👨👩👧👦 Top 5 Family-Friendly Rafting Trips in Colorado
5️⃣ Upper Colorado River — Pumphouse to Rancho del Rio
For families who want a relaxed, easygoing day on the water, the Upper Colorado River offers a perfect mix of calm water, gentle waves, and stunning canyon scenery.
This section, stretching from Pumphouse to Rancho del Rio, is ideal for families with younger children or those who want to float, swim, and soak up the sun. The warm water, sandy beaches, and occasional small rapids make it safe and fun for everyone.
Best for: Ages 3+
Trip Type: Calm scenic float
Season: May through September
💡 Insider Tip: Stop at Jump Rock for a safe swimming spot the kids will love, and bring a picnic for riverside lunch.
4️⃣ Shoshone Rapids — Colorado River (Glenwood Springs)
If your family is ready for something a bit splashier, the Shoshone section of the Colorado River is the perfect half-day adventure.
Located just outside Glenwood Springs, this Class III stretch delivers a short burst of fun whitewater followed by calm pools ideal for floating and relaxing.
Check Out Adventure Outdoors for trips on the Shoshone section.
It’s one of the best family rafting options in the state for convenience and excitement — and pairs perfectly with a post-trip soak at the Iron Mountain Hot Springs.
Best for: Ages 6+
Trip Type: Fun, fast-paced whitewater
Season: May through September
💡 Insider Tip: Families staying in Aspen can easily add Shoshone as a day trip — it’s only about an hour from town.
3️⃣ Scenic Float — Roaring Fork River (Aspen)
For families with younger children or multi-generational groups, our Scenic Float is the perfect choice.
This calm, relaxing stretch of the Roaring Fork River flows through lush alpine scenery, with just enough splash to keep things interesting.
It’s also one of the best sections in Colorado for wildlife viewing — guests often spot ospreys, eagles, mule deer, and even otters along the banks.
If anyone prefers to simply sit back and enjoy the ride, let us know ahead of time — our guides can row the boat while you relax and take in the views.
Best for: Ages 3 and up
Trip Type: Calm float, optional paddling
Season: May through September
💡 Insider Tip: This is the most peaceful way to experience Aspen’s beauty from the water. Bring a waterproof camera!
2️⃣ Canyon Cruise — Roaring Fork River (Aspen)
For families with kids aged 6 and up or first-time rafters looking for excitement, the Canyon Cruise offers the ideal mix of splash, scenery, and fun.
This Class III section features moderate rapids, playful waves, and calm stretches where you can take in the stunning canyon views.
It’s the perfect “first whitewater” experience — exciting enough for adventurous families, yet safe and comfortable thanks to Thunder River Adventures’ experienced guides and top-tier gear.
Best for: Ages 6+
Trip Type: Moderate whitewater, active paddling
Season: May through September
💡 Insider Tip: This trip is a favorite among families with teens — it’s thrilling, but not overwhelming.
1️⃣ Browns Canyon — Arkansas River (Buena Vista)
No list of Colorado rafting trips is complete without Browns Canyon, the state’s most iconic family rafting destination.
Designated as a National Monument, this stretch of the Arkansas River combines Class III whitewater with world-class scenery — granite cliffs, rolling waves, and endless sunshine.
The rapids are big enough to be exciting but spaced out perfectly for families. There’s a reason it’s the most popular rafting trip in Colorado — and it remains a must-do for any summer adventure.
For families traveling through central Colorado, we recommend Colorado Rafting Adventures, an outfitter specializing in professional rafting trips on the Arkansas River.
Best for: Ages 7+
Trip Type: Moderate whitewater
Season: May through August
💡 Insider Tip: Combine your Browns Canyon trip with a relaxing afternoon at nearby Mt. Princeton Hot Springs for the ultimate Colorado family adventure day.
Choosing the Right Trip for Your Family
When picking a family rafting trip, always consider:
Age and comfort level of your youngest participant.
Water levels and season: May–June brings high water, while July–September offers warmer, calmer trips.
Trip length: Shorter floats are best for first-timers or young kids.
At Thunder River Adventures, our professional guides help match your family with the perfect adventure — from relaxing scenic floats to exciting whitewater.
Why Families Trust Thunder River Adventures
We pride ourselves on offering safe, small-group rafting experiences led by highly trained, professional guides.
Every Thunder River Adventures guide has at least three years of professional guiding experience — with many boasting decades on Class IV and V rivers.
We provide top-quality gear (helmets, PFDs, wetsuits, splash jackets, booties, and fleece when needed) on every trip — all included at no extra cost.
Our goal is simple: give every family the best rafting experience from start to finish.
Book Your Family Rafting Adventure Today
Rafting is more than a day on the river — it’s a chance to make memories together in Colorado’s most beautiful places.
👉 Book your Aspen family rafting trip today with Thunder River Adventures, and discover why families from across Colorado and beyond trust us to make their rafting adventures safe, fun, and unforgettable.
