Rafting

Arkansas River. Adrenaline-charging rapids range from Class II to Class V on Colorado's Arkansas River, one of the most commercially rafted and challenging rivers in the world. Among the most fabled stretches of the Arkansas are the Narrows, the Numbers, and Browns Canyon, but extreme paddlers tend to jump on trips through the Royal Gorge, which the river has carved out over eons. Plan your trip for the early summer snowmelt for the biggest thrills. Buena Vista, Colorado.

Tours and Outfitters

River Runners. This long-respected outfitter offers rafting trips on the Arkansas River, including overnight trips, and to Browns Canyon or Bighorn Sheep Canyon, which offer family-friendly trips that are ranked beginner and intermediate. 24070 County Rd. 301, Buena Vista, Colorado, 81211. 800/723–8987; www.whitewater.net.