What to Pack (and What Not to Pack) for Your Aspen Rafting Trip

We Provide All the Essential Gear — at No Extra Cost

At Thunder River Adventures, we believe every guest deserves top-quality equipment without hidden fees. Unlike many outfitters that charge extra for cold-weather protection, we include all the gear you need on every trip:

• Helmet and PFD (life jacket)

• Wetsuit (farmer-John style for flexibility)

• Splash jacket for wind and water protection

• Neoprene booties for warmth and secure footing

• Fleece layers when temperatures are cooler

• Paddle sized for your height and trip type

Your guide will help you suit up, check fit, and make sure you’re comfortable before you get on the water.

What to Wear Under Your Gear

A good layering system keeps you warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s hot. Cotton should always be avoided — it soaks up water, holds moisture, and can make you very cold once you’re wet.

Recommended clothing:

• Swimsuit or board shorts (for under the wetsuit)

• Synthetic or moisture-wicking shirt (rash guard or sun shirt)

• Quick-dry shorts or leggings for warmer days

• Light fleece for early-season or cool weather

• Sun hat or baseball cap (fits under the helmet)

• Sunglasses with a retention strap — available for purchase if you forget yours

Your guide will always review the day’s conditions and advise whether extra layers are recommended. Temperatures on the river can be 10°F cooler than in town, so having options is key.

What to Bring With You

While most of what you need is provided, there are a few personal items that make your trip even smoother:

• Towel and a dry change of clothes for after the trip

• Waterproof camera or phone case (especially for scenic float or canyon cruise trips)

• Sunblock — apply before putting on gear

• Reusable water bottle

• Any personal medications (inhaler, diabetic monitor, etc.) — your guide will secure these safely

• Cash gratuity for your guide — always appreciated for great service

We also sell retention straps and small dry bags on the bus before departure for convenience.

What Not to Bring Rafting

Certain items don’t mix well with whitewater and can be lost or damaged. Leave these behind or locked in your vehicle:

• Phones or cameras without waterproof protection

• Loose jewelry or valuables

• Cotton jeans, T-shirts, or hoodies

• Crocs or flip-flops — they can slip off easily

• Heavy boots or sneakers that absorb water

• Expensive sunglasses without a strap

• Wallets, purses, or car keys (we’ll store them safely if needed)

Your goal is to stay light, mobile, and safe — and our team will help you double-check everything before launch.

Seasonal Packing Tips

Spring (May–June): High Water & Cooler Temps

Spring runoff means powerful whitewater and cool mountain air. We’ll outfit you with wetsuits, splash jackets, and fleece layers to stay warm. Guests who get cold easily should bring an extra fleece or synthetic base layer to wear under their wetsuit.

Summer (July–August): Warm & Splashy

Mid-summer is when rafting is at its most comfortable. You can usually leave the fleece behind and enjoy lighter clothing under your splash jacket. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses with a strap, and secure water shoes.

Fall (September–October): Cooler Mornings, Beautiful Colors

For late-season floats, temperatures can drop quickly in the morning. We’ll provide extra fleece layers and splash protection — and recommend bringing a light jacket or pullover for after the trip.

Safety and Experience You Can Count On

Every Thunder River Adventures trip is led by trained professionals who know the Roaring Fork River in every condition. Some of our guides have decades of Class IV and V experience, while all guides have a minimum of three years of professional guiding experience and are certified in swiftwater rescue and first aid.

Before each trip, guides review river conditions, outfit guests with the right gear, and make sure everyone understands how to stay safe and comfortable. Your safety, warmth, and enjoyment are our highest priorities.

What Makes Thunder River Adventures Different

• All gear included — no rental or add-on fees

• High-quality Sotar rafts and top-grade equipment

• Smaller trip sizes for personal attention

• Pickup options in Aspen and Snowmass Village

• Professional, local guides who live and work in the Roaring Fork Valley

With decades of combined experience and the best equipment in the business, you can relax and enjoy every moment on the river.

Final Checklist Before You Go

✅ Swimsuit or board shorts
✅ Quick-dry shirt or sun shirt
✅ Fleece layer if you get cold easily
✅ Secure footwear (no flip-flops)
✅ Sunscreen and sunglasses with strap
✅ Change of clothes and towel for after
✅ Big smile and sense of adventure

Book Your Aspen Rafting Trip Today

When you’re prepared and properly equipped, every rafting trip becomes a smooth, exciting, and comfortable experience. Whether you’re joining us for the Canyon Cruise, Scenic Float, or Slaughterhouse Section, the guides at Thunder River Adventures will make sure you’re geared up and ready for an unforgettable day.

👉 Book your rafting adventure today — and let us handle the gear while you focus on the fun.