ARKANSAS RIVER RAFTING
Four Ways To
Raft The Arkansas
Mellow family water. Splashy fun. Classic Class III. Continuous Class IV. Four distinct sections of the Arkansas River mean there is a trip for almost every kind of crew. Start with your ages and how much excitement you want, then choose your river section.
Browns Canyon
Classic Colorado whitewater through Browns Canyon National Monument. Splashy rapids, beautiful canyon scenery, and the best all-around rafting trip for most groups.
Salida Valley
Class I-II · Ages 5+ · From $95
Mellow rafting, mountain scenery, and the best choice for younger kids.
Bear Creek
Class II-III · Ages 6+ · From $105
Splashy family whitewater and a great step up from a scenic float.
The Numbers
Class IV · Ages 16+ · From $170
Continuous advanced whitewater for adventurous guests ready for a challenge.
Smaller Trips.
Better River Days.
We keep our trips intentionally small. That means more personal attention, experienced guides, less waiting around, and more time actually enjoying the Arkansas River.
Smaller Trips
We limit trip sizes so your rafting day feels personal. Less standing around, less crowding, and more time on the river.
Family Run
You are booking with the people who actually run the company and spend their summers on the river.
More Personal
Families, first-timers, groups, and even dogs on select trips. We work with your crew to create the right kind of river day.
No Hidden Fees
The trip price you see is the price you pay. Essential river gear is included, with no surprise equipment rentals, booking fees, or added taxes at checkout.
Don’t Just Take Our Word For It
Hear From Our Guests
Families, first-time rafters, experienced paddlers, and groups come back to Monumental because the trips feel personal and the river days are memorable.
Stay Where You Raft
Camp At Chalk Creek
Monumental Expeditions is based right inside Chalk Creek Campground in Nathrop. Stay in a tent site, RV site, or cabin and your rafting day starts just steps from camp.
You are also centrally located for hot springs, hiking, fishing, Buena Vista, Salida, and the rest of the Arkansas River Valley.
Not Sure Which Trip?
We’ll Help You Pick
Answer four quick questions and we’ll recommend the Arkansas River trip that best fits your group.
Tap to find your perfect rafting trip in about 30 seconds
Find Your Perfect Rafting Trip
Answer 4 quick questions. We’ll recommend the best stretch of river for your group.
Still unsure? Call or text us and we’ll help match your group with the right trip.
Common Questions
Quick answers about rafting the Arkansas River with Monumental.
Which trip is best for my family?
Salida Valley is our mellowest trip for ages 5+. Bear Creek starts at age 6 and adds more splash. Browns Canyon starts at age 7 and is our most popular classic whitewater trip.
Do we need rafting experience?
No experience is required for Salida Valley, Bear Creek, or Browns Canyon. Your guide will teach you what you need to know before getting on the river.
What gear is included?
PFDs, paddles, helmets, wetsuits, splash jackets, river booties, and sunglass retainers are included when appropriate.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are welcome on select Class II and III trips with advance approval. Call us before booking so we can make sure the trip and conditions are appropriate.
Where are you located?
Monumental Expeditions is based inside Chalk Creek Campground in Nathrop, Colorado, between Buena Vista and Salida.
What happens if the weather looks bad?
Rafting trips run rain or shine. Colorado afternoon showers are common, so morning trips are often a great choice.
Let’s Go Rafting
Your Arkansas River Adventure Starts Here
Pick your trip, bring your crew, and we’ll take care of the rest. Small groups, experienced guides, all the gear you need, and no surprise fees.
