About Thunder River Adventures
At Thunder River Adventures, we believe every great adventure begins on the water. Founded in 2024 by a young couple with a deep love for the outdoors, we’re proud to be a locally owned and operated outfitter serving the Roaring Fork Valley and Aspen, Colorado.
Thunder River Adventures was created from a simple idea — that the valley deserved more than just standard tours. We set out to build a new kind of professional guided experience: one that connects people to nature, celebrates local beauty, and creates unforgettable memories on every trip.
From thrilling whitewater rafting to peaceful scenic float trips, our goal is to help every guest experience the Roaring Fork Valley like a local — not just as a visitor. We’re passionate about sharing the landscapes, stories, and energy that make this place so special.
Whether you’re a first-time paddler or a seasoned adventurer, our team will make sure your time on the river is safe, memorable, and full of excitement.
Start your journey with us today — and see why Thunder River Adventures is quickly becoming the best raft outfitter in Aspen, Colorado.
Hours
8:30am – 6:00pm Weekdays
8:30am – 6:00pm Weekends
Location
Aspen, Colorado
Meet the Staff
Kate McCollum Edmonds
Kate grew up in West Virginia where she learned to be a whitewater rafting guide and where she ultimately fell in love with the outdoors. She has been guiding rivers for over a decade with many of those seasons spent in the beautiful Roaring Fork and Arkansas River Valleys. Kate’s most meaningful role now is as the Mom of two amazing little girls. Everyday she strives to set a positive example for them as an unstoppable female force in a male-dominated trade. Kate approaches whitewater with the same care and focus she applies to all areas of her life. Ultimately, Kate’s talent as a guide shines through her love of the river. So come on and “put on your big boy/ girl britches on” and join her on the river.
Chris Edmonds
“Alright!” Chris may not sound like it but he grew up in England. As soon as he could, Chris moved to the mountains of Colorado where he fell in love with skiing, whitewater and Kate. During the winter months, you’ll find Chris teaching skiing on our local mountains but during the summer he will be on the river. Chris has now been a whitewater rafting guide for over a decade and is experienced on all local sections of river. He is an outdoor professional who seeks to provide his guests and family with the best outdoor experience of their lives. Chris also loves to train new paddlers and seasoned guides alike on how to successfully navigate even the most challenging sections of whitewater. “The proof’s in the pudding!”
Andy Payne
“Well butter my butt and call me a biscuit!” Our senior guide Andy is from Kentucky! He is 28 years old and has been a whitewater rafting guide for over five years. Andy moved to Colorado to live, work, and play in the mountains that he now calls home. He is very excited to work for Thunder River Adventures this summer and absolutely loves to be on the river guiding rafts, as well as, meeting new people. He just can’t get enough of whitewater and one of his favorite past times is kayaking with friends after he gets off of work. Andy hopes to see you all on the water this summer!
Hannah Krewson
Born and raised in Philly, Hannah brings East Coast grit and big mountain heart to the Thunder River team. She’s been guiding since 2016 and is not only a pro on the water — she’s also our licensed First Aid & CPR instructor, keeping both guests and guides sharp and safe. When she’s not crushing rapids, you’ll find her ski patrolling at Sunlight or lending a hand at the hospital. Whether it’s a throw bag or a trauma kit, Hannah’s always got your back.
Tucker Almond
Hailing from the heart of Louisiana, Tucker brought his southern grit and infectious energy to the rivers of Aspen four years ago. What started as a summer adventure quickly turned into a full-blown passion for whitewater. With a sharp eye for reading rapids and a steady hand on the oars, Tucker brings a calm confidence to every trip. Whether he’s navigating technical water or cracking jokes with guests, Tucker is all about creating unforgettable experiences on the river.
Josh Partin
Born and raised in Louisiana, Josh made the leap to the Rockies with his good friend Tucker, trading bayous for big water. Since then, he’s built a reputation as a reliable, enthusiastic guide with a deep love for whitewater and a big respect for the river. Josh thrives on the adrenaline of the rapids and the connections made on every trip. When he’s not guiding, you’ll find him exploring new stretches of water or swapping stories around a campfire.
Why Choose Us?
At Thunder River Adventures, we set ourselves apart by being a small, employee-owned adventure outfitter built on passion, professionalism, and local pride. As Aspen’s newest whitewater rafting company, we bring fresh energy to the river — combining dedicated, knowledgeable guides, an unwavering commitment to safety, and yes — brand-new top-quality gear.
While our company may be new, our senior guides are not. With over a decade of experience navigating and interpreting the rivers of Colorado, our team knows how to turn every trip into an unforgettable adventure — whether it’s a heart-pounding whitewater run or a peaceful scenic float.
When you raft with us, you’re joining our family. Our goal is to inspire your sense of adventure, connect you with the natural beauty of the Roaring Fork Valley, and help you feel completely confident and excited about your time on the river.
Start your Aspen adventure with Thunder River Adventures today — and experience the river the way locals do.