Rafting

Colorado River. When the ski season is over and Colorado's "white gold" starts to melt, many ski instructors swap their sticks for paddles and hit the mighty Colorado River for the spring and summer rafting seasons. Stomach-churning holes, chutes, and waves beckon adrenaline junkies, while calmer souls can revel in the shade of Glenwood Canyon's towering walls. Glenwood Springs, Colorado.

Outfitters

Blue Sky Adventures. At this outfitter, which shares a shop with Canyon Bikes, you can book a "Pedals & Paddles" package that includes a half-day raft trip with Blue Sky Adventures, followed by a bike rental. 152 W. 6th St., Glenwood Springs, Colorado, 81601. 970/945–6605; 877/945–6605; www.blueskyadventure.com.

Defiance Rafting Company. In addition to half- and full-day trips on the Colorado River, the company offers the "4 O'Clock Special," a late afternoon trip, and a "Raft & Zip Trip" that includes a zipline over the river. 1308 County Rd. 129, Glenwood Springs, Colorado, 81601. 970/404–3022; www.raftdefiance.com.

Whitewater Rafting, LLC. The company's tours include the "Double Extreme Shoshone," where you run the area's most hair-raising rapids in a 12-foot, paddle-only raft—twice. 2000 Devereux Rd., Glenwood Springs, Colorado, 81601. 970/945–8477; 800/993–7238; www.coloradowhitewaterrafting.com.