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Whitewater Rafting, Kayaking & Paddle Boarding Boulder

Boulder’s scenic waterways provide the perfect warm-weather cool-down for those seeking a smile-inducing tubing ride or a fun kayaking practice session. Rivers beyond Boulder hold even more experiences for thrilling whitewater adventures.

Help protect Boulder's natural beauty by remembering these Leave No Trace principles.

Boulder Creek

Boulder Creek was named one of the 10 best lazy rivers for tubing in the U.S. by Men’s Journal. It is a popular tubing spot during the summer months. A stretch of Boulder Creek near Eben G. Fine Park is a popular spot for kayakers to hone their paddling skills. Kayak rentals are available at Whitewater Tubing & RecreationAlpine Base & Edge and Crystal Ski Shop. Of course, some folks prefer to simply stay onshore and cool off by wading in.

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Paddle Safe

Before you go, make sure to check the water levels to see if they are runnable on the American Whitewater website. Waterways are powerful and always changing. Always practice extreme caution whenever you are dealing with whitewater.

Boulder Reservoir

For a gentler experience, the beautiful Boulder Reservoir also rents small boats such as kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and canoes.

Photo by Abbie Youngs

Stand Up Paddle Boarding on Boulder Reservoir

Boulder Hotel and Rafting Packages

Colorado Wilderness Rides and Guides has partnered with a handful of hotels to provide exhilarating white water rafting experiences in nearby Idaho Springs along with discounted hotel stays in Boulder. Learn more and book your trip here.

Whitewater River Rafting Beyond Boulder

If you’re looking for whitewater rafting adventures on nearby Colorado rivers (Clear Creek and the Cache La Poudre are two popular choices), a number of guides, outfitters and adventure companies in Boulder are listed below and can help plan and guide your trip. You should plan to spend a full day enjoying a whitewater rafting outing from Boulder. 

Looking for Tubing Information?

Read all about tubing the Boulder Creek.