Raft + Via Ferrata Adventure

How a package works

A. First Activity

Embark on an unforgettable full-day adventure and experience the best of Colorado with two different activities. From one of our Idaho Springs or Buena Vista outposts, you will ascend to our Via Ferrata course. Your group will spend the morning (or afternoon) traversing the mountainside on this unique assisted climbing experience. Utilize a combination of iron rungs, bars, and bridges to climb up and across the mountain, and even experience an exciting freefall. Our Via Ferrata courses are seamlessly integrated into the cliffside terrain, offering panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains and views of the Arkansas River Valley or Idaho Springs below. Your knowledgeable guide will provide comprehensive instructions on the course before leading you into your adventure.

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B. Meal

Following your initial activity, it’s time to recharge with a lunch break. Depending on your excursion, lunch arrangements vary: AVA may provide a hearty meal, you’re welcome to bring your own packed lunch, or opt to grab a bite at a local restaurant. Refer to your trip description for specific details. Your guide will keep you informed about the schedule and meeting point for your subsequent adventure. Certain trips offer an express option, enabling guests to forgo the lunch break and proceed directly to their next adventure experience.

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C. Second Activity

Following lunch, reconvene with your guide to prepare for the next thrilling chapter of your Colorado outdoor experience. Whether you’re embarking on a family-friendly excursion or tackling challenging class IV or V whitewater, your group will set out on one of Colorado’s premier rivers. Guided by our seasoned guides, you’ll spend the afternoon immersed in the region’s awe-inspiring landscapes, navigating rapids along the river’s course. Feel the refreshing spray against your skin and the warmth of the sun on your hair as you ride the currents, embracing one of Colorado’s most distinctive adventure offerings.

We offer rafting and Via Ferrata packages at both our Buena Vista and Idaho Springs outposts.

*The order of activities may vary depending on your trip. Please check your booking for exact details.

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Our Trending Raft + Via Ferrata Packages

Whether you’re venturing around central Colorado or are spending some time in the Denver area, there are Rafting & Via Ferrata packages just a few steps away. Spend your day exploring the Arkansas River Valley in Buena Vista with this thrilling combo, or join us for an action-packed day battling the rapids of Clear Creek then traversing the cliffside above the historic town of Idaho Springs. These unique assisted rock climbing and mountain adventures will have your heart pounding, and when paired with the classic Colorado activity of whitewater rafting, you’ll be talking about your thrilling day for weeks.

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Maximum Adrenaline
Best for Adrenaline Junkies

The Lower Canyon 1/2 Day Rafting + Via Ferrata

This exciting full-day adventure experience combines rafting on the Lower Canyon portion of the Clear Creek with our thrilling Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata [...]

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River rafting in Browns Canyon, Colorado.
Full Intensity
Best for Adrenaline Junkies

The Lower Canyon on Clear Creek

Adrenaline seekers will love the Lower Canyon portion of Clear Creek, with opportunities to raft class IV and V rapids. This is a unique [...]

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Exciting & Active
Best for Land-Based Excitement

Zipline Half Day + Rock Climb Half Day

Immerse yourself in the great outdoors of the Arkansas River Valley with a rock climb + zipline package! This multi-adventure package offers the opportunity [...]

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River rafting in Browns Canyon, Colorado.
Maximum Adrenaline
Best for Adrenaline Junkies

Rappel into the Gauntlet

On this full-day whitewater rafting adventure, we’ll get your adrenaline flowing beginning with a rappel into the Granite Gorge! You’ll meet your raft for [...]

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Overnight Rafting Trip in Colorado
Leisurely
Best Lodging on a Budget

Campsites

Spend an evening under the Arkansas Valley stars at AVA’s Buena Vista campground. Located at the base of several 14,000-foot peaks, access to the [...]

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Leisurely
Best Basecamp Option

Cabins

Our rental cabins at our Buena Vista outpost offer unparalleled access to outdoor activities! Stay with us before or after your adventure and wake [...]

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Splashy & Moderate
Best for Experienced Rafters

Raft Rentals & Packages

Do you have experience rafting the Colorado River? That’s perfect because we have all the rafts and gear you need to build a righteous [...]

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River rafting in Browns Canyon, Colorado.
Wild & High Exertion
Best for Early Season Thrills

Dowd Chute

The Eagle River, just minutes from Vail and Beaver Creek, is the home of Dowd Chute, which offers some of the most thrilling and [...]

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What to know about Raft + Via Ferrata Adventure

Whether you’re venturing around central Colorado or are spending some time in the Denver area, Rafting & Via Ferrata packages are just a few steps away. Spend your day exploring the Arkansas River Valley in Buena Vista with this thrilling combo or join us for an action-packed day battling the rapids of Clear Creek then traversing the cliffside above the historic town of Idaho Springs. These unique assisted rock climbing and mountain adventures will have your heart pounding, and when paired with the classic Colorado activity of whitewater rafting, you’ll be talking about your thrilling day for weeks.

Mountain lake in the Colorado high country.

Best of Colorado

Wherever your Colorado adventure leads, you’ll be immersed in the splendor of the state’s great outdoors. Our Buena Vista outpost is fully immersed in the Rocky Mountains, and from here, paddle the best of the Arkansas River, keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife. Our Granite Via Ferrata course takes you high above the Arkansas River Valley offering vistas of the majestic Collegiate Peaks Mountain Range. Alternatively, just 30 minutes from Denver, Idaho Springs boasts an adventure getaway from the city. Raft down Clear Creek, passing through the historic mining valley and the charming town of Idaho Springs, flanked by the towering Colorado Rockies. Our Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata course at this location ascends into the cliffside for unparalleled panoramas of the town and Clear Creek below.

Whitewater Rafting with Kids in Colorado

Options for Everyone

Offering a range of options from family-friendly rafting to advanced whitewater excursions, both the Arkansas River and Clear Creek stand out as premier rafting destinations in the state. Thrill-seekers can opt for packages featuring rafting on challenging class IV or V rapids, while families can delight in milder rafting experiences on class III rapids. Via Ferrata adventures at both outposts provide another exhilarating experience for those 12 and up. Via Ferrata courses do not require previous climbing experience yet offer an exciting and accessible adventure for everyone with a moderate level of physical fitness.

Large group on a rafting adventure.

More Bang for Your Buck

A rafting and Via Ferrata package not only ensures that your group experiences a full day of outdoor fun but also optimizes your savings. We are committed to adventure opportunities that get everyone outside in Colorado’s great outdoors, with our multi-adventure packages intended to be a more cost-effective way to experience multiple trips. These packages provide the convenience of enjoying two adventures at a single location, along with experienced guides to ensure a seamless and fun day!

Rock climbing in the Colorado Mountains.

Two Convenient Locations

Choose a rafting and Via Ferrata package at our Buena Vista outpost for an authentic immersion into the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. Experience the thrill of rafting down the legendary Arkansas River, navigating through the stunning Browns Canyon National Monument, or one of the steepest sections of whitewater in the state. Your journey on our Granite Via Ferrata takes you up into the mountainside, offering unparalleled views of the Arkansas River Valley. Meanwhile, for those seeking a convenient day trip from Denver, our rafting and Via Ferrata adventure packages at our Idaho Springs outpost promise equally memorable experiences. Delight in a rafting excursion along Clear Creek, with picturesque vistas of historic Idaho Springs, before taking flight on our Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata, climbing into the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.

Group during safety instructions.

VIA FERRATA + NUMBERS RAFTING

Calling all thrill-seekers, this package is fit perfectly for you. You’ll kick off your day on the exposed cliffside above the Arkansas River Valley. Free fall on a 75-foot jump, ascend granite crags, rappel down a rock face, and even zipline during the Via Ferrata excursion.

You’ll take a much needed lunch break before you throw on a wetsuit and take on the Numbers section of the Arkansas River. The intermediate to advanced Class III and IV rapids will have you cruising through the whitewater and navigating your way through continuous stretches and ledge drops.

Van on the highway in the Colorado mountains.

WHAT TO BRING

Your Via Ferrata + Rafting package is a full-day of physical activity and adventure. We strongly recommend guests bring a water bottle that can be clipped in to their harness for the Via Ferrata. Closed-toe shoes are required for the Via Ferrata. We also recommend guests wear long active pants or capris. For rafting, guests must wear secure shoes (no flip flops or crocs), such as Tevas, Chacos, Keens or tennis shoes you don’t mind getting wet. Guests should also wear quick-dry clothing or a swimsuit for under their wetsuit. Please bring a change of clothes for the Via Ferrata tour.

What a Raft + Via Ferrata Adventure looks like

FAQs

With our rafting and Via Ferrata packages, you can seamlessly partake in both thrilling adventures within a single day, exploring Colorado’s rivers and mountains. A multi-adventure package is much more economical than booking two separate trips, while also guaranteeing a well-coordinated, excitement-filled day!

Upon booking your selected trip, please note that the order of adventures will be displayed on the booking engine. This order is determined by factors such as location, trip timing, and other considerations, and cannot be altered. No matter the order of your two adventures, we guarantee your group will have a remarkable experience!

Both our Buena Vista and Idaho Springs outposts feature unique rafting and Via Ferrata multi-adventure packages. Whether you hope to delve deeper into the mountains or stay closer to Denver, your adventure will be nothing short of extraordinary!

Please prepare for the rafting segment of your adventure by bringing suitable footwear. We recommend water shoes or other secure shoes that will stay on your feet and can get wet – no flip-flops or crocs, please! Additionally, we recommend quick-drying attire, sunscreen, and sunglasses secured with a strap. As for your Via Ferrata excursion, closed-toed shoes are mandatory, and we kindly request that you choose longer shorts or pants that can fit in your harness. Please avoid loose clothing, necklaces, or scarves.

Can’t decide which adventure to choose?

Too many options? Can’t decide which adventure to choose? Try one of our Adventure Packages and combine Whitewater Rafting with Ziplining, a Via Ferrata, course, UTV Rentals, or Rock Climbing, or choose a full day aerial adventure experience. And if you’re looking for something a little bit different, don’t worry, our Adventure Specialists can help you create your own custom adventure package!

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