If you’ve ever watched a raft slicing through roaring rapids and wondered, “Could I do that?”, the answer is YES! White water rafting is an exhilarating, fun-filled adventure that’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned thrill-seekers. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly float or a heart-pounding ride through intense rapids, rafting offers an unforgettable experience on the water.
If you’re a first-time rafter, you might be wondering:
- Is white water rafting safe?
- What should I wear and bring?
- How difficult is it?
- What does the experience feel like?
Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Here’s everything you need to know before your first white water rafting trip, including what to expect, how to prepare, and why you’ll love every minute of it!
What to Expect on Your First White Water Rafting Trip
Rafting is an incredible mix of adventure, teamwork, and natural beauty. You’ll paddle through waves and rapids, enjoy breathtaking canyon views, and work together with your guide and fellow rafters to navigate the river.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what your first rafting experience will look like:
1. Arrival & Check-In
Once you arrive at your rafting outfitter, you’ll:
✅ Check in and meet your guides.
✅ Get a safety briefing and an overview of the trip.
✅ Get fitted with your helmet, life jacket, paddle, booties, and wetsuit.
2. The Shuttle Ride & River Launch
Many rafting trips start with a shuttle ride to the river launch point. This is a great time to ask your guide questions and take in the scenery. Once you arrive at the river, your guide will go over:
✅ How to paddle and work as a team.
✅ How to sit in the raft for stability and balance.
✅ What to do if you fall in (which is rare but part of the adventure!).
3. Paddling Through the Rapids
Once you hit the water, the real fun begins! Depending on the difficulty level of your trip, you might experience:
✔ Gentle, scenic floats with small ripples and waves.
✔ Moderate Class II-III rapids, which offer fun splashes and excitement.
✔ High-adrenaline Class IV-V rapids, where you’ll navigate intense waves and drops.
4. Scenic Breaks & Wildlife Watching
Between rapids, you’ll have time to relax, take in the scenery, and spot wildlife like eagles, bighorn sheep, and deer. Some rafting trips even include stops at beautiful sandy beaches or swimming spots.
5. The Takeout & Return Shuttle
At the end of your trip, you’ll paddle to the takeout point, help carry the raft back, and then hop on the shuttle to return to the base. Don’t forget to snap some group photos and celebrate your adventure!
How to Choose the Right White Water Rafting Trip
Not all rafting trips are the same! The intensity of your experience depends on the river’s rapids, which are classified from Class I (easy) to Class V (extreme).
Best Rafting Options Near Colorado Springs
Wolfpack Rafting and Broadmoor Outfitters is the ONLY rafting company who leaves from Colorado Springs! All other Arkansas River Outfitters will leave from Canon City.
Bighorn Sheep Canyon (Beginner-Friendly – Class II-III)
✔ Perfect for first-timers, families, and kids (ages 6+)
✔ Exciting but manageable rapids mixed with scenic floats
✔ Great chance to spot wildlife along the canyon walls
Royal Gorge (Advanced – Class III-V)
✔ High-adrenaline rapids for thrill-seekers
✔ Epic views as you paddle under the famous Royal Gorge Bridge
✔ Requires previous rafting experience or a strong sense of adventure
👉 Book Your Bighorn Sheep Canyon White Water Rafting Trip Here!
👉 Book Your Royal Gorge White Water Rafting Trip Here!
What to Wear & Bring for White Water Rafting
Dressing properly ensures comfort and safety on the river. Here’s what you should wear and bring:
What to Wear:
✔ Quick-dry clothing (Avoid cotton—it stays wet and cold!)
✔ Swimsuit or moisture-wicking shorts and t-shirt
✔ Secure water shoes or sandals with straps (No flip-flops!)
✔ Wetsuit (if needed) – Provided by most outfitters in months
What to Bring:
✔ Sunscreen (Water-resistant, SPF 50+)
✔ Sunglasses with a retainer strap
✔ Towel & dry clothes (for after your trip)
✔ Waterproof phone case or GoPro (if allowed)
🚫 What NOT to Bring:
❌ Loose jewelry
❌ Anything you wouldn’t want to lose in the water
❌ Phones (unless in a waterproof case)
Is White Water Rafting Safe for First-Timers?
Yes! Rafting is very safe when you go with a professional guide and outfitter. Here’s why:
✅ Expert Guides – Every trip includes a trained guide who will teach you how to paddle, steer, and stay safe.
✅ Safety Gear – Life jackets and helmets are provided.
✅ Beginner-Friendly Routes Available – You don’t have to tackle extreme rapids on your first trip!
As long as you listen to your guide and follow instructions, white water rafting is an exciting but safe adventure.
Why You Should Try White Water Rafting
Still on the fence? Here’s why rafting is an experience you don’t want to miss:
✔ It’s an adrenaline rush! – There’s nothing like the thrill of paddling through white water and feeling the power of the river.
✔ You’ll connect with nature. – Colorado’s rivers flow through breathtaking canyons and forests, making it one of the most scenic adventures you can have.
✔ It’s a great group activity. – Whether with friends, family, or coworkers, rafting is all about teamwork and shared excitement.
✔ It’s a unique way to explore Colorado. – While hiking and biking are great, rafting gives you a whole new perspective on the landscape.
Book Your White Water Rafting Adventure!
Whether you’re looking for a first-time, beginner-friendly float or a heart-racing ride on the Arkansas River, Broadmoor Outfitters offers the best guided rafting trips leaving from Colorado Springs.
