Some advise needed...we´ll be traveling through SW Colorado and Utah for 2 weeks from next sunday. We´ll arrive from Frankfurt/Germany in DEN. Is it worth going on a rafting trip at this time of year? Preferable in the Breckenridge/Buena Vista Area, but all tips are welcome. I´m asking because i´m not sure if the rivers are good for rafting AFTER summer...? Apologies in advance if this questions is kind of silly....but we´ve never been in that area before...

Regards from Hamburg

Usually, the rafting has ended by September. The rivers rely on snow melt, and are running too low in the fall. In addition, it could be chilly for a raft trip, and many of the outfitters close down at the end of the summer. We had friends who rafted the Royal Gorge a couple of weeks ago, but I wouldn't count on it being an option when you are there. The raft turned over and they all fell in. Some of the outfitters have websites - you could contact them and see. Focus on those in the Buena Vista area - not in Breckenridge. Buena Vista is right on the Arkansas river - near the best spots. Its a long way from Breck to good rafting. Alternatively, you might enjoy a jeep trip or ATV excursion into the high country at that time of year. The Aspens will be turning, the weather crisp and the sky blue. It would be a great day. Again, check the web for outfitters in the Salida area (near Buena Vista), or around Ouray or Telluride.

It has been a very dry summer here in SW CO and the water levels are at their lowest point of the year. I seriously doubt there will be much in the way of rafting when you are here. You can always call and ask but I am thinking if there is any water, it will be nothing more than a float [flat] and perhaps a lot of rocks to avoid.

Sorry,
Deb

Thanks for your answers. This is actually what i was expecting...Deb, i planed quiete a few routes on my trip based on your posts. Unfortunately the Inn in Moab is booked at this time....

It is the busiest time of year here but for good reason - it is simply beautiful! Have a wonderful time whatever you do!

Deb

A third option you've actually chosen instead of -- or in addition to -- YNP/GNP and east coast?

[2 year old post, JJ. ]

Thanks, Debit-- sorry, I usually pick up on that -- see posts on "do you enjoy aging?"