Buena Vista , United States

Brown's Canyon Half Day

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(976 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Colorado's most popular whitewater rafting trip. Exciting moderate level whitewater through Brown's Canyon National Monument. Spectacular scenery and lots of thrills and memories for a lifetime.

Available options

Brown's Canyon Half Day

Option 1: Our most popular trip! Moderate level whitewater trip through Brown's Canyon National Monument with spectacular 14,000' peaks as your backdrop. Great trip for anyone looking for an exciting whitewater

What's included

Professionally guided river trip

All mandatory rafting equipment (helmets, life jackets, paddles)

Detailed itinerary

Guests meet at the office, receive complimentary river gear, and then make the short ride to the river for a whitewater adventure they will not forget!

Stop 2

Guests will wind their way through Browns Canyon, experiencing plenty of thrilling moderate level whitewater and exciting rapids through a spectauclar National Monument Area!

What's not included

Gratuities

Professional photos of your adventure (optional)

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

971 reviews

5★

957

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

A minimum of 4 people per booking is required

Minimum age is 7 years

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Maximum weight not to exceed 300 lbs.

Meeting point

1 Mile south of Buena Vista just west of the airport

Important notes

• Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions
• Not recommended for pregnant women
• Minimum age is 7 years
• Wear comfortable quick drying clothes
• All trips meet 30 minutes prior to departure time.

About Buena Vista

Buena Vista, nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, is a charming town known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventure opportunities. With the Arkansas River running through it, Buena Vista is a paradise for whitewater rafting, fishing, and other water sports, as well as hiking, mountain biking, and skiing in the surrounding mountains.

Top Attractions

Cottonwood Pass

Cottonwood Pass is a scenic mountain pass offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. It's a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Nature Half day to full day Free

Buena Vista Whitewater Park

This man-made whitewater park on the Arkansas River offers excellent conditions for kayaking, rafting, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Adventure Half day Varies by activity and rental fees

Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort

A historic hot springs resort offering thermal pools, spa services, and stunning mountain views. It's a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate.

Relaxation Half day to full day Moderate to expensive

Collegiate Peaks

A range of 14,000-foot peaks offering challenging hikes and breathtaking views. The area is a paradise for mountaineers and hikers.

Nature Full day Free

Buena Vista Heritage Museum

This museum showcases the history of Buena Vista and the surrounding area, with exhibits on mining, ranching, and early settlers.

Historical 1-2 hours Budget

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rocky Mountain Trout

Fresh trout caught in the Arkansas River, often grilled or pan-seared and served with local vegetables.

Main course Gluten-free options available

Bison Burger

A burger made with locally sourced bison meat, often served with artisanal cheeses and fresh toppings.

Main course Gluten-free buns available

Green Chile

A spicy sauce made from green chili peppers, often served with meats or as a topping for dishes.

Side dish Vegetarian and vegan options available

Popular Activities

Whitewater rafting Kayaking Mountain biking Hiking Rock climbing Hot springs Spa treatments Scenic drives

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Buena Vista, offering ideal conditions for outdoor activities like rafting, hiking, and mountain biking. The weather is warm, and the town is bustling with events and festivals.

15-30°C (59-86°F) 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone (MT) - GMT-7 (standard time), GMT-6 (daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Buena Vista is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of altitude sickness, wildlife, and outdoor hazards. Common sense and basic precautions are recommended.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of altitude sickness and stay hydrated
• Carry bear spray when hiking in bear country
• Be cautious of wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk

Getting there

By air

Colorado Springs Airport • 70 miles (113 km)
Denver International Airport • 150 miles (241 km)

By bus

Buena Vista Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The local bus service is convenient for getting around town and to popular spots like Cottonwood Pass and the Arkansas River.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Downtown Buena Vista South Main Street East Side

Day trips

Salida

25 miles (40 km) • Half day to full day

Salida is a charming town known for its historic downtown, art galleries, and outdoor recreation opportunities. It's a great place to explore local culture and history.

Cottonwood Pass

10 miles (16 km) • Half day to full day

Cottonwood Pass offers stunning mountain views, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. It's a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort

15 miles (24 km) • Half day to full day

This historic hot springs resort offers thermal pools, spa services, and stunning mountain views. It's a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate.

Festivals

Buena Vista Music Festival • July Buena Vista Farmers Market • Summer months (Saturdays) Buena Vista Art Walk • Monthly (typically the first Friday of the month)

Pro tips

Stay hydrated and be aware of altitude sickness
Book accommodations and popular activities in advance, especially during peak season
Dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions
Explore the town's local shops, galleries, and restaurants for a unique experience
Consider hiring a local guide for outdoor activities to enhance your experience and safety