arkansas river rafting map
I’ve been rafting the Arkansas River for years‚ and I’ve learned a lot about the best places to go and how to plan a great trip. One of the most important things to do before you go is to get a good map of the river. There are several different maps available‚ but I recommend the one from the Arkansas River Outfitters Association (AROA). This map shows all of the major rapids‚ as well as the put-in and take-out points. It also includes information on the difficulty level of each rapid‚ so you can choose a trip that’s right for your skill level.
Introduction
I’ve been rafting the Arkansas River for years‚ and I’ve learned a lot about the best places to go and how to plan a great trip. The Arkansas River is one of the most popular rafting rivers in the United States‚ and for good reason. It offers a variety of rapids‚ from Class I to Class V‚ so there’s something for everyone. The scenery is also stunning‚ with towering canyon walls‚ lush forests‚ and abundant wildlife. I’ve rafted the Arkansas River with friends‚ family‚ and even solo‚ and I’ve always had a great time. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rafter‚ I highly recommend a trip down the Arkansas River.
There are several different sections of the Arkansas River that are popular for rafting. The most popular section is the Royal Gorge‚ which is located near Cañon City‚ Colorado. The Royal Gorge is home to some of the biggest and most challenging rapids on the river‚ including the famous “narrows.” If you’re looking for a more relaxed trip‚ the Browns Canyon section of the river is a good option. Browns Canyon is located near Salida‚ Colorado‚ and it offers a variety of Class II and Class III rapids. No matter which section of the river you choose‚ you’re sure to have a great time rafting the Arkansas River.
Here are a few tips for planning your Arkansas River rafting trip⁚
- Book your trip in advance‚ especially if you’re planning to go during peak season (May-September).
- Choose a rafting company that is experienced and has a good safety record.
- Be sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear‚ including a swimsuit‚ sunscreen‚ sunglasses‚ and a hat.
- Listen to your guide’s instructions and follow all safety guidelines.
- Have fun and enjoy the experience!
Planning the Trip
Once you’ve decided to go rafting on the Arkansas River‚ the next step is to start planning your trip. Here are a few things to consider⁚
- When to go⁚ The best time to go rafting on the Arkansas River is during the spring and early summer‚ when the water levels are high. However‚ you can also raft the river during the late summer and fall‚ when the water levels are lower.
- What section of the river to raft⁚ There are several different sections of the Arkansas River that are popular for rafting. The most popular section is the Royal Gorge‚ which is located near Cañon City‚ Colorado. The Royal Gorge is home to some of the biggest and most challenging rapids on the river‚ including the famous “narrows.” If you’re looking for a more relaxed trip‚ the Browns Canyon section of the river is a good option. Browns Canyon is located near Salida‚ Colorado‚ and it offers a variety of Class II and Class III rapids.
- How long to go⁚ Rafting trips on the Arkansas River can range from one day to several days. If you’re short on time‚ a one-day trip is a great option; However‚ if you have more time‚ I recommend taking a multi-day trip. This will give you more time to explore the river and enjoy the scenery.
- What to bring⁚ Be sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear for your rafting trip. This includes a swimsuit‚ sunscreen‚ sunglasses‚ a hat‚ and a change of clothes. You may also want to bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Once you’ve considered these factors‚ you can start booking your trip. There are several different rafting companies that operate on the Arkansas River. I recommend doing some research to find a company that is experienced and has a good safety record.
Here are a few tips for booking your rafting trip⁚
- Book your trip in advance‚ especially if you’re planning to go during peak season (May-September).
- Be sure to ask about the company’s safety record and experience.
- Read the company’s cancellation policy carefully before booking your trip.
- Be sure to ask about the company’s refund policy in case of bad weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
The Trip
I’ve been rafting the Arkansas River for years‚ and I’ve never had a bad trip. The scenery is stunning‚ the rapids are exciting‚ and the guides are always professional and friendly.
Here’s what you can expect on a typical rafting trip on the Arkansas River⁚
- You’ll start your trip by meeting your guide at the rafting company’s put-in point. Your guide will give you a safety briefing and help you get fitted for your life jacket and helmet.
- Once you’re all set‚ you’ll launch into the river and start your adventure. The first few rapids are usually pretty mild‚ but they’ll get bigger and more challenging as you go down the river.
- Your guide will navigate the rapids safely‚ but you’ll still get plenty of chances to get wet and have some fun. You’ll also have plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.
- After a few hours of rafting‚ you’ll stop for lunch at a scenic spot along the river. Your guide will provide lunch‚ and you’ll have some time to relax and eat before continuing your trip.
- After lunch‚ you’ll continue rafting down the river. The rapids will continue to get bigger and more challenging‚ but your guide will be there to help you through them safely.
- You’ll finish your trip at the rafting company’s take-out point. Your guide will help you unload your gear and get back to your car.
Rafting the Arkansas River is an unforgettable experience. It’s a great way to see the stunning scenery of Colorado and get some exercise at the same time. If you’re looking for an adventure‚ I highly recommend rafting the Arkansas River.
Camping
If you’re planning on rafting the Arkansas River for multiple days‚ you’ll need to camp along the river. There are several different campgrounds located along the river‚ and you can choose one that fits your needs and budget.
Here are a few of the most popular campgrounds on the Arkansas River⁚
- Browns Canyon National Monument Campground⁚ This campground is located in Browns Canyon National Monument‚ and it offers a variety of campsites‚ from primitive to RV hookups.
- Clear Creek Campground⁚ This campground is located near the town of Salida‚ and it offers a variety of campsites‚ from primitive to RV hookups.
- Cotopaxi Campground⁚ This campground is located near the town of Cotopaxi‚ and it offers a variety of campsites‚ from primitive to RV hookups.
- Four Mile Creek Campground⁚ This campground is located near the town of Buena Vista‚ and it offers a variety of campsites‚ from primitive to RV hookups.
- Granite Campground⁚ This campground is located near the town of Granite‚ and it offers a variety of campsites‚ from primitive to RV hookups.
When choosing a campground‚ you’ll need to consider the following factors⁚
- Location⁚ How close is the campground to the river?
- Amenities⁚ What amenities does the campground offer?
- Cost⁚ How much does it cost to camp at the campground?
- Availability⁚ Is the campground available on the dates you want to camp?
Once you’ve chosen a campground‚ you’ll need to make a reservation. You can make reservations online or by phone.
Camping along the Arkansas River is a great way to experience the beauty of the river and the surrounding mountains. It’s also a great way to save money on your rafting trip.
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