RAFTING NEAR IDAHO SPRINGS, COLORADO
This is home. Clear Creek runs right through town — and we've been guiding it since 2007.
Idaho Springs is where it all happens. Our outpost sits right on Clear Creek at 1896 Stanley Rd, and the river runs straight through this historic mining town tucked into the canyon off I-70. You're not driving to the rafting — in Idaho Springs, you're already there.
Clear Creek is one of the most exciting day-trip rivers in Colorado, running beginner-friendly Class II all the way up to serious Class IV. It's 45 minutes from Denver, which makes Idaho Springs the closest real whitewater to the Front Range. Founded in the 1859 gold rush, the town pairs that river access with hot springs, gold mine tours, and some genuinely great mountain-town food.
Whether you're a local, staying in town, or just passing through on I-70, this is the easiest world-class rafting day you'll ever plan. Walk out, gear up, and get on the water.
Find Us
1896 Stanley Rd, Idaho Springs — right on Clear Creek, just off I-70 Exit 240.
I-70 → Exit 240 → Stanley RdGoing Bigger?
Our second location on the Colorado River near Kremmling — the Upper Colorado float and Class V Gore Canyon — is about 1 hr 25 min northwest.
Which Trip Is Right For You
Explore Idaho Springs
Everything you need to build the perfect day around your time on the water.
Indian Hot Springs
Soak in geothermal cave pools right in town — the perfect post-raft recovery. A historic Idaho Springs institution.
Clear Creek Canyon Trails
The canyon trail runs right along the river — stunning views with almost no elevation gain, plus alpine hikes nearby.
Virginia Canyon MTB
Mountain biking trails climbing out of town toward Central City — rugged, historic mining-road riding with big views.
Mt. Blue Sky Scenic Byway
One of the highest paved roads in North America climbs from Idaho Springs to over 14,000 feet — an unforgettable drive.
Raspberry Hot Springs
A more rustic local soaking spot — natural mountain hot springs for those looking to get off the beaten path.
Beau Jo's Pizza
The Idaho Springs institution — mountain-style pizza with honey on the table. You don't skip Beau Jo's.
Westbound & Down
An award-winning brewery and restaurant on Miner Street — excellent craft beer and elevated pub fare. A local favorite.
Smokin' Yards BBQ
Serious slow-smoked barbecue right in town — the perfect hearty meal after a morning on the river.
Tommyknocker Brewery
A longtime Idaho Springs brewpub on Miner Street — house-brewed beer and a casual, family-friendly menu.
Clear Creek Cidery
Locally made hard cider and a relaxed tasting room — a great spot to wind down with something different.
Yards Tap House
Westbound & Down's taproom often hosts live music and events — cold beer and a lively atmosphere on Miner Street.
Gold Pan Tavern
A classic Idaho Springs watering hole — historic, no-frills, and a reliable spot for a local beer and good company.
Vintage Moose
A downtown bar with a friendly local crowd — drinks, games, and occasional live music in the heart of town.
Argo Mill & Tunnel
Tour a real gold mine and mill perched above town — one of Idaho Springs' signature attractions, great for all ages.
Phoenix Gold Mine
A working family-owned mine offering hands-on tours — pan for gold and go underground with a real miner.
Underhill Museum
A preserved historic home and office documenting Idaho Springs' mining and surveying history. A local heritage gem.
Heritage Museum
The Idaho Springs Historical Society's collection tells the story of the 1859 gold rush town. Free and worth a stop.
Indian Hot Springs Resort
Stay where you soak — historic lodging attached to the famous hot springs, right in the heart of Idaho Springs.
Argo Inn & Suites
Comfortable, convenient lodging right in town — an easy base for a rafting weekend on Clear Creek.
Columbine Inn
A reliable, well-located motel in Idaho Springs — clean, friendly, and steps from Miner Street dining.
Idaho Springs RV Resort
Creekside RV sites right in town — a great option for road-trippers and families traveling with their own setup.
H&H Motor Lodge
A no-frills, affordable motel — a practical, budget-friendly choice for a night before or after your trip.
Make a Day of It
Your Idaho Springs day, start to finish — with Clear Creek as the centerpiece.
Hit the Water
Meet us at the outpost on Stanley Rd and run Clear Creek through the canyon. Book your trip →
Lunch on Miner Street
Beau Jo's mountain pizza or a fresh pint and burger at Westbound & Down — both walkable downtown.
Gold Mine or Soak
Tour the Argo Mill or pan for gold at the Phoenix Mine — or just soak at Indian Hot Springs.
Wind Down
Dinner and a local beer at Tommyknocker or a cider flight at Clear Creek Cidery to cap the day.
How Far Is the River?
Click any city to see how far it is from our two locations. Most of Colorado is closer than you think.