ASTROExperiences

Whitewater Rafting · Blue River, CO Area

Performance Tours Rafting

Provides half-day whitewater rafting adventures on the Blue River, with trips departing from Frisco, CO.

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Made for

  • Rafting trips are offered for every skill and age level.
  • Offices in Breckenridge, Buena Vista, Cañon City and Frisco support half day and full day trips for all ages.
  • Arkansas River trips run from Buena Vista and Royal Gorge, and Blue River trips from the Frisco office.
  • Private raft trips are available by calling the office.
  • Boat styles include paddle boats, oar boats where the guide navigates, and paddle assist.
  • The company was established in 1986 by owners Kevin and Mary Jo Foley.
  • All rafting tours include gear rentals and a professional raft guide.

The packages

Raft & Zipline

Pairs an Arkansas River whitewater trip with a zipline adventure over Colorado landscapes.

Raft & Rail

Combines a whitewater rafting experience with a scenic train ride through the Royal Gorge.

Saddle & Paddle

Pairs a horseback ride on scenic trails with an afternoon of whitewater rafting.

Browns Canyon

Class III–IV trip departing from the Buena Vista office, suited to families and first-time rafters.

The Numbers

A Class IV–V run with fast, technical rapids for experienced paddlers, also leaving from Buena Vista.

Bear Creek Mild & Scenic

A relaxing float with gentle rapids, suited to young kids, leaving from Buena Vista.

Bighorn Sheep Canyon

Class III moderate whitewater with canyon views for families or groups, departing from the Cañon City office.

Royal Gorge

Class IV+ ride through steep canyon walls and beneath a suspension bridge, departing from Cañon City.

The Blue River Half-Day

Class III whitewater with alpine scenery, suited to first-timers and families, departing from the Frisco area.

How it works

  1. When should I arrive before my trip departure

    Guests should check in at least 45 minutes before departure so gear fitting is complete.

  2. Where do we meet for our trip

    Meeting spots differ by trip, and detailed directions arrive in the confirmation email.

Good to know

  • The Breckenridge office handles sales only.
  • Royal Gorge recommends age 16, dropping to 14 when flow rates are lower.
  • Browns Canyon recommends a minimum of 7 years old and 50 lbs, with exceptions as water levels subside.
  • Each guest receives a helmet, a properly fitted life jacket and a paddle.
  • Non-swimmers are permitted on several trips, and life jackets are mandatory.
  • Closed-toe or strapped footwear is required; flip-flops, Crocs and loose shoes are not permitted.
  • Guests are advised to wear quick-drying clothing and protective footgear that can get wet.
  • A full refund applies to cancellations made more than 72 hours ahead.
  • Cancellations inside 72 hours without cancellation coverage are non-refundable.
  • If the company cancels for unsafe weather or low flows, guests may reschedule or take a full refund.
  • Trips run daily all season whatever the weather, so rain alone does not cause cancellations.
  • Pet dogs are not allowed on the river with a shared reservation.
  • Service dog owners must supply paperwork showing it is a service dog.
  • Guests with limited mobility should call, and the staff accommodate based on trip safety requirements.
  • Full day trips include a buffet-style lunch with a beverage.
  • Allergies and food restrictions can be handled by calling the office ahead.
  • Half-day trips take roughly 4 hours in total, with about 2 hours on the river.
  • Changing rooms are located at the full-service offices in Buena Vista, Royal Gorge and Frisco.
  • Tipping guides is optional but appreciated.
  • Guides must hold CPR and first aid certification.
  • The rafting season typically spans mid-May to early September, depending on water conditions.
  • Peak runoff arrives from late May through June, then levels gradually drop over the summer.
  • Blue River availability is snowpack dependent, typically late May to early July.

Details from performancetours.com

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