Whitewater Rafting in Buena Vista & ACROSS COLORADO
A Legacy of Excellence Since 1976
For 50 years, Wilderness Aware has set the standard for Arkansas River rafting. Discover why generations of rafters trust us with their adventure.
Experience world-class whitewater rafting through Browns Canyon National Monument with Colorado's top-rated outfitter. Perfect for families, first-timers, and adventure lovers.
- 5-Star Rating on TripAdvisor
- Convenient Riverfront Location – Less Shuttle Time
- Free River Gear
- Free Lunch on Full-Day Trips
- Professional Photos Taken on Every Trip
- 50 Years Guiding Colorado’s Best Rivers
Our most advanced white water trip
- Ages 14+
- Half-Day & Full-Day Options
- Buena Vista, CO
ADVANCED WHITE WATER, ICONIC SCENERY
- Ages 14+
- Full-Day Options
- Canon City, CO
BEGINNER AND FAMILY TRIPS
- Ages 4+
- Half-Day and Quarter-Day Options
- Buena Vista, CO
WHY WILDERNESS AWARE RAFTING
Popular Buena Vista , COLORADO white water rafting trips and beyond
Wilderness Aware is the premier Colorado and Buena Vista white water rafting outfitter since 1976. Known for providing thrilling river rafting experiences on five different rivers throughout the state—including sections of the Arkansas River near Buena Vista, Salida, Cañon City and beyond. With 50+ years of expertise white water rafting in Colorado and extensive knowledge of the area’s waterways, Wilderness Aware has become a trusted provider of unforgettable rafting trips. Whether you’re a seasoned rafter or a first-time adventurer, Wilderness Aware offers a range of options for Colorado rafting. Join us for an experience of a lifetime and discover the beauty and excitement of Colorado and Buena Vista white water rafting.
EXPERIENCE THE BEST RAFTING IN COLORADO
Buena Vista white water rafting
Trips Run May 1st – Labor Day: Join us every spring – September for an adrenaline-packed journey through thrilling rapids set against stunning Colorado backdrops. Reserve your spot now on one of our day trips or multi-day trips. Join us for memories that will last a lifetime.
Maximum Thrills. Expert Guides: Our trained and experienced guides ensure a safe yet exhilarating experience as you navigate class II to IV rapids along one of five Colorado Rivers. Immerse yourself in beautiful landscapes and encounter stunning wildlife along the way.
Logistics? Don’t Worry: We handle every detail, so you can focus on the thrill of the rapids and the breathtaking scenery. Our expert guides ensure a seamless journey, providing top-notch equipment, safety briefings, and logistical support. We’ve got you covered.
More ARIZONA & COLORADO RAFTING TRIPS
Buena Vista rafting is powered by the iconic Arkansas River, home to some of the best Arkansas River whitewater rafting in the country. With four distinct sections to explore, there’s something for every adventurer. Browns Canyon rafting is the most popular, perfect for both first-timers and seasoned paddlers. The Numbers rafting section offers a fast-paced, technical thrill. For dramatic views and big rapids, Royal Gorge rafting delivers an unforgettable Arkansas River rafting experience. We also raft the Milk Run and Lower Browns Canyon sections, perfect for families with young children.
No matter which section or river you choose, Buena Vista white water rafting and Salt River rafting in Arizona promise a truly unforgettable journey.
WHY COLORADO RAFTING
PREMIER
ROCKY MOUNTAIN
RAFTING
AT A GLANCE
A TRIP FOR ANYONE: From gentle, family-friendly floats to adrenaline-pumping rapids, Colorado's rivers cater to all levels of experience. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned rafter, there's a river here that matches your thrill-seeking appetite.
BREATHTAKING SCENERY: As you navigate the rapids, you'll be surrounded by Colorado’s stunning natural beauty, from rocky canyons to lush riverbanks. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including eagles and elk, enhancing your outdoor adventure.
MAY-SEPTEMBER SEASON: Colorado's rafting season extends from the snowmelt of May through the warm days of September, offering a refreshing escape during the summer. This long season makes it easy to plan a trip that fits your schedule, with different water levels presenting new challenges throughout the months.
PREPARE FOR YOUR TRIP
Get set for your adventure! Here, you’ll find everything you need to gear up and get ready. From essential packing lists and detailed directions to convenient waiver forms and comprehensive river maps, we’ve got you covered. Prepare to dive into the excitement of white water rafting with confidence and ease.
SPOTS ARE FILLING FAST!
BOOK YOUR TRIP NOW
Choose from a variety of Colorado rivers, day trips, and multi-day trips to find just the right option for you and your crew. Better hustle, because they’re booking up quick!
Browse Rafting Trips by Departure Location
Use this interactive map to see all our rafting departure locations. Click a yellow pin to learn more about the rivers, trip types, and experiences Wilderness Aware offers.
ABOUT
WILDERNESS
AWARE
RAFTING
ABOUT WILDERNESS AWARE RAFTING
Wilderness Aware Rafting has stayed true to its name since 1976, emphasizing outstanding outdoor experiences on seven of the most amazing rivers in the American West, including rivers in Colorado, Utah, and Arizona. We offer an unparalleled customer experience that emphasizes safety and sharing our passion for the outdoors and the special places we visit. Five of the seven rivers we guide trips on are within designated wilderness areas.
Nestled in the heart of the Rockies near Buena Vista, Colorado, we enjoy the highest concentration of 14,000-foot peaks in the state, world-class whitewater rafting, kayaking, climbing, skiing, mountain biking, fishing, hiking, natural hot springs, and extensive off-road trails—all in our backyard. Our community is comprised of outdoor enthusiasts who share our excitement with visitors from all over the world in a small-town atmosphere.
