‍ ‍FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Got Questions? We have Answers.

If it’s your first time on the river, you may have a question or two. Through years of experience, our staff has compiled a list of frequently asked questions and concerns from previous guests. 

For up-to-date information on rafting minimum ages, please contact us at 303-845-7544 or info@idahospringsraftingcompany. We look forward to seeing you on the river!

  • Standard Cancelation Policy

    • Tours canceled 10 days prior to the start date will receive a refund less $15/person cancellation fee.

    • Groups of 12 or more require a 30 day notice.
      Cancellations inside the 10 day period or 30 days for groups are not eligible for a refund

    • No shows or late arrivals do not qualify for refunds

     

    Optional Cancellation Insurance Policy

    • Cancellations made 24 hours before the day of your tour date are eligible for a 100% refund less the cancellation insurance fee

    • Late arrivals are scheduled for the next available trip

    • No shows are not eligible for refunds

  • It’s easy! Either call us a303-123-4567 between 7am and 7pm MST or make a reservation online through our website. Listing and availability are online and if you don’t see what you are looking for custom trips can be booked over the phone.

  • For families and first-time rafters, choose Middle Clear Creek or the Upper Colorado for fun, approachable whitewater. Ready for more excitement? Upper Clear Creek (Class III–IV, ages 14+) delivers 17 thrilling rapids near Denver. Looking for full adrenaline? Lower Clear Creek (Class IV–V, ages 16+) offers fast, technical, advanced whitewater for strong, confident paddlers.

  • Normally the peak runoff is reached by mid-June. Some rapids become easier at high flows and others become more difficult. Some rapids may require portaging at certain levels. May and early June have cooler air temperatures but exhilarating whitewater. The rest of the season is usually warm and sunny with occasional late afternoon showers.

  • Before going on any river trip with Idaho Springs Rafting Company, each guest over 18 years old must read, understand and sign our Liability Waiver. Parents or legal guardians must sign for any children under 18 years old. You will receive a waiver in your confirmation email after you have finalized your booking. 

  • Every person on our trips will be issued a life jacket (personal flotation device) which is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard and designed specifically for whitewater rafting. We can accommodate up to a size 52 inch chest size. Non-swimmers are allowed to participate on the beginner whitewater rafting tours. If you are seriously overweight and can not perform a self-rescue by swimming to shore in the event you are out of the raft, you should consider not rafting. If a guide can not pull in an obese guest who swims, your safety may be jeopardized. You should take an active part in your own rescue. A detailed safety orientation is given before each trip. Swimming ability is required on our more advanced trips. The ability to swim may make you more comfortable in water if you happen to be out of the raft.

  • Well-trained, personable guides, all necessary river and safety equipment, splash jackets, wetsuit and booties, and shuttles are all included in the trip cost. Full-day and multi-day trips include meals and beverages. Camping gear is available for rent.

  • Statistics prove that rafting is safer than golf or skiing, however, participating in an outdoor adventure does have inherent risks and hazards. We take every possible precaution throughout our operation to provide safe trips. You must take responsibility for following our instructions and guidelines. We reserve the right to consider potential participants physically unfit for this activity.

  • We have taken guests with many different medical conditions and physical disabilities on raft trips. It is mandatory that these conditions are disclosed before your reservation is confirmed. A physician’s written approval may be necessary for certain conditions. Your guide and trip leader must also be made aware of your situation

  • Sure! Be sure and do so when you first make your reservation. We will do our best to honor your request, however, if they are requested by others, working another section of the river or have the day off, it may not be possible.

WHITEWATER CLASSIFICATION GUIDE

Class I – Easy
Calm, gently moving water with small ripples and minimal obstacles. Ideal for a relaxed float and a great introduction to river travel.

Class II – Beginner
Mild rapids with clear, open channels. Some maneuvering and basic paddle control are required to navigate around rocks and rolling waves.

Class III – Intermediate
More active whitewater with irregular waves, stronger currents, and narrower passages. Requires coordinated paddling and confident boat control.

Class IV – Advanced
Powerful, technical rapids with large waves, fast-moving current, and precise maneuvering through tighter channels. Strong paddling and quick response are essential.

Class V – Expert
Long, intense, and highly technical rapids featuring steep drops, complex routes, and significant waves. Designed for experienced rafters seeking a serious whitewater challenge.