colorado river rafting
best colorado whitewater rafting
Western Slope SUP offers everything from scenic family rafting trips, to wilderness whitewater adventures. Our guides know the rivers of the North Fork Valley better than anyone, and are ready to share these amazing places with you. Our rafting trips tour high alpine forests, colorful desert canyons, and everything in between. We have just the trip you are looking for!
daily + overnight rafting trips
We offer half day, 3/4, full day, and overnight rafting trips. Round trip itineraries range from 3 hours to 3 days. Overnight and full day trips feature locally sourced organic meals from North Fork Valley farms and orchards.
one price, all-inclusive rafting
Our river trips include wetsuit, booties, and splashtop rentals, transportation from our shop to and from the river, world class guides, and delicious locally sourced meals. We never charge hidden fees.
Gunnison Gorge rafting (I/II)
A perfect day on the river for the whole family. Enjoy spectacular canyon scenery, splash through small waves, swim in the cool waters of the Gunnison River, view bald eagles, great blue heron and more!
heart of the valley rafting (II/III)
The perfect mix of whitewater action, and good old fashioned river cruising. This predominantly scenic cruise through the heart of the North Fork Valley is punctuated by multiple whitewater rapids, including the 1/2-mile-long class III “Ledges Section”
North Fork Gorge rafting (II+)
Explore the hidden world of the North Fork Gorge. View waterfalls, dripping springs, dinosaur tracks, and nesting eagles. Launches just a few minutes from our shop so you will be immersed in nature before you know it!
Anthracite Creek rafting (III)
Our most adventurous rafting trip. Get ready for non-stop whitewater on this heart pounding class III alpine creek. Bring your spirit of adventure, and get ready to paddle hard! Western Slope SUP is the first and only outfitter to offer this unique river tour.
Multi-Day colorado Rafting Trips
Join Western Slope SUP for up to 3 days of all-inclusive rafting in Colorado and Utah. Go for an overnight rafting trip in the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area, or a 3-day fully catered rafting adventure through Ruby and Horsethief Canyons on the Colorado River. Instructors will be available on and off the river to ensure your comfort, and take care of all your needs. A multi-day river tour with Western Slope SUP is the perfect opportunity to re-connect with family and friends, and unwind on the river.
Included:
All river and camping equipment (no additional rental fees)
All meals, prepared by your guides
Transportation
1-3 guides
One price (no additional use fees)
Gunnison gorge overnight rafting
Take your time exploring the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area. Raft through crystal clear waters, discover ancient archaeology, hike winding side canyons, and much more!
Overnight itineraries begin at $425
ruby horsethief multi-day rafting
Our ultimate overnight river adventure. Spend three unforgettable days deep in the colorful canyons of the Colorado River. Enjoy camping, hiking, and all the river time you need!
3-day trips begin at $625
colorado rafting faq
Are there any fitness requirements?
Anyone can raft with us. Your guide can row the raft while you ride along and enjoy the view, or choose a paddle option to be an active participant in your rafting experience. Generally, we offer paddle rafts on Anthracite Creek and the Heart of the Valley, and oar rafts on the North Fork Gorge and the Gunnison Gorge NCA. Paddle rafters should be in average physical shape.
Anthracite Creek rafting is physically demanding and requires all participants to be strong swimmers, and have a high level of physical fitness. Oar boats are not available on Anthracite Creek.
What is included?
Our rafting trips include all necessary equipment such as wetsuit, splashtop, and booties, guides, and transportation. Full day and overnight trips include organic, locally sourced meals from North Fork Valley farms and orchards.
What should I bring?
Dress to get wet, and dress weather appropriate. We recommend a swimsuit, or quick dry clothing, hat, and sunscreen. On cool days, our provided wetsuits can be worn over swimwear. For an extra layer, consider bringing a fleece top. No cotton please.
Securely fitting sandals such as Chacos, Tevas, or Keens make the best rafting footwear. Flip flops and Crocs are not allowed on whitewater rafting trips; however booties are available at no charge.
Please bring any medication you normally carry.
Please do not bring bulky or valuable items on the river such as towels, dry bags, keys, or wallets. Your guide will have a dry bag for small, necessary personal items. Valuable items can be locked in your car while you are on the river. We will hold your keys in a secure location while you are out.
Is rafting appropriate for all ages?
Age limits are as follows, there is no upper limit:
Gunnison Gorge NCA Rafting: Ages 3 and up
North Fork Gorge Rafting: Ages 3 and up
Heart of the Valley Rafting: Ages 6 and up
Anthracite Creek: Ages 12 and up
These age limits can adjust during high water (Late May/Early June). Please call our office at (970) 872-2352 to ensure your chosen rafting trip is appropriate for your entire group.
When is the best time to go rafting?
It is always a good time to raft in the North Fork Valley of Colorado. Whitewater rafting season begins in May, and usually last through the third week of June. The North Fork of the Gunnison River and Anthracite creek flow during this time only. Our rafting trips in the Gunnison Gorge NCA are available year-round. Late May and early June are high water in the Gunnison Gorge. This means cold, fast moving water, but no rapids larger than class II. From July onwards, the waters of the Gunnison River become clear, cool, and calm, with small class I/II rapids. If you are looking for a more adventurous river trip July-October, consider a guided stand up paddle, or kayak trip in the Gunnison Gorge NCA.
Where do we meet?
Rafting trips meet and conclude at Western Slope SUP in Downtown Hotchkiss, Colorado. Our address is 328 W Bridge St, Hotchkiss, Colorado.
How do we get to the river?
Transportation to and from the river is provided by air-conditioned 15 passenger van.
Is tipping the guide appropriate?
Like all service professionals, river guides accept gratuity. If you feel they did a great job, tipping is appropriate.