rapids, pools, and gorgeous canyon views as the river winds through the heart of the Vail Valley. It’s exciting, scenic, and incredibly enjoyable for a wide range of guests.
The Lower Eagle is especially well-suited for:
- • First-time rafters
- • Families with older kids
- • Groups looking for a thrilling but manageable adventure
It’s a classic Colorado rafting experience – high-energy, beautiful, and unforgettable.
Option Two: Dowd Chutes Whitewater Challenge (Class IV)
For guests seeking a more intense and advanced ride, you may want to choose the legendary Dowd Chutes section of the Eagle River.
Dowd is widely regarded as one of the most thrilling whitewater runs in the region featuring continuous Class IV rapids, technical lines, and powerful wave trains that demand strong paddling and a high level of focus.
This trip is built for experienced adventurers who want the river at its wildest.
Please note: Option Two is available only to guests who meet the experience and fitness criteria required for Class IV rafting. Our team will confirm eligibility before finalizing this selection.
We’ll Confirm Your Choice Personally
After booking, our office will contact you directly to:
- • Confirm whether you prefer Lower Eagle or Dowd Chutes
- • Review eligibility requirements for Dowd Chutes
- • Finalize trip logistics and ensure the best fit for your group
Seamless Pickup & Easy Base Access
This Signature Eagle River experience includes smooth, guided logistics from start to finish.
- • Your guide can provide hotel pickup for guests staying in the area
- • Snacks and beverages will be available for the drive and pre-trip meetup
- • Guests who prefer to drive themselves are welcome — your guide will meet you directly at the designated launch base with everything ready to go
Trip Details
Professional, certified whitewater guide
Raft and all required safety gear (helmet, PFD, paddle)
Wetsuits, splash jackets, and river booties (included if needed)
Dry bag for small personal items
Shuttle transportation to/from the river
Check-In: Arrive at the designated time specified in your confirmation email.
Waiver: All guests must sign a waiver (minors require parent/guardian signature)
Minimum age: 8 years old (dependent on flows)
Experience: No rafting experience required—great for first-timers and intermediate adventurers
Clothing: Wear quick-drying clothes and secure footwear (no flip-flops or slides)
Age and Weight Requirements: Minimum recommended ages vary depending on river flow and conditions. Participants must weigh at least 50 lbs.
Be ready to paddle and get wet!
The Lower Eagle offers one of the best early-season rafting runs in the Vail Valley. Fed by snowmelt, this section of the Eagle River features exciting Class II–III+ rapids—perfect for those looking for a splashy, fast-moving ride with plenty of scenic canyon views.
You’ll charge through fun rapids like “Trestle” and “Dead Cow,” cruise through sweeping bends, and maybe even spot wildlife like osprey or beavers along the banks. It’s a dynamic, approachable ride that’s great for adventurous families, teens, or anyone who wants a step up from a float trip without going full-on Class IV.
This trip is only available for a short window—typically late May through early July—so catch it while it’s flowing!
Do I need to arrive 30 minutes early?
No your trip time is your arrival time.
When is the best time to raft the Eagle River?
The Eagle River is typically runnable from late May through early July, depending on snowpack. June is peak season, when the river flows great and the rapids are exciting.
Is the Eagle River suitable for first-time rafters?
Yes! Most of our Eagle River trips are geared toward intermediate paddlers due to the swift current and splashy Class III–IV rapids. However, the Lower Eagle can be a wonderful family trip when the flows are down. If you're nervous, let us know , we’ll guide you to the best fit.
What do I need to bring?
We provide all safety gear, helmets, life jackets, and wetsuits. You should bring a swimsuit, quick-dry clothing, secure sandals or river shoes, and a towel for after. Leave valuables behind!
Are there family-friendly options on the Eagle River?
While parts of the Eagle are more challenging, we do offer family trips during lower water flows, typically early or late in the season. For younger kids or nervous adults, our nearby Colorado or Upper Colorado River trips might be a better fit.
Related Adventures
2 Hour Horseback Ride
Book this adventure!
Cowboy Cookout
Book this adventure!
Sporting Clays
Book this adventure!
Bair Ranch Off-Road Tours
Book this adventure!