There is perhaps no better way to experience the mountains and waters of Colorado than by rafting down the Arkansas River and then speeding through the Rockies on a train. RaftMasters offers a package including either a nine- or 12-mile rafting trip that winds through the Royal Gorge on the Arkansas River. After a long day on the water, a train picks rafters up and takes them back to their point of departure.
Rafting packages are available for all difficulties, although it is recommended that families take the beginners level. Prices vary depending on level of difficulty and length. For July trips, prices begin at $103 for adults and $44 for children, as of January 2011.
Crested Butte raft trips are an affordable way to experience the waters of Colorado in July. The raft trips begin at $35, as of January 2011. Crested Butte offers some challenging rivers for experienced rafters, and the currents are especially strong in the summer months.
The Taylor River and Black Canyon rafting trips are advanced and best taken with a guide. Packages typically include a guide and all gear.
The Colorado River is one of the most commonly recommended rafting trips in Colorado, especially for those who want to raft during the summer months. The rapids are prime from mid June through late August.
Wilderness Aware Rafting has two packages for those wanting to explore the Colorado River: a full-day through Little Gore Canyon, which begins at $90 as of January 2011, and an overnight to the Upper Colorado River, priced at $360. Both trips are inside Rocky Mountain National Park and offer an invigorating approach to enjoying the outdoors.
Buffalo Joe's offers substantial discounts for groups of rafters, for typically more than 10 people who want to explore the waters of Colorado. The rafting discount program offers 10 to 20 percent off regular rates. As a small company, Buffalo Joe acknowledges it is flexible with rates and packages, and can typically make something work for a group's financial situation.
Its main goal is to ensure as many people as possible can enjoy the Colorado waters. Depending on the course, July prices begin at $40 per person with the group discount, as of January 2011.
