Arkansas River
Group of people rafting on the Arkansas River, Colorado
Group of people rafting on the Arkansas River, Colorado

Arkansas River Tours and Tickets

2,168 reviews

Originating in the Rocky Mountains, the Arkansas River flows through four states before emptying into the mighty Mississippi. The part of the river near its Colorado headwater is a top rafting destination, with rapids ranging from mild to extreme as the waterway winds through the scenic Royal Gorge.

  • Colorado, 81212

Tours and Tickets to Experience Arkansas River

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What are people saying about Arkansas River

Rhonda_W, Aug 2023
Awesome
Cooper was a good guide, Dvorak is great company. Entire experience was well worth the money. My family and I would raft with them again.
SAYONEE_J, Jul 2023
Good experience
It’s a great experience in the summer. You can do the half day trip if you don’t have much time. The host were amazing and very sweet
Gabriel_V, Jun 2023
Al and Dvorak Rafting will not steer you wrong!!!
We had a wonderful time on the river!! Our guide, Al, was amazing and made us feel comfortable and confident on our first experience on white water. We highly recommend the Dvorak team! Al and the whole staff will not steer you wrong!!
Joel_H, Jul 2022
My two kids and rafted...
My two kids and rafted down the numbers with Jose and two other nice ladies. Had a great day and a good shore lunch. Flow in the river was a tad low but Jose was a great guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
People Also Ask
Q:Can you raft the entire Arkansas River?
A:It would be a long journey since the Arkansas River is 1,469 miles (2,364 kilometers) long—most guided white-water rafting trips on the Arkansas River range from half-day outings to full-day excursions. Popular sections of white water include Bighorn Sheep Canyon, Royal Gorge, Browns Canyon, Milk Run, and The Numbers.
Q:Can you swim in the Arkansas River in Colorado?
A:Yes, you can swim in the Arkansas River in Colorado. The river's headwaters are located near Leadville, Colorado, ensuring pristine water that's great for taking a dip. It's important to ask locals about safe places to swim, as fast-moving currents and underwater hazards mean some sections are best avoided.
Q:What is the best way to experience the Arkansas River?
A:White-water rafting and leisurely float trips are great ways to experience the Arkansas River. Churning rapids in sections like Browns Canyon National Monument, Bighorn Sheep Canyon, and Royal Gorge showcase the river's adventurous side. For a more laid-back experience, head for the gentler Cottonwood Canyon and Lower Browns Canyon sections.
Q:What is the best time to go to the Arkansas River?
A:Melting snow turns the Arkansas River into a rushing torrent, so May and June are good choices for adventurous white-water rafting trips. However, spring water can be downright cold. Opt for white-water rafting excursions or float trips in July or August for warmer water, sunny days, and moderate water flows.
Q:Should you book an Arkansas River tour in advance?
A:Yes, you should book an Arkansas River trip in advance. Booking early is especially important if you're traveling during the busy school vacation months when popular departure times fill up quickly. Some rafting trips may be less expensive when booked in advance—prices can rise as the busy season approaches.
Q:How long is an Arkansas River tour?
A:Arkansas River tours vary in length from half-day outings to multi-day adventures. Shorter rafting trips head to river sections, including Bighorn Sheep Canyon, Royal Gorge, Cottonwood Canyon, and Milk Run. Multi-day rafting trips generally include meals, with lodging options that from river-side wilderness camping to comfortable overnights in nearby inns.