Suggested River Trips


Hint: If viewing from a smart phone, hold the phone sideways.

  • This document puposefully is not listing class III+ to IV day trips such as Brown’s, Shoshone, Westwater, and Numbers which are usually done by the “A” Team (A = Adrenaline-addicted).
  • Information given (especially in the Comments) are parameters designed to help decide if you want to lead a trip. Good points and trip description are left out due to space considerations. They are all good.
  • All trips listed are within a medium day’s drive of the Front Range; 455 miles to the San Juan is the longest distance. To go further afield, consider:
    • Montana – Smith River (lottery permit) or Missouri River
    • Teton/Yellowstone N.P. region – Snake and Yellowstone Rivers
    • Minnesota – Boundary Waters or Quetico (Canada)
    • Texas – Rio Grande – several sections in and near Big Bend N.P. and see Texas Paddling Trails for many other paddling options in Texas
    • Arkansas – Buffalo River
    • CANADA – Endless possibilities
  • The class rating and other details are subject to variation based upon water levels and many other factors. Other information in this listing is subject to change as well; so do your own research prior to selecting a trip to lead.

Poudre Paddlers has a nice list of lakes and rivers in the Colorado area at https://www.poudrepaddlers.org/descriptions-and-maps.html.