Top Mistakes First-Time Rafters Make (and How to Avoid Them)
Rafting for the First Time: What to Expect
Whitewater rafting is one of the most exciting outdoor activities in Colorado — and it’s accessible to almost everyone. You don’t need to be an athlete or an expert swimmer; you just need to listen to your guide, work as a team, and come prepared.
At Thunder River Adventures, we help first-time rafters feel confident and comfortable from the moment they arrive. Each trip begins with a safety briefing and paddle talk, where guests learn how to sit, hold a paddle, and react in the unlikely event of a swim.
Still, even with the best guidance, there are a few common mistakes new rafters tend to make — and they’re all easy to avoid.
Mistake #1: Wearing the Wrong Clothes
The most frequent issue we see on the river? Guests wearing cotton. Cotton soaks up water and cools you down quickly — which can make you uncomfortable and even chilled.
How to Avoid It:
Wear synthetic or quick-drying fabrics like nylon or polyester. A swimsuit, sun shirt, and board shorts are ideal under your wetsuit. We provide wetsuits, booties, splash jackets, and fleece layers on every trip at no extra cost, so you’ll always be dressed appropriately for the conditions.
Mistake #2: Not Listening During the Paddle Talk
It’s easy to zone out during the safety talk — but it’s one of the most important parts of your day. The commands your guide gives on the river are designed for safety, coordination, and fun.
How to Avoid It:
Pay close attention during the briefing and ask questions if something’s unclear. Your guide will demonstrate how to sit, paddle, and brace your feet. Once you’re on the water, teamwork makes everything smoother (and a lot more fun).
Mistake #3: Booking the Wrong Trip for Your Group
Sometimes one person books for the group without realizing how different each section of the river can be. If the trip doesn’t match everyone’s comfort level, it can lead to unnecessary stress — or missed excitement.
How to Avoid It:
Talk to our team when booking. We’ll help you match your group to the right section:
Scenic Float Trip (Class I–II): Calm, relaxing, perfect for families with young kids or older adults.
Canyon Cruise (Class III): Splashy and fun, ideal for first-timers and adventurous families.
Slaughterhouse Section (Class IV): Nonstop action for experienced rafters and teens ready for a challenge.
Every trip is designed to fit a specific level of adventure — and we’re always happy to guide you toward the best fit.
Mistake #4: Forgetting the Essentials
A few small oversights can make your trip less comfortable — things like forgetting sunscreen, sunglasses with a strap, or a change of clothes for afterward.
How to Avoid It:
Here’s a simple pre-trip checklist:
Swimsuit or quick-dry clothing (no cotton)
Sunscreen and polarized sunglasses with a strap
Water shoes or secure sandals (no flip-flops or Crocs)
Towel and change of clothes for after the trip
Cash gratuity for your guide
Your guide will also double-check that everyone’s prepared before heading out.
Mistake #5: Tensing Up Instead of Having Fun
Some first-time rafters worry about falling out or doing something wrong, which can make them paddle less effectively. Staying relaxed — and trusting your guide — is the key to a great trip.
How to Avoid It:
Your guide is a professional with years of experience on the Roaring Fork River. Some of our guides have decades of Class IV and V experience, while all have a minimum of three years of professional guiding experience and are certified in swiftwater rescue and first aid.
Once you’re on the river, follow their lead, paddle with your team, and enjoy the ride — the guides are there to keep you safe and make it fun.
Mistake #6: Overestimating or Underestimating Your Comfort Level
Adventure means different things to different people. Some guests want maximum adrenaline; others prefer to relax and enjoy the scenery. Choosing the wrong trip can lead to frustration either way.
How to Avoid It:
Be honest about what kind of experience you want. If you’re nervous, start with a Scenic Float or Canyon Cruise. You’ll still get splashes, excitement, and teamwork — but at a comfortable pace. For repeat rafters or thrill-seekers, the Slaughterhouse Section offers an unforgettable challenge.
Mistake #7: Forgetting to Enjoy the Moment
It’s easy to get so focused on the next rapid or perfect paddle stroke that you forget to look around. The Roaring Fork Valley is one of the most scenic stretches of river in the country — with mountain views, wildlife, and clean, fresh air.
How to Avoid It:
Take a breath, look up, and enjoy the experience. Every splash and laugh with your crew is part of what makes rafting so memorable.
Why Experience and Preparation Matter
At Thunder River Adventures, we take pride in providing a personalized experience with small group sizes, top-quality gear, and the valley’s most experienced guides. Our approach ensures that first-timers feel prepared, supported, and confident from start to finish.
By following your guide’s instructions, dressing properly, and keeping a positive attitude, you’ll have a day that’s not just safe — it’s unforgettable.
Book Your First Rafting Trip with Confidence
If you’re ready to try rafting for the first time, there’s no better place than Aspen’s Roaring Fork River and no better team than Thunder River Adventures. We’ll guide you through every step, make sure you’re comfortable, and match you with the perfect trip for your group.
👉 Book your Aspen rafting trip today and experience Colorado’s rivers the right way — safely, confidently, and with the best guides in the business.
