Best of Salida  - Whitewater Rafting on the Arkansas River

Deep in the heart of land locked Colorado, Salida is definitely a watersports town. The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area is 148 miles of river park providing a challenging playground for rafters and kayakers.

Ride the Arkansas for the Thrill of Your Life

Colorado is definitely the land of wicked white water and the Arkansas is the best of the best when it comes to rafting and kayaking. 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.

Highly valued for its diverse recreation, this stretch of river is used by more than 500,000 rafters, kayakers, anglers, campers and wildlife viewers each year. Trips vary in difficulty and length, allowing flexibility. There are hundreds of access sites, but the most popular are at Granite, Buena Vista, Fisherman Bridge, Ruby Mountain, Hecla Junction, Stone Bridge, Big Bend, Salida, Rancor, Vallie Bridge, Lone Pine, Pinnacle Rock, Spikebuck, Parkdale and Cañon City.

The internationally renowned "numbers" rapids lie a short distance north of Buena Vista, with views to the west of the Collegiate Peaks. These are world class kayaking waters. The river continues through narrow Brown's Canyon where it flows away from the highway and is adjacent to a railroad. Its remote character and quality rapids make this the most popular segment of the Arkansas River. The 1,000-foot sheer rock walls of Royal Gorge ascend above the segment of the river as it flows into Cañon City. Rapids such as Sunshine Falls and Sledgehammer make running this stretch an adventure. Boaters on the Arkansas should be able to assess their own abilities and equipment in the relation to the International Scale of River Difficulty.

Being at high elevation and fueled mainly by melting snow, the Arkansas is a cold river. During the spring runoff it is full of freshly melted snow, and the temperature of the water is especially cold. Warm days and cool to freezing nights can be expected in the mountains during the summer. July and August are usually the warmest months. During this time afternoon thunderstorms are common. Be prepared for both warm and chilly weather, as well as for rain showers. Proper dress when participating in whitewater sports is essential. Wear shoes that can protect feet if you bounce off rocks or walk out of a canyon in the event of an accident. Wet suits are mandatory when air and water temperature added together total 100 degrees or less. If total is less than 80 degrees, a full set of waterproof or wool garments on top of the wet suit should be worn.

International Scale of River Difficulty

If rapids on a river generally fit into one of the following classifications, but the water temperature is below 50 degrees F., or if the trip is an extended trip in a wilderness area, the river should be considered one class more difficult than normal.

The Nature of Whitewater

Tumbling whitewater isn't your normal wet stuff. For starters, it begins its life as a hunk of snow or ice up on some mountain. and when the spring sun thaws it enough to start it trickling down, it still possesses one quality that sets it apart: until it leaves the mountains, it's going to be cold! Tiny rivulets dribble through bramble thickets and down rocky mountainsides until, flowing together, they merge into tiny rivers just deep enough to wet the bottom of a kayak. In most cases it's many, many miles of gradual swelling and filling before thousands of these streams join to make an Arkansas River.Even when these waters are wide enough or deep enough to be boatable, they're likely to be swift and rocky. That is why the perfect craft for negotiating such fast falling rivers is a kayak.

Kayak is an Eskimo word, and kayaks originated as seacraft for a hardy band of ice-bound nomads who needed to catch walrus and seal to survive. These Eskimo kayaks were astonishingly similar to the boats we use today. Sealskin stretched over a frame of wood or bone with just enough room in its innards to hold one hunter made the perfect boat to take on the rolling seas off Canada or Greenland. Maneuverable, water-tight and fast, the Eskimo's kayak, propelled by sharp thrusts of his double bladed paddle, gave him dominion over the off-shore waters and the sea creatures that dwelled there.

On the Arkansas, just about every possible range of difficult water is available, from meek to mighty, scenic to scary and often these extremes can be found in just a few miles from each other. The best rule of thumb to follow is "always scout it before you shoot it." Even the best boaters make it a point to check out unknown stretches of water from the bank before they paddle them.

Water moving in thick, tumbling currents has a topography all its own. Your success as a kayaker will depend on your ability to "read" the water, to understand how rocks, waves and currents will affect your boat. One big factor is that not all river water flows downstream. Behind every obstacle that protrudes above water (and at the bottom of chutes) lies an eddy, a piece of water which has an upstream current. The bigger the obstacle and the faster the current that flows around it, the stronger the upstream current will be. A good eddy allows a kayaker to nip in, nose pointed upriver, and rest while he looks over his should at the next rapid.

Standing wavers are another phenomenon of heavy water. Found at the bottom of chutes and above buried obstacles, these are waves that don't go anyplace and maintain a fairly constant height above the surrounding water. many kayakers enjoy paddling upstream to the reverse side of a standing wave and can spend good lengths of time"surfing" it.

Guides and Trips

One of the biggest recreation draws of the Upper Arkansas Valley is rafting. Available through one of the many professional rafting companies in the valley are everything from exciting half day trips through Brown's Canyon or to overnight or multi day excursions on the river. Certainly some sections of the river are more dangerous and challenging than others, but most of the professional outfitters in the area who make their living guiding groups down the river can negotiate the Arkansas during any season and through any water level. Some rafting companies take walk-ins but it is a good idea to make reservations at least a day in advance.

For ton of information about top US rivers go to: All About Rivers.com

ACQUIRED TASTES WHITEWATER RAFTING
Acquired Tastes specializes in high-quality, reasonably priced, 1, 2, and 3 day trips on the Arkansas River. Our trips include state-of-the-art self-bailing rafts with foot cones, experienced guides and great lunches
27410 CR 319, Buena Vista, CO 81211 toll free: 800-888-8582
www.atraft.com

AMERICAN ADVENTURE EXPEDITIONS
Mild to wild rafting on the Arkansas River. Our highly trained professional guides provide you with a comfortable and fun outdoor experience. Four convenient locations; Buena Vista, Breckenridge, Salida, Royal Gorge. Ask about our group rates and family programs. Other activities include kayaking, rock climbing, backpacking, mountain biking, ice climbing
toll free: 800-288-0675
www.americanadventure.com

ARKANSAS RIVER TOURS
Pioneers of paddle rafting in the ROYAL GORGE region. 1/4 to 3 Day trips on the ARKANSAS RIVER. Family trips in Bighorn Canyon to the extreme Class IV-V wildwater of the ROYAL GORGE. Convenient riverside location. Wilderness multi-day trips on the GUNNISON and DOLORES RIVERS. Guided float fishing trips. Group discounts. Teen Whitewater Camps.
PO Box 337, Cotopaxi, CO 81223 toll free: 800-321-4352
www.arkansasrivertours.com

BILL DVORAK KAYAK & RAFTING EXPEDITIONS
'Outfitters since 1969'. We have diverse expeditions available from 1/2 to 12 days on 10 major SW Rivers. Float trips to Class V. We provide self-bailing, paddle or oared rafts, inflatable kayaks, instructional clinics in kayaks, canoes, rafts & swiftwater rescue. 'Combination Trips' include river, mountain biking, horseback, 4WD, fishing. Family/group discounts. Free brochure.
17921 US Highway 285, Nathrop, CO 81236 toll free: 800-824-3795; fax: 719-539-3378
Website: www.dvorakexpeditions.com

BUFFALO JOE'S WHITEWATER RAFTING
Est. 1978 - Offering 1/2 day to multi-day trips in Brown's Canyon, Royal Gorge, Numbers and Narrows on the Arkansas River. Full day trips include steak lunch (vegetarian meals available). Mountain bike tours/rentals. Group discounts/free brochures. Buena Vista and Canon City locations.
PO Box 1526, Buena Vista, CO 81211 phone: 719-395-7803; toll free: 866-Buff-Joe
http://www.buffalojoe.com

CANYON MARINE WHITEWATER EXPEDITIONS
We've made the investment of time and resources to assemble some of the best river guides in the country for one reason-- to give you our best river trip possible. Join us for an adventure on the Arkansas or guided fly-fishing on private water. Free brochure/Group Leader Packet.
phone: 719 539-4444; toll free: 800-539-4447
canyonmarine.com

CLEAR CREEK RAFTING CO.
Experience Colorado's whitewater! With two great rivers and two convenient locations there's always something for everyone-beginner to advanced. Take a trip on the world famous ARKANSAS RIVER through the Royal Gorge, Bighorn Sheep Canyon or Brown's Canyon. Or come try an exciting trip on CLEAR CREEK, just 30 minutes west of Denver. FREE WETSUIT USE! Group discounts! Call for details and to make a reservation.
350 Whitewater Rd, PO Box 3178, Idaho Springs, CO 80452-3178 phone: 303-567-1000; toll free: 800-353-9901; fax: 303-277-9919
clearcreekrafting.com

COLORADO WHITEWATER EXPEDITIONS
Canon City, CO 81212 toll free: 877-RAFT-CWE
Website: www.raftcwe.com

COLORADO WHITEWATER PHOTOGRAPHY
phone: 719-539-2249; toll free: 800-331-0070
Website: www.lspphoto.com

ECHO CANYON RIVER EXPEDITIONS
ARKANSAS RIVER trips in the spectacular ROYAL GORGE region, 1/2 to 3 days. Our 2-day wilderness PIEDRA RIVER and GUNNISON GORGE river trips focus on gold medal fishing, whitewater and scenic side hikes. You can be certain that the staff at Echo Canyon (established 1978) will provide you with our absolute finest river experience. Self-bailing rafts guaranteed! Weekday & group rates available. FREE color brochure.
45000 US Hwy 50 West, Canon City, CO 81212 phone: 719-275-3154; toll free: 800-748-2953
Website: echocanyonrafting.com

GOOD TIMES RAFTING TOURS
Enjoy an exciting day of fun and breathtaking beauty on the Arkansas, Blue or Colorado Rivers. Our trips offer something for everyone…from novice to experienced rafters. Full-day and half-day trips available at very competitive rates. Locations in Breckenridge, Frisco, Buena Vista and Glenwood Springs. We focus on safe family fun! For the trip of a lifetime call Good Times!
PO Box 340, Frisco, CO 80443 phone: 970-453-5559; toll free: 800-808-0357

HIGHSIDE ADVENTURE TOURS
Fun affordable raft trips on the Arkansas, Colorado, and Clear Creek Rivers. Convenient locations in Idaho Springs (only minutes from Denver), Summit County, and Buena Vista. Offering trips for all ages and abilities. Exciting whitewater and family float trips. 1/2 day to multi-day trips. Hot BBQ lunches. Group rates available.
Toll free: 800-997-3448
www.raftingcolorado.com

LAKOTA RIVER GUIDES
Rivers and mountains help us keep life in perspective. Float/family trips to Class V. Vail based specializes in Eagle and Colorado river trips including scenic Glenwood Canyon. Terrific family outings. Twin Lakes operation - near Independence Pass, Hwy. 82. Whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River plus camping, hiking and fishing. Cabins, store, restaurant on-site
toll free: 800-274-0636
www.lakotariver.com

NOAH'S ARK Whitewater Rafting Co.
23010 Hwy 285 South
Buena Vista 719-395-2158.

PERFORMANCE TOURS
Performance Tours everything from relaxing scenic float trips to action packed, adrenaline pumping whitewater trips on the Arkansas, Blue and Colorado Rivers. Let our highly qualified staff host your adventure on world class rivers through beautiful canyons with spectacular mountain scenery as your backdrop. Call today and join us for a memorable Colorado experience. Excellent safety record. Group discounts. Class I-V trips.3 convenient locations: Breckenridge, Buena Vista, Royal Gorge.
toll free: 800-328-7238
www.performancetours.com

River Runners
24070 County Road 301
Buena Vista, Colorado 81211
Toll Free: 877-723-8938
http://www.riverrunnersltd.com
Products and Services: Raft the Royal Gorge Colorado Springs and Denver Whitewater Rafting on the Arkansas River in Colorado with River Runners Whitewater Rafting Since 1972.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN ADVENTURES, INC.
Let us show you the excitement of Rocky Mountain whitewater. We offer beginning to advanced level 1/2 day to multi-day whitewater adventures on the CACHE LE POUDRE, ARKANSAS, NORTH PLATTE, DOLORES and UPPER COLORADO Rivers. Wilderness journeys, trout fishing and kayaking instruction are also available. Offices in Estes Park, Ft. Collins & Buena Vista
PO Box 1989, Ft. Collins, CO 80522 phone: 970-493-4005; toll free: 800-858-6808; fax: 970-493-3150
shoprma.com

TIMBERWOLF WHITEWATER EXPEDITIONS
Timberwolf has been providing high quality whitewater rafting adventures since 1979. Specializing on the Arkansas River with 1/2 day to 4 day trips through all popular sections like Brown's Canyon, Royal Gorge, Bighorn Sheep Canyon, and the Numbers. Float fishing trips. Group discounts. Expert guides. During April and May experience a 3 day wilderness raft trip on the Dolores River. Colorado's most beautiful scenic river.
4305 E. Hwy 50, Salida, CO 81201 phone: 719-539-7508; toll free: 800-843-8448
www.timberwolfrafting.com

WHITEWATER ENCOUNTERS
FREE WETSUIT USE! We want you to enjoy the thrill, not feel the chill during your raft trip. Offering 1/2 day to 3-day adventures on the Arkansas River, from scenic family float trips to intense whitewater paddling trips. Also offering rafting/lodging packages. Located between Salida and Buena Vista. Group and youth prices! Free brochure!
14825 US Highway 285, Salida, CO 81201 phone: 719-530-0937; toll free: 800-530-8362
www.weraft.com

WHITEWATER VOYAGEURS
We are a small family run company. You won't be lost in the crowd and will receive the individualized treatment needed to make your trip special. We concentrate on making your whitewater adventure fun and safe. Our head guide is an EMT. We also offer great Raft & Stay rates at the Rainbow Inn.
105 East U.S. Highway 50, Salida, CO 81201 phone: 719-539-4444; toll free: 800-539-4447
www.whitewatervoyageurs.com

WILDERNESS AWARE RAFTING
Offering personalized adventures with the extra touch of quality that earned us the COLORADO TOURISM COMPANY OF THE YEAR award. Specializing in self-contained wilderness multi-day trips of 2-10 days on the COLORADO, ARKANSAS, GUNNISON GORGE, NORTH PLATTE and DOLORES Rivers. Daily 1/2 - 1 day launches on the exciting ARKANSAS. Paddle and oar powered rafts, inflatable kayaks. Wildwater, family whitewater, guided float fishing. Group rates. FREE color brochure.
PO Box 1550 AR, Buena Vista, CO 81211 phone: 719-395-2112; toll free: 800-462-7238; fax: 719-395-6716
www.inaraft.com

4-CORNERS RAFTING
With us, safety with fun is job one on America's most popular river, the Arkansas. Modern self-bailing rafts with foot cups guaranteed. Outstanding guides--personable and well-educated. Families, and groups our specialties. Scenic whitewater floats and float fishing. Liberal cancellation policy. Operating high-quality, reasonably priced trips since 1976.PO Box 219, Nathrop, CO 81236 toll free: 800-332-7238
www.fourcornersrafting.com

GEAR

Safety Gear
Kayaking demands the appropriate safety gear. First and foremost is a personal floatation device (lifejacket.)Colorado law requires that a type I, II, III or IV personal floatation device be worn at all times by persons on the river. Current legislation's says that not boater may be on the water without a U.S. Coast Guard-approved buoyancy device readily accessible for kayakers, that means on you!) And this Coast guard approval is a very stringent business, involving exacting tests of buoyancy and durability. Wet suits are good to have, too, especially early in the season when the rivers are coldest. Made of neoprene, they are snug, fairly comfortable and serve only one purpose: to prevent hypothermia if you have to swim. They are available in many styles, but the most popular model for kayaking is the "farmer-john", a suite that enclosed your arms, torso, crotch and upper thighs in heat-trapping neoprene.

Hypothermia comes under many labels, but they all add up to the same thing. Very similar to the deepfreeze anesthesia used in surgery, hypothermia means that your body temperature is below what is should be (just like the "exposure" skiers and outdoorsmen must guard against). When hypothermic, your body loses its ability to produce heat rapidly enough to offset the conditions causing body heat loss.

The following are good sources for rafting, kayaking and canoeing gear in the Upper Arkansas Valley.

Colorado Kayak Supply
22495 US Hwy 285
Nathrop, Co 81236
719-395-2422

Inflatable Restoration & Repair
3244 E. US. Hwy 50
Salida, CO
(719) 539-9751