Whitewater Rafting
In southern Colorado's serene Sangre de Cristo mountains, the whitewater rafting season begins in May and extends into September. Heavy melting snowpack in the mountains feeds the Arkansas River, providing great summer seasons on the river.
The Arkansas River offers so much variety that it has become one of the most popular rivers in the nation. Rafting trips on the Arkansas may be mild or wild. Rapids vary from easy Class 1 float trips, to the extreme challenges of Class IV and V whitewater. Many of the raft trips go through the Royal Gorge where the water plunges 65 feet per mile through one of Colorado's most dramatic gorges.
Local rafting companies offer half-day, full day and overnight rafting trips with expert guides. Rafting may be combined with horseback pack trips for weekend getaways or 5 day trips. Some local outfitters also combine rafting with rails, integrating the thrill of rafting with the spectacular train ride through the Royal Gorge and Bighorn Sheep Canyon.
Local whitewater rafting companies are as close as a 15 minute drive from the Ranch. If you prefer to lead your own adventures on the Arkansas, numerous sites provide for ample parking and unloading of rafts or kayaks. Additionally, sites are available along the river for overnight tent camping or RV parking.
Just another day in the life at Maytag Mountain Ranch.
