10 miles and 7 Class III rapids through a national monument. The most popular trip on the Arkansas.
Browns Canyon National Monument on the Arkansas River
Class range
III–IV
Drive from shop
20–30 minutes
River
Arkansas River
About Browns Canyon
Browns Canyon is the most popular stretch of whitewater in Colorado. It runs through Browns Canyon National Monument, protected land with no road access, between Buena Vista and Salida. Granite walls, boulder gardens and Class III rapids like Zoom Flume, Pinball and Widow Maker make it a great first big-river trip and a favorite for repeat rafters.
At high water, usually in June, Browns runs 12-foot waves and gets serious. By July it settles into the classic summer run that works for families with kids 7 and up (50 lbs minimum).
What makes Browns Canyon special
Inside a national monument, with no roads in
Named rapids like Zoom Flume, Widow Maker and Raft Ripper
Half day, ¾ day, full day and overnight trips
Rafting trips on Browns Canyon
Five ways to run Browns Canyon, from a half day to a night in the canyon.
14 miles and 12 rapids through the most remote part of Browns Canyon.
The whole canyon, a riverside lunch and a hike into a side canyon. Just $50 more than the half day.
A shorter run through Lower Browns Canyon with Collegiate Peaks views. Best in late summer.
Raft into Browns Canyon, camp on a quiet riverbank, raft out. We handle the gear and the cooking.
Gallery
Browns Canyon rafting FAQ
Is Browns Canyon good for first-timers?
Yes at summer flows. Families with kids 7+ (50 lbs minimum) do great on the half day.
Where is Browns relative to Buena Vista?
Between Buena Vista and Salida on the Arkansas. We launch from near Buena Vista; shop is in Salida.
How do I book?
Book on the Browns Canyon landing page or call (719) 626-1350.