Complete Guide to Whitewater Rafting on Clear Creek
Clear Creek Whitewater Rafting: A Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about rafting Clear Creek
If you’re looking for big adventure close to Denver, Clear Creek delivers some of the most exciting whitewater rafting in Colorado. From beginner-friendly splashy runs to heart-pounding Class V rapids, this iconic Front Range river offers something for nearly every experience level—all just minutes from the city.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know before rafting Clear Creek, including where it’s located, the best sections to run, difficulty levels, trip lengths, seasonal timing, and where to eat and drink afterward.
Where Is Clear Creek?
Clear Creek flows out of the Rocky Mountains and winds through Clear Creek Canyon, following I-70 between Denver and the Continental Divide. It’s one of the most accessible whitewater rivers in Colorado, making it perfect for half-day trips, first-time rafters, and adrenaline seekers alike.
Where We Raft on Clear Creek
At Colorado Rafting Company, we run all of our Clear Creek rafting trips from the historic river corridor of Idaho Springs, located just 30 minutes west of Denver.
Our trips cover a 5–6 mile stretch of Clear Creek, depending on difficulty level, featuring everything from scenic canyon floats to steep, technical whitewater packed with nonstop rapids.
How Far Is Clear Creek
Denver: Clear Creek rafting trips launch in Idaho Springs, just 30 minutes west of downtown Denver (approximately 30 miles) via I-70, making it one of the closest whitewater rafting destinations to the city.
Colorado Springs: Clear Creek is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes away (about 75 miles), with a straightforward drive north on I-25 before connecting to I-70 west.Summit County: Clear Creek is easily accessible from Breckenridge, Dillon, Frisco, and Silverthorne, with an average drive time of about 45 minutes from most Summit County locations via I-70.
Best Sections for Clear Creek Rafting
Clear Creek is divided into several distinct sections, each offering a different type of experience. Trips are typically categorized by beginner, intermediate, and advanced difficulty.
🟢 Clear Creek Beginner Section (Class II–III)
Best for: First-time rafters, families, youth groups, and mixed-experience groups
Spanning approximately 6 miles, this trip blends thrilling rapids with calm floating sections, making it an ideal introduction to whitewater rafting.
You’ll splash through Class II–III rapids while learning paddling techniques with guidance from our professional river guides. Between rapids, enjoy a relaxing float through the historic mining town of Idaho Springs, passing landmarks like:
- The Argo Gold Mine
- The Charlie Taylor waterwheel
- Scenic canyon walls and potential wildlife sightings
This trip offers the perfect balance of excitement and accessibility—and is one of the most popular rafting options near Denver.
🔵 Clear Creek Intermediate Rafting Section (Class III–IV)
Best for: Adventurous beginners, active travelers, and returning rafters
This exciting Clear Creek run delivers a steady dose of Class III–IV rapids, including local favorites:
- Nomad
- Fall River
- Phoenix
- Deliverance
- Outer Limits (the grand finale)
This stretch drops about 75 feet per mile, creating fast-moving water that requires active paddling, teamwork, and responsiveness. Expect to get wet and work together as a crew.
While all are welcome, good physical condition and swimming ability are recommended for this trip.
🔴 Clear Creek Advanced Rafting Section (Class IV–V)
Best for: Experienced rafters seeking extreme whitewater
With very little warm-up, this trip plunges you directly into continuous Class IV–V rapids in Clear Creek Canyon.
Brace yourself as you charge through legendary rapids like:
- Beaver Falls
- Tricky Dicky
- Guide Ejector
- Double Knife
- Hell’s Corner
- Corkscrew
- Terminator Holes
This is the most extreme, steep, and technical section of Clear Creek. Trips only run at optimal water levels, and for safety reasons, Colorado Rafting Company reserves the right to refuse participation at our discretion.
Strong swimming ability, excellent physical conditioning, and prior rafting experience are required. For those up to the challenge—this run is unforgettable.n wear board shorts or a swimsuit, or we have splash jackets you can wear to block the sun and wind. We’ll bring the life vests, too; you bring some water and maybe a snack.
When Is the Best Time to Raft Clear Creek?
Clear Creek rafting season typically runs from May through early August, depending on snowpack and runoff.
- May–June: Peak flows, colder water, more intense rapids
- July: Warmer weather, slightly mellower but still exciting
- Early August: Conditions taper off as water levels drop
For the biggest whitewater, aim for late spring to early summer. For warmer temperatures and friendlier flows, mid-summer is ideal. to enjoy some tacos and a beer or a cold ice cream.
Owner-Recommended Restaurants & Breweries Near Idaho Springs
After your rafting trip, Idaho Springs is the perfect place to refuel. Some local favorites include:
- Tommyknocker Brewery – Classic Colorado brews and hearty pub food
- Smokin’ Yard’s BBQ – Award-winning barbecue just minutes away
- Beau Jo’s Pizza – Colorado-style, thick-crust pizza with many sauces
Ask our team for current favorites—we’re always happy to share local tips.
Ready to Raft Clear Creek?
Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly float or an adrenaline-fueled Class V challenge, Colorado Rafting Company has a Clear Creek trip that fits your adventure style.
Book your Clear Creek rafting trip today and experience some of Colorado’s most exciting whitewater—just 30 minutes from Denver.
