Top things to do in Idaho Springs, Colorado

Beginner Whitewater Rafting on Historic Clear Creek in Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs , Colorado

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (284 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 70.99

Duration: 3 hours (approx.)

Middle Clear Creek is one of the greatest beginner rafting runs in the nation. With numerous rapids and historical significance, it is hard to deny the value. Although Clear Creek holds more rapids than most any other run in the US, the rapids of our Middle section are straight-forward and perfect for families with children or anyone else looking for something a bit easier. Rafters will also catch glimpses of Colorado's rich gold mining history and maybe even a miner or two as they splash down this unique stretch of whitewater.

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Clear Creek Intermediate Whitewater Rafting near Denver in Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs , Colorado

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (234 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 87.99

Duration: 3 hours (approx.)

Clear Creek Canyon is unique in the quantity and quality of its rapids. It has more rapids than nearly any other commercially run stretch of whitewater in the nation. It is also free-flowing, meaning that the water levels change throughout the season, offering a variety of experiences. In addition to world-class rafting, it is also the home of the 1859 Gold Rush. Gold is still found in the creek by intrepid miners using pans and dredges. Guests will pass many sites of historical significance related to the Gold Rush while rafting on Clear Creek. Clear Creek is also conveniently located nearby Denver and other surrounding resorts, making it the perfect day-trip excursion.

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Intermediate Clear Creek Blast! Class III-IV Rapids  in Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs , Colorado

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (145 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 114.50

Duration: 2 hours (approx.)

We offer an experience that is one of a kind. We have beautiful facilities, fantastic gear and amazing guides! From the minute you arrive to the outpost you'll be greeted with a smile by our front desk staff. After checking in, you'll have the opportunity to browse retail, see photos and make yourself comfortable prior to your gear-up speech. Every detail, from the music to the orientation has been crafted with your experience in mind. We care deeply about your river experience and do everything possible to make sure your river trip with us is the highlight of your summer!

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Raft the Beginner stretch on Clear Creek! in Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs , Colorado

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (124 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 92.00

Duration: 3 hours (approx.)

Liquid Descent's Beginner Rafting Trip provides a unique experience during which participants will get their share of light adrenaline, beautiful river scenery, and a glimpse into the history of Idaho Spring's mining history.

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Upper Clear Creek Canyon (Intermediate) in Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs , Colorado

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (114 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 99.00

Duration: 2 hours (approx.)

Consistent rapids will keep your attention the entire trip. After a fun warm-up section of unnamed class III rapids, you will drop into Nomad rapid then immediately finding yourself in Fall River rapid. More continuous class III rapids lead you to the 1/4 mile long Phoenix rapid followed immediately by Deliverance hoping you stay in the boat. This section of Clear Creek offers plenty of opportunities for whitewater surfing and then the final rapid, Outer Limits, followed by a fun scenic section through the town of Idaho Springs. This trip is for people looking for excitement and adventure and will keep your attention the entire time.

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Middle Clear Creek Canyon (Beginner) in Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs , Colorado

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (108 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 89.00

Duration: 2 hours (approx.)

Experience the best family rafting adventure near Denver on this action‑packed Clear Creek trip! Perfect for beginners and thrill‑seekers alike, this exciting run features 10 lively Class III rapids, including guest favorites like Castle Falls, Mountain Lion, and Mr. Twister. With almost no flat water, you’ll stay engaged from start to finish—actively paddling through waves, splashes, and continuous fun. Your journey flows through the historic mining town of Idaho Springs, known as “Where it All Began.” Along the way, you’ll pass iconic Colorado landmarks, including the legendary Argo Gold Mine & Mill and the charming Charlie Taylor Water Wheel. The adventure begins at the famed Chicago Creek put‑in, the very site where George Jackson discovered gold in 1859—a moment that shaped Colorado’s history. For families, first‑timers, and anyone looking for an approachable yet exciting rafting experience just minutes from Denver, this is the top choice for beginner rafting in Colorado!

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Clear Creek Advanced half day in Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs , Colorado

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (50 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 115.00

Duration: 2 hours (approx.)

The Clear Creek advanced rafting trip is extremely exciting and is intended for those who are strong swimmers and in good physical condition. The rapids are long and in close proximity to each other. This makes for an exhilarating and continuous whitewater rafting experience!

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Upper Clear Creek Half-Day Whitewater Rafting from Idaho Springs in Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs , Colorado

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (32 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 93.64

Duration: 3 hours (approx.)

Our exciting class III-IV Upper Clear Creek river rafting trip provides an exciting experience for adventurous first-timers and experienced rafters. This continuous, steep, technical section will keep your paddle moving and your heart thumping as you crash through Class IV rapids such as Phoenix, Nomad, Fall River, and Outer Limits.

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Clear Creek Gold Rush Whitewater Rafting from Idaho Springs in Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs , Colorado

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (24 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 69.44

Duration: 3 hours (approx.)

Our Clear Creek Gold Rush whitewater rafting trip (Class II-III) near Idaho Springs provides a unique introduction to summer in Colorado. If you’re looking for an adventure for a family trip, work event, school event, or scouting trip the Clear Creek Gold Rush is the perfect introduction to beginner whitewater rafting.

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Clear Creek Advanced/Intermediate 2h 30m Rafting Trip in Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs , Colorado

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (22 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 99.01

Duration: 2 hours (approx.)

Embark on an exhilarating 2.5-hour whitewater adventure on Clear Creek, just 30 minutes from Denver. This intermediate rafting trip is perfect for adventurous first timers and seasoned paddlers alike, offering a thrilling ride through continuous Class III–IV rapids. Navigate challenging sections like “Nomad,” “Fall River,” “Deliverance,” and the grand finale, “Outer Limits,” as you descend through the scenic Clear Creek Canyon. The steep gradient and technical maneuvers require active paddling and teamwork, making for an adrenaline filled experience. Our professional guides provide comprehensive safety briefings and all necessary gear, including personal flotation devices, helmets, and wetsuits. After conquering the rapids, enjoy the historic charm of Idaho Springs, a town rich in Colorado's gold mining history. This trip is ideal for those seeking a dynamic and memorable rafting experience close to Denver

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Clear Creek Classic 2h 30m Rafting Trip - Idaho Springs, CO in Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs , Colorado

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (19 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 82.11

Duration: 2 hours (approx.)

The Clear Creek Classic trip offers fun for the whole family with splashy Class II–III rapids. Total activity time is 2 hours and 30 minutes from meet to return. Paddle through the scenic Clear Creek Canyon near Idaho Springs, surrounded by Colorado’s gold rush history and stunning mountain views. This fun, hands-on adventure is ideal for those looking to get wet and enjoy the outdoors without extreme intensity. Paddling is required, and all trips include safety orientation, paddle instruction, and gear (PFD, helmet, and wetsuit rentals available). A great way to cool off and experience Colorado’s whitewater!

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Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata Climbing Experience in Idaho Springs in Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs , Colorado

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (19 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 138.03

Duration: 3 hours (approx.)

A Via Ferrata, which means “iron way” in Italian, is a method of mountaineering & rock climbing that’s been used in Europe for centuries. Via Ferrata courses use a combination of ladders, rungs, rails, cables and bridges to aid in moving across and up a cliff face. The Iron Way in Idaho Springs is an assisted rock climbing guided tour where guests clip into cables that run along the side of a cliff. They then move along a designated path of iron rungs and bridges to move across, and along the way they will be required to clip in and out of the cable to progress through the course. This is made possible through an advanced internal locking system in the carabiners. Each guest will have 2 carabiners connected to bungee-style lanyards on their harness. The internal locking system makes it impossible to clip out of both at the same time, insuring that climbers are connected to the cable of the course at all times.

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Whitewater Raft Clear Creek - Intermediate Cannonball Run  in Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs , Colorado

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (17 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 97.90

Duration: 3 hours (approx.)

Clear Creek is one of the best whitewater rafting rivers in Colorado, and for great reasons. The canyon offers all levels of whitewater challenge, and easy access. The setting includes scenic flats, mining ruins, wildlife, and, of course, exciting whitewater flowing over rocks. Nearby is Idaho Springs, where the gold rush began. It is the first city founded in Colorado, in 1859. This quaint town is nestled in the foothills of some of Colorado’s best mountains and holds a unique place in the state’s history. As the place where the Colorado Gold Rush started, this little town holds a lot of secrets, including one of the best river rafting areas in the State! Conveniently located about 30 minutes west of Denver, and close to Breckenridge, Silverthorne, Dillon, and Winter Park, Clear Creek has rafting trip options for varying ability and experience levels.

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Idaho Springs Cliffside Zipline in Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs , Colorado

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (17 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 95.23

Duration: 2 hours (approx.)

Our zipline course is built within the natural topography of the Colorado Rockies, nestled above historic town of Idaho Springs and at the base of the Mount Evans Scenic Byway. Explore the cliffside on the six different zip lines, including a dual race line to challenge another member of your group! You'll cross multiple suspended bridges as well while you venture your way back down to our outpost.

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Advanced Whitewater Rafting in Clear Creek Canyon near Denver in Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs , Colorado

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (16 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 120.12

Duration: 3 hours (approx.)

Not for the faint of heart, this is one of the most technical and continuous sections of whitewater in the nation. Sections of this run plummet at a rate of over 100 feet per mile. Teamwork and the ability to follow instructions are key to success on this run. Guides will instruct guests how to follow on-water commands and how to stay safe in adverse situations. Swimming skills, although they may not be used, are a must when traveling on this section of Clear Creek.

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Raft the Gold Nugget Whitewater Challenge on Clear Creek: Ages 6+ in Idaho Springs

Idaho Springs , Colorado

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (9 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 95.00

Duration: 2 hours (approx.)

Clear Creek is one of the best whitewater rafting rivers in Colorado, and for great reasons. The canyon offers all levels of whitewater challenge, and easy access. The setting includes scenic flats, mining ruins, wildlife, and, of course, exciting whitewater flowing over rocks. Nearby is Idaho Springs, where the gold rush began. One of the first cities founded in Colorado, in 1859, this quaint town is nestled in the foothills of some of Colorado’s best mountains and holds a unique place in the state’s history. As the place where the Colorado Gold Rush started, this little town holds a lot of secrets, including one of the best river rafting areas in the State! Conveniently located about 30 minutes West of Denver, and close to Breckenridge, Silverthorne, Dillon, and Winter Park, Clear Creek has rafting trip options for varying ability and experience levels.

Book Now You'll be redirected to Viator to finish your booking.

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