Rafting

Steamboat Springs rafting is a popular summer activity for locals and visitors alike. There are convenient launch points for rafting at four, close by rivers: the Yampa, Elk, Colorado and Eagle.

Moving Mountains can help you choose the right river trip and outfitter to fit your group needs based on ages, experience, schedule, and adventure.

Yampa River

Raft right through downtown Steamboat Springs! The closest and least expensive raft trip you can take is the "Town Run" and is only available in spring and early summer depending on river flows. This section is considered to be a beginner level river with class II and III rapids.

Juniper Canyon is also considered beginner and is a full-day raft trip 55 miles from Steamboat Springs.

Cross Mountain Canyon is for those with rafting experience and in good physical shape. It is located 2 hours west of Steamboat Springs and features class IV and V rapids.

Elk River

The Elk is the second closest Steamboat Springs rafting adventure. The river put-in is just 20 minutes away and considered to be intermediate with class III and IV rapids. Like the Yampa's Town Run, the season is short and dependant on river flows.

Colorado River

Because water is released through a dam, the Colorado flows steadily throughout the summer and is available for rafting longer than the Yampa or the Elk. One of the more popular sections for beginner rafters is about an hour from Steamboat. The class I to III rapids make it an activity most will enjoy regardless of age or experience.

Eagle River

The Eagle River, also a tributary of the Colorado River, flows from the White River National Forest in a westernly direction. Coming from Steamboat the start of a raft trip is approximately one and a half hours from Steamboat Springs and considered an intermediate river with class III and IV rapids.