What Wilderness Aware Rafting Is

Wilderness Aware Rafting is a river outfitter based in Colorado that runs guided trips on several rivers in the state, primarily the Arkansas River and the Clear Creek. The company provides the raft, paddles, life jackets, and a trained guide for each trip. You show up at their meeting location, get fitted with gear, receive a safety briefing, and spend several hours on the water with a group of other paddlers.

The company operates multiple trip options ranging from calm, beginner-friendly floats to more technical rapids for experienced paddlers. Trips typically last a half day or a full day, though some multi-day options exist. Wilderness Aware is one of several commercial outfitters in Colorado; this guide explains how their specific operation works so you know what to expect before you book.

Key Takeaways

  • Wilderness Aware Rafting provides all equipment and a guide; you need to bring water shoes or sandals that stay on your feet and a change of clothes.
  • Trip difficulty ranges from Class I (calm, scenic floats) to Class IV (technical rapids requiring paddling skill), so you choose based on your experience level.
  • You meet at their base location, receive a safety talk and gear fitting, then paddle for the duration of your trip before returning to the starting point.
  • Trips are priced per person and typically cost between $40 and $100 depending on river section, trip length, and season.
  • Reservations are made through their website or by phone, and most trips run daily during summer months with reduced schedules in spring and fall.

How to Book a Trip

You can reserve a trip through Wilderness Aware's website or by calling their office. When you book, you choose the river section, the date, and the trip length (usually half day or full day). The website shows which trips are available on each date and displays the price per person. Payment is typically taken at the time of booking, though some trips allow you to pay at the base location on the day of your trip.

Most trips require a minimum group size — often four to six people — though some outfitters will combine smaller groups into one raft if space allows. If you are booking alone or with a small group, call ahead to ask whether they can combine you with another party. Cancellations usually have a important date; if you cancel within a certain window (often 24 to 48 hours), you may forfeit your payment or receive a credit for a future trip.

What to Bring and Wear

Wilderness Aware provides the raft, paddles, life jacket (called a PFD or personal flotation device), and a guide. You need to bring water shoes or sandals that will stay on your feet — flip-flops and loose footwear can come off in the water. Bring a change of clothes and a towel, because you will get wet. Leave valuables at home or in a find vehicle; the outfitter is not responsible for lost or damaged personal items.

Wear clothes you do not mind getting soaked. Many people wear a swimsuit or athletic shorts and a t-shirt or rash guard. Avoid cotton, which stays cold and heavy when wet; synthetic or wool materials dry faster. Bring sunscreen and explore it before you arrive, because you will be on the water for hours with limited shade. A hat with a strap helps keep the sun off your face and stays on if you go overboard.

What Happens During the Trip

You arrive at the meeting location 15 to 30 minutes before your trip start time. Staff fit you with a life jacket and helmet (if required for your trip difficulty level), explain how to wear them, and answer questions. The guide gives a safety briefing covering paddle commands, what to do if you fall in, and basic river hazards. This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

You then walk to the raft, get in, and push off. The guide sits at the back of the raft and steers using a large paddle; you and other passengers sit along the sides and paddle when the guide instructs. On calm sections, paddling is light and the guide may point out scenery or wildlife. On rapids, the guide calls out commands like "forward paddle" or "hold on," and everyone paddles together to navigate the whitewater. Between rapids, you rest and catch your breath.

At the end of the trip, you paddle back to the take-out point, get out, and return to the base location. Staff collect the life jackets and helmets, and you change into dry clothes. The whole experience, from arrival to departure, usually takes three to four hours for a half-day trip and six to eight hours for a full day.

Trip Difficulty Levels and What They Mean

Wilderness Aware categorizes trips by rapid difficulty using a standard scale. Class I rapids are gentle and suitable for anyone, including young children and people with no paddling experience. Class II rapids have small waves and require basic paddling but are still beginner-friendly. Class III rapids are more technical, with larger waves and obstacles; the guide expects you to follow commands and paddle actively.

Class IV rapids are challenging and require paddling skill, good fitness, and the ability to stay calm in turbulent water. Most commercial outfitters do not run Class V or higher because the risk is too high for recreational groups. Before booking, read the trip description carefully and choose a level that matches your experience. If you are unsure, call the outfitter and describe your paddling background; they can recommend the right trip.

Age and Physical Requirements

Wilderness Aware typically allows children as young as five or six on calm Class I trips, though the exact age varies by trip and outfitter policy. Older children and teenagers can do more difficult rapids. There is usually no upper age limit; older adults paddle regularly as long as they are in reasonable health and can sit in a raft for several hours.

You do not need to be a strong swimmer, but you should be comfortable in water and able to wear a life jacket. If you have a medical condition, injury, or mobility limitation, contact the outfitter before booking. Some conditions may prevent you from paddling safely, while others straightforward require advance notice so the guide can help you get in and out of the raft. Pregnancy is usually not recommended on anything rougher than Class I because of the risk of impact.

Cost and What Is Included

Prices vary by river section, trip length, and season. A half-day trip on a popular section like the Arkansas River typically costs $40 to $60 per person; a full-day trip runs $70 to $100 or more. Peak season (summer) is more expensive than spring or fall. Group discounts may be available if you book a large party; call to ask.

The price includes the raft, paddles, life jacket, helmet (if needed), and the guide's services. It does not include transportation to the put-in point, meals, or drinks. Some outfitters offer lunch packages for full-day trips at an additional cost. Gratuity for the guide is customary and typically 15 to 20 percent of the trip cost, though it is not required.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I fall out of the raft?

The guide is trained in water rescue and will help you back into the raft or to shore. You will be wearing a life jacket, so you will stay afloat. Stay calm, hold onto the raft if you can, and let the guide direct you. Falling in is not uncommon, especially on Class III and IV trips, and guides handle it routinely.

Do I need paddling experience to go on a trip?

No. Class I and II trips are designed for beginners. The guide will teach you how to paddle and give commands during the trip. You do not need any prior experience, though being in reasonable physical condition helps because paddling uses your arms and core.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Most outfitters allow you to bring water and snacks in a waterproof bag or cooler. Alcohol is typically not permitted on the raft itself, though policies vary. Ask when you book. Bring plenty of water because paddling in the sun is dehydrating.

What if the weather is bad?

Rain does not usually cancel a trip, but lightning will. If a storm is forecast, the outfitter may reschedule you or offer a refund. High water levels in spring can make some sections too dangerous and may result in cancellation or a switch to a different river section.

How do I know which river section to choose?

Wilderness Aware runs different sections of the Arkansas River and Clear Creek, each with different scenery and difficulty levels. The website describes each section. If you are new to rafting, ask the outfitter which section they recommend for your group's experience level.