RIVER TRIPS

Is rafting safe?
No. There are risks in any outdoor activity, whether you are rafting, backpacking, or rock climbing. These risks are what lend to the very nature of the experience and most often provide the excitement and adventure associated with the activity. Our guides undergo rigorous training that meets and exceeds state requirements, including learning principles of risk management and decision making that lend to minimizing, but never eliminating, the risk in each activity.
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Will my boat have a guide?
Yes, each boat will have a guide.

Do I need to know how to swim?
No, you are not required to know how to swim. In the pre-trip safety talk you will be instructed on how to assume the "white water swimming position" (lying on your back, feet in front of you to bounce off of obstacles, arms to the side to paddle away from hazards), to protect yourself in the water, how to identify and evade hazards in the river, and how to either maneuver back to the raft or get to the shore. However, if you are rafting the Royal Gorge or the Numbers, you are required to have class III rafting experience and are expected to know how to handle yourself in the water.
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What is the difference between an oar boat, combination boat and paddle boat?
In an oar boat, the guide will do all the work from the center of the boat using his/her oars. Oar boats are ideal for families and those looking to just relax, hang on and enjoy the scenery. An oar boat becomes a combination boat when we add up to four paddles for those in the group who would like to paddle some during the trip. Being in a paddle boat requires a commitment to paddle the entire length of the trip. The guide steers from back of the boat, calling out commands to the paddlers who provide the necessary momentum to move the boat down the river. You are more prone to falling out of a paddle boat and are required to be at least 14 years old to be in one. Additionally, if you are 14 or 15, previous class III rafting experience is required. Other restrictions may apply depending on the section of river and water level. Your trip leader will work with you to select the right type of boat(s) for your group.
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How many people fit in a raft?
An oar boat can hold up to eight people plus the guide, while a paddle boat can hold up to seven plus the guide. If you are in a group requiring more than one raft, your trip leader will work with you to appropriately divide the group into the boats.
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Do we need to rent wetsuits?
Wetsuits are available for rent. Some people like wetsuits because they may keep you warmer when in contact with water, which is colder in the spring and early summer, as well as during "high water" when it is running faster and does not have as much time to warm up. Additionally, wetsuits can help keep you warmer during inclement weather, which is both common and unpredictable in Colorado during the summer months. Wetsuits may also help guard against the potential shock associated with cold water immersion. If you are concerned about getting cold on your trip for any reason, we recommend that you rent a wetsuit for your personal comfort. Wetsuits are advised anytime the water levels are above 2800 CFS in the Royal Gorge and 900 CFS in the Numbers. Please refer to the Rafting Trip Comparison Chart for more information.
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What is the largest lifejacket you provide?
The largest Type V lifejacket approved by the Coast Guard allows for a 52" chest. This is what we provide.
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How are rapids classified?
Please refer to the Rafting Trip Comparison Chart for this information.
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Are helmets required?
Helmets are not required in Browns Canyon. However, they can be provided if you would like. Helmets are required for the Narrows, the Numbers and the Royal Gorge.
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Can I purchase my rafting photos online after my trip?
Yes - simply click on the link below for more information about how to purchase your photos online:

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MISCELLANEOUS

What do I need to bring?
Please refer to "Trip Forms" in Prepare to Go:
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Do my children need to read, understand and sign the release form?
Yes, everyone going on the trip must read, understand, and sign the release form.
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Can I make an alteration or amendment to my release form?
No changes or alterations are allowed to the release. Any release that we receive that has been altered, changed or is not signed by the proper parties will prohibit that guest or child from participating in the activity or going on any trip. No refunds will be given if the release form has been altered, changed or not signed.
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Is it appropriate to tip my guide?
Yes, it is appropriate to tip your guide. Tipping is industry appropriate, particularly if you have received exceptional customer service while recognizing their hard work in providing you with a quality, professional experience.
$5-7.00 per guest per day is typical.
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Do we have to pay the user fee on our trip if we are tax-exempt?
Yes. These charges are not a "tax", but a user fee assessed by the agency that governs the public land we operate on. The Arkansas River fee goes to the Colorado State Parks, the Gunnison River fee to the Bureau of Land Management, and fees associated with rock climbing, hiking and backpacking go to the United States Forest Service.
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What happens if the weather is bad?
With the exception of rock climbing, we will continue with all trips in the case of inclement weather, taking all necessary precautions given the weather conditions (i.e. rain, hail, wind, lightning). A rock climb will be canceled if it is raining, and unfortunately, we are not able to refund the trip if it can't be rescheduled.
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Where would I find more information about West Nile Virus?
www.fightthebitecolorado.com
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