USA · RAFTING TRIPS
Good rafting trips fill up weeks ahead; the great ones go first. Below: the 15 to book early, what each includes and how they differ.
Half-day whitewater rafting on the Middle Fork of the Flathead near West Glacier with Class II rapids, great guides, and big views.
“Family of 6, mostly first time whitewater rafters. This was the perfect trip. Our guide was amazing. The rafting skill and big emphasis on safety was very reassuring to the more anxious members of our group. Could not recommend this company more as a pick for whitewater rafting in glacier.”
Guided Upper Pigeon River rafting from Hartford with 70 rapids, Class 1 to 4 thrills, and all gear included.
“Our guide Eli was fantastic. Nobody fell overboard so he doesn't have to do alot of paperwork lol! All jokes aside I'd 100% do this again.”
Half-day class III rafting in Browns Canyon from Noah’s Ark in Buena Vista, helmet and life jacket included, morning or afternoon.
“Noah’s Ark was recommended to us by a local friend and we couldn’t be more happy. From the time you walk onto their property, through the end of your trip, you are treated with some of the best customer service I have ever experienced. Our guide Seth was an amazing leader: clear, specific and respectful with all his instructions. Even when we got off a little on timing he always remained calm, showing the leadership skills one would want from a guide. Amazing day with an amazing staff pretty much sums it up!!”
Family-friendly Class II to III Snake River rafting in Jackson Hole with Dave Hansen, scenic canyon views, and small-group guidance.
“The white water was just right for our family. We followed their suggestion to use wet suits . The scenery was superb. Vlad was experienced and excellent as a guide. I would highly recommend this experience. It was a highlight of our trip to Yellowstone and the Tetons.”
Half-day rafting on the Lower Animas River with mild Class I-III rapids, snacks, and scenic Durango views in a small group.
“It was a fun and exciting trip on the river with Sam Cook. He gave excellent instructions while reminding us to relax and enjoy the trip. He pointed out the trees and wildlife of interest. Safety was a priority along with fun. The entire staff at Mild2Wild was friendly and helpful. Very glad that I added this trip on the river to my itinerary while on vacation in Durango.”
Half-day whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River through Browns Canyon, with provided wetsuit gear, great guides, and rapids like Toilet Bowl.
“well organized, Blaine our guide was outstanding, funny, and competent. lots of fun and felt safe. people should expect a good work out paddling and you will get wet. we did the 1/2 day trip and found that to be very adequate.”
Full-day family-friendly rafting through Brown’s Canyon on the Arkansas River near Buena Vista with wetsuit gear and lunch included.
“Did the full day Browns Canyon rafting. Jade was a terrific guide. Our family of four includes two adventurous teenage boys. Our family had a blast! Thanks to the whole team.”
Moab half-day Colorado River rafting in Castle Valley with Fisher Towers views. Beginner-friendly class I and II rapids, gear and shuttle included.
“The Mild to Wild is really mild - but still very enjoyable. My family chose the Colorado River Tour. While it is called "white water rafting" there is very little white water, more of a lazy river. While our group was mostly 20-30-somethings and may have enjoyed something a little more adventurous- our guide, Irving, made the trip interesting with information about what we were seeing. It was also fun to see the mountains and rock formations from the river side rather than the road. We stopped and swam in the water - overall a great trip and we would do it again.”
Denali Canyon Wave rafting on the Nenana River, 11 miles of rapids with paddle or oar options, drysuit and pickup included.
“Amazing 2 hours with Amber on the river! Great fun and plenty of thrills without being scary. Highly recommend!”
Guided half-day rafting on the Colorado River through Glenwood Canyon, with Class III-IV rapids, gear included, and hot-springs soak options.
“Loved it! Beautiful scenery and fun guides! Would recommend to everyone Professional and organized and educational 😊😎😃😬”
2.5-hour Lower Animas rafting in Durango: Class II splashes plus a Class III wave, free parking, and round-trip shuttle. From $75.21.
“Great guide. Easy to book and easy to work with. Went with children and we felt very safe and crew was informative.”
Thrilling Upper Pigeon River whitewater rafting from Hartford, TN, with Smoky Mountains views, full gear, and expert guides on Class III-IV rapids.
“This was a great experience for my friends and I! Shane was a great guide and gave us a great time on the upper river!! I definitely recommend this company!! We will be returning.”
2-hour Yellowstone River rafting from Gardiner with wetsuit gear, Class II to III rapids, and a swim break in Yellowstone scenery.
“Great trip. The guides worked very hard. No huge rapids but great for families. Nice rafts and professional staff.”
Small-boat rafting on the Snake River in Jackson Hole, Class II-III rapids, provided gear, top guides, and big Teton views.
“Bryce was an outstanding guide who made our whitewater rafting trip both fun and exciting. The small boat tour offered a perfect, hands-on, and personal experience.”
Half-day Colorado River rafting in Moab through Castle Valley, with mild class II rapids, Fisher Towers views, and round-trip shuttle.
“Our guide Irving was great. He made sure we saw any wild life in the area including wild turkeys and bald eagles.”
Every kind of day out, and the best of each.
