CLEAR CREEK INTERMEDIATE RAFTING TRIP
Our most booked trip — bigger rapids, bigger thrills, and that rush you'll be talking about all week.
About This Trip
The Clear Creek Intermediate trip is our single most popular run — and for good reason. It hits that sweet spot between accessible and genuinely exciting, making it perfect for first-timers looking for a real adventure and repeat rafters who want more than a float.
Class III rapids mean you'll be paddling hard, getting splashed, and earning every high-five at the takeout. The canyon scenery is stunning, the water is fast, and our guides know every rock, eddy, and wave on this run.
Whether you're coming with friends, on a date, or just trying something new — this is the trip that keeps people coming back to the river year after year.
What's Included
- Certified expert guide
- Wetsuit & splash jacket
- Helmet & personal flotation device
- Paddle & all rafting equipment
- Pre-trip safety briefing
- Shuttle from put-in to take-out
- Minimum age: 13 years old
- No prior experience required — most first-time adults do great
- Must be comfortable in water
- Wear clothes you don't mind getting soaked
- Secure footwear required. No flip flops or Crocs
- Neoprene booties available to rent
- Arrive 15–20 minutes before your trip
When you arrive at our Idaho Springs outpost, our guides fit you with all your gear and run a full safety briefing — paddle commands, how to hold your paddle, and what to do if you go for a swim.
Despite the "Intermediate" name, most first-time adults do great on this run — the guides read every rapid and handle the technical lines. The trip runs about 3 hours through fast, continuous Class III–IV water and gorgeous canyon scenery. Photos are available afterward.
Continuous Class III–IV action — technical enough to keep your heart pumping the whole way.
Here's the stretch of Clear Creek we paddle on this trip — every rapid on the map.
💧 Higher water is in the Dumont section, and lower water is in the lower canyon.
Our Most Popular Run
"Hands down one of the best adventures we've ever had! Our guide Colin was awesome — super friendly, funny, and knew exactly how to make everyone feel comfortable. The scenery was unreal. 10/10 would go again."
"Our experience at Liquid Descent was fantastic! Our guides Levi, Christian, and Gino were all excellent — knowledgeable, skilled, personable, and tons of fun. Our entire party would highly recommend."
"Our guide, Kenny, was delightful, entertaining, and full of fascinating facts about the river and the history. A fantastic day on the water."
Intermediate Rafting FAQ
Do I need rafting experience?
No. Despite the "Intermediate" name, most first-time adults do great on this run. Your guide coaches you through paddle commands and handles the technical lines.
What's the minimum age?
13 years old. It's our most popular run for adults, teens, and active groups.
How hard is it? Is it scary?
It's Class III–IV — fast, splashy, and genuinely exciting, but very doable for anyone 13+ in average shape. It's the sweet spot between a mellow float and a full-on expert run.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
You should be comfortable in the water. Everyone wears a helmet and life jacket, and your guide briefs you on exactly what to do if you fall in. We do everything we can to maximize safety.
What should I wear and bring?
A swimsuit and secure footwear (no flip-flops or Crocs). We provide wetsuits, splash jackets, helmets, and PFDs. Bring a towel and dry clothes for after.
How far is it from Denver?
About 40 minutes west on I-70 to our Idaho Springs outpost.