Question 1

When and where do we meet?

Accepted Answer

Plan to arrive 45 minutes before the scheduled trip departure time. Browns Canyon Intermediate Trip will leave at 10am. Family Float will leave at 11am. River Runners Browns Canyon is the meeting place for both trips available (24070 Co Rd 301, Buena Vista, CO 81211). We will end our trip there and would love for anyone to join us for lunch at 1pm at the restaurant at River Runners.

Question 2

How far is River Runners from the hotel?

Accepted Answer

River Runners is about a 10 minute drive from the Surf Hotel. There is plenty of parking available there.

Question 3

What if I want to be in the same boat as my friend/party?

Accepted Answer

Each raft fits around 6-7 people, we will assign boats to everyone the day of so just be sure to stay close to whoever you'd like to ride with. Tyler and Sarah will do their best to spend as much time with everyone.

Question 4

What should I wear/bring?

Accepted Answer

This is largely weather dependent, but you should plan to wear quick-dry clothing like fleece, poly-pro and board shorts, plus secure footwear like strapped sandals or an old pair of tennis shoes. Wetsuits, neoprene boots, and splash jackets are included in the cost of your trip. Cotton, flip-flops, and Crocs are not appropriate. We also recommend sunglasses, sunscreen, and personal drinking water. Your guide will have a dry bag for small items, but please keep towels and dry clothes in your vehicle.

Question 5

If someone in my party doesn't want to go, what should they do?

Accepted Answer

We completely understand that rafting isn't for everyone. We have chosen half-day trips so we aren't gone too long, anyone is welcome to join us at River Runners around 12:30 for lunch once we are off the river. If someone in your party does not want to go rafting, they are welcome to stay in town or at the hotel, or they can enjoy some food/drinks/scenery at River Runners' on-property restaurant called The Beach (see below). River Runners is about a 10 minute drive from the Surf Hotel. There is parking available.

Question 6

Is there a guide on each raft?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Each raft has a highly qualified guide. Each guide has completed an extensive training program with more than double the requirements set by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

Question 7

Is whitewater rafting safe?

Accepted Answer

Whitewater rafting is a fun summer activity with a range of difficulties for almost all ages and abilities, but as with any activity there are inherent risks and you will need to sign a waiver to participate. You have taken the first step of mitigating that risk by researching an experienced outfitter. Certain river trips have less risk than others and choosing an appropriate level of whitewater for your group is critical. Call 800-723-8987 to speak with a whitewater professional about your options.

Question 8

Can I go rafting if I can’t swim?

Accepted Answer

Swimming is a recommended skill for all whitewater activities, but not always mandatory. Beginner trips are less risky for non-swimmers, especially at lower to moderate water levels. Personal flotation devices are mandatory on every outing and are designed to help keep your head above water.

Question 9

Do we have to paddle?

Accepted Answer

You can choose a paddle raft (everyone paddles), an oar raft (guide rows and no one paddles) or a paddle assist (guide rows and guests help paddle).

Question 10

What are the age requirements to go rafting?

Accepted Answer

Family Float (Beginner) - Class I-II, recommended minimum age is 3 years old and at least 35 lbs
Browns Canyon (Intermediate) - Class III-IV, recommended minimum age is 6 years old and at least 50 lbs

Question 11

Are life jackets provided?

Accepted Answer

Yes, River Runners provide sthe highest quality Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices (pfds). Your pfd will be fitted and checked by a guide and all buckles must be clipped while on the river. Helmets are also required on every trip except the Family Float.

Question 12

Do people ever fall out of the raft?

Accepted Answer

Yes, people fall out of the raft from time to time, but if you pay attention and listen to your guide, the chances of falling out are small. Young children, people with disabilities and non-swimmers can request an oar raft with a senior guide, which will further reduce the risk of falling out.

Whitewater Rafting

Sunday, june 27th

What's the plan?

Check out Sarah kayaking in Browns Canyon in the summer of 2025!

Rafting Trips to Choose From...

-Family Float -
Beginner

$71/person

11am, Saturday June 26th

-Browns Canyon - Intermediate

$115/person

10am, Saturday June 26th

Now What?

Frequently asked questions

When and where do we meet?

How far is River Runners from the hotel?

What if I want to be in the same boat as my friend/party?

What should I wear/bring?

If someone in my party doesn't want to go, what should they do?

Is there a guide on each raft?

Is whitewater rafting safe?

Can I go rafting if I can’t swim?

Do we have to paddle?

What are the age requirements to go rafting?

Are life jackets provided?

Do people ever fall out of the raft?

Whitewater Rafting

Sunday, june 27th

What's the plan?

Check out Sarah kayaking in Browns Canyon in the summer of 2025!

Rafting Trips to Choose From...

-Family Float - Beginner

$71/person

11am, Saturday June 26th

-Browns Canyon - Intermediate

$115/person

10am, Saturday June 26th

Now What?

Frequently asked questions

When and where do we meet?

How far is River Runners from the hotel?

What if I want to be in the same boat as my friend/party?

What should I wear/bring?

If someone in my party doesn't want to go, what should they do?

Is there a guide on each raft?

Is whitewater rafting safe?

Can I go rafting if I can’t swim?

Do we have to paddle?

What are the age requirements to go rafting?

Are life jackets provided?

Do people ever fall out of the raft?

-Family Float -
Beginner