RAFTING NEAR VAIL, COLORADO
45 minutes to the Colorado River — the best whitewater in the state is closer than the next ski run.
Vail gets all the attention in winter, but summer here is exceptional — and most visitors never realize they're sitting 45 minutes from world-class whitewater. The Colorado River near Kremmling is the closest raft-able water to Vail, and it's a serious river. Gore Canyon is one of the most technically demanding commercial runs in the country. The Upper Colorado float is a mellow, wildlife-rich alternative for families.
If you want more options, Clear Creek in Idaho Springs is just 25 minutes further east on I-70. That gives you beginner through Class IV options on the same trip, all within an hour of Vail Village.
Vail draws a crowd that isn't afraid of adventure — skiers, hikers, mountain bikers. The river is a natural fit. Raft in the morning and be back on the mountain by afternoon.
Also Nearby
Clear Creek in Idaho Springs — 1 hr east on I-70. Class II–IV, three difficulty levels, perfect if you want the canyon whitewater experience.
Which Trip Is Right For You
Explore Vail
Everything you need to build the perfect day around your time on the water.
Vail Mountain Biking
World-class lift-accessed mountain biking on Vail Mountain — over 80 miles of trails from green to black diamond.
Vail Pass Bike Path
A spectacular paved trail over Vail Pass — one of Colorado's most scenic bike rides with shuttle service available.
Betty Ford Alpine Gardens
The highest public botanical garden in North America — free to visit and stunning in full summer bloom.
Hiking & Trail Running
Hundreds of miles of trails from easy valley walks to above-treeline ridge hikes. Gondola access included for resort guests.
Fly Fishing
The Eagle River and nearby Gore Creek are classic Colorado fly fishing water — guided trips available through the resort.
Sweet Basil
Vail's most celebrated restaurant — inventive American cuisine with an outstanding wine program. A true Vail institution.
The George
A lively bar and restaurant in Vail Village — great burgers, craft cocktails, and a buzzing atmosphere day and night.
Elway's
John Elway's upscale steakhouse in the Ritz Carlton — prime cuts, serious wine, and a refined mountain atmosphere.
Matsuhisa
Chef Nobu Matsuhisa's celebrated Japanese-Peruvian sushi house in Vail Village — one of the valley's premier dining experiences.
Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater
Vail's premier outdoor concert venue — summer performances from classical to rock in one of Colorado's most beautiful natural settings.
Vail Music Festival
An acclaimed classical music festival each summer — world-class performances in an intimate mountain village setting.
Breckenridge Music Festival
Just over the pass — Breckenridge's beloved outdoor music festival hosts everything from orchestral to bluegrass all summer.
Vail Arts Festival
A juried fine arts festival each summer — over 100 national artists exhibiting in Vail Village over a long summer weekend.
Breckenridge Arts District
A thriving creative hub 30 minutes east — galleries, studios, and rotating exhibitions in Breckenridge's historic district.
Colorado Ski & Snowboard Museum
A free museum in Vail Village celebrating Colorado's skiing heritage — great rainy-day stop and surprisingly fascinating.
The Ritz-Carlton Club, Vail
Five-star luxury in Lionshead Village — steps from the gondola, with residential-style suites and impeccable service.
The Sebastian
A boutique luxury hotel in the heart of Vail Village — stylish rooms, rooftop pool, and impeccable service.
Gravity Haus
An adventure-focused hotel and members club — the perfect base for a trip that includes rafting, biking, and hiking.
Antlers at Vail
Family-friendly condo-style accommodations right on Gore Creek — spacious units, great value for groups and families.
Sitzmark Lodge
A charming, affordable Vail Village classic — cozy rooms, unbeatable location, and the kind of mountain character you can't manufacture.
Make a Day of It
Your Vail day, start to finish — with a river run as the centerpiece.
Lunch in Vail Village
Back in Vail for lunch at Sweet Basil or The George — both right in the village.
Ride the Mountain
Take the gondola up and hit the mountain bike trails, or cruise the Vail Pass Bike Path.
Wind Down
Dinner at Sweet Basil, then catch a show at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater if one's running.
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.