Mild Scenic Family Float on Arkansas River

Mild Scenic Family Float on Arkansas River: A Calm Ride with Big Views

If you’re looking for a fun and gentle introduction to Colorado’s world-famous whitewater rivers suitable for family members of all ages, the Mild Scenic Family Float on Arkansas River might be just the thing. This organized tour promises a laid-back, approximately two-hour adventure through rolling rapids on the Arkansas River, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado Springs.

One thing to keep in mind: this experience is tailored for those seeking a low-key, safe adventure — we’re talking about Class II-III rapids that are friendly enough for first-timers and young children. So, if you’re expecting adrenaline-pumping thrills or big, challenging rapids, this might not be the right fit.

What we really love about this tour is its focus on family-friendly fun and safety. The guides are praised for their knowledge and professionalism — “Our guide Dan was knowledgeable and made the experience enjoyable,” says one happy family. Plus, the scenic beauty of the river and surroundings makes the mellow ride far more special than a typical float.

However, a small consideration is the price: at about $146 per person, it’s not the cheapest quick outdoor activity, but the cost includes all gear, safety briefs, and professional guiding — those add up to good value, especially for the quality of the experience and safety provided. It’s also worth booking well in advance — this tour is typically scheduled 34 days ahead and sells out regularly.

Highlights of the Arkansas River Family Float

• Gentle Rapids in a Rocky Mountain Setting: Float comfortably through rolling Class II-III rapids with fantastic mountain vistas.
• Family-Friendly Experience: Perfect for kids, seniors, or those new to rafting who want a relaxed pace.
• All Necessary Gear Included: Helmets, life vests, splash jackets, wetsuits, and rafting gear are provided, so you just need to dress appropriately.
• Constant Supervision: A professional guide remains with you throughout, ensuring safety while sharing historical and natural commentary.
• Convenient & Accessible: From check-in to the river, the process is straightforward, and you’re transported directly from the office to the river, making logistics hassle-free.

The Itinerary Demystified

Stop 1: Arkansas River Tours – Colorado Rafting and Fishing Office

Your journey begins at the cozy Cotopaxi location, where friendly staff check you in, assign gear, and conduct a thorough safety briefing. Expect some light-hearted introductions and tips from your guide, setting a relaxed tone for the adventure. Afterwards, a short shuttle takes you to the river’s put-in point. This initial part, while brief, is key to setting expectations and making sure everyone feels prepared.

Stop 2: Arkansas River

Once on the river, you’ll paddle through gentle rapids amid scenic views of the dramatic Rocky Mountains, all while your guide provides instructions and commentary. The standout feature here is the balance between thrilling enough rapids to keep it interesting and mellow enough not to worry beginners. The average activity duration at this stage is about an hour, but it varies depending on water flow and your group’s pace.

Stop 3: Returns at the Office and Photo Viewing

After the float, you’ll return to the private beach where the tour started. Here, you can change into dry clothes and check out action photos of your trip — a delightful memento, especially for kids eager to see themselves in a rafting adventure. This quick stop lasts about 20 minutes, giving families a moment to relax and review their fun.

What Travelers Say

The consistent praise from past visitors highlights knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery. For example, one reviewer mentions that their guide, Kourtney, answered every question and made sure everyone felt comfortable, which can be a real confidence boost for first-timers. Another family expressed how their guide Dan “made the experience enjoyable and safe,” making it clear that the guides’ professionalism elevates the adventure.

A handful of reviews also mention how the experience is great for young children and seniors, emphasizing its accessibility. One guest noted that the kids “wanted to keep going,” indicating how engaging and family-friendly this tour is. Even beginners who had never rafted before felt reassured and thoroughly enjoyed the “interesting, relaxing” ride.

But it’s worth noting that not all reviews are perfect. A complaint about a guide’s rudeness was raised, which reminds us that even highly-rated tours can have less-than-ideal moments. However, most feedback supports the tour’s safety focus, natural beauty, and friendly guides.

What’s Included and What You Should Know

The fee covers all safety gear, taxes, fees, and transportation from the office to the river and back. The guides provide live commentary during the trip, sharing insights about the river and scenery. Vegetarians and foodies should note this experience does not include meals or drinks — so plan accordingly if you’re hungry afterward.

Optional souvenir photos are available for purchase if you want a keepsake, but these are not included in the base price. Gratuities for guides are customary, so consider tipping if you enjoyed the experience.

The Practicalities: Timing, Pricing, and How to Prepare

Start time is generally at 1:30 pm, which allows you to enjoy the cooler part of the afternoon and avoid the hottest midday hours. Advanced booking is recommended; most travelers book roughly a month in advance, which reflects its popularity. The cost of around $146 per person is fair given the inclusive gear and guided experience, especially since it suits novices and families who might otherwise worry about safety or equipment.

Dress code suggestions include avoiding cotton clothing—synthetic workout gear or swimwear works best—and sturdy shoes such as sneakers or sandals that stay on your feet. Flip-flops or Crocs are discouraged—they tend to slip off in the boat.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re traveling with young children, elderly family members, or simply want to ease into whitewater rafting without risking overt excitement or danger, this tour is designed for you. It delivers a safe, scenic, and fun adventure without demanding prior experience or physical fitness.

Couples and families will appreciate the manageable length of the trip, with flexibility ranging between 1.5 to 2.5 hours including check-in, safety briefings, and the float itself. Plus, the spectacular Rocky Mountain views are a bonus for anyone looking for memorable family photos and a taste of Colorado’s natural beauty.

The Sum Up: Why It Works Well for Many Travelers

This Mild Scenic Family Float presents great value for travelers eager to experience Colorado’s famous Arkansas River without the adrenaline rush of intense rapids. It’s especially suited for families, seniors, or first-timers seeking a laid-back adventure with excellent guidance and unforgettable mountain vistas.

While it may not appeal to thrill-seekers craving more challenging rapids or adrenaline-pumping rides, this tour delivers in terms of safety, scenic beauty, and quality guide service. It’s a lovely way for all ages to share a relaxing outdoor experience, explore Colorado’s scenic river settings, and create lasting memories with minimal fuss.

The entire process, from check-in through to post-ride photos, is thoughtfully organized — making the adventure straightforward and enjoyable. If you’re after a peaceful yet scenic Colorado outing that combines gentle adventure with the stunning backdrop of the Rockies, this float is a worthy choice.

FAQ

Is the float suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is great for families with young children, offering gentle rapids and a safe guided environment.

What gear is included in the price?
All necessary gear, including helmets, life vests, splash jackets, wetsuits, and rafting equipment, is provided.

How long does the entire experience last?
The total activity lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes, including check-in, safety briefings, the float, and post-ride photos.

Do I need prior rafting experience?
No prior experience is needed. The tour is designed for beginners and inexperience is perfectly fine.

What should I wear?
Dress in synthetic clothing such as swimwear or workout gear. Avoid cotton, and wear sturdy shoes like sneakers. No flip-flops or Crocs.

Can I purchase photos from the trip?
Yes, souvenir photos are available for purchase after the float at the private beach where the tour ends.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Less than 24 hours, and the refund is not available.

Ready to relax and enjoy Colorado’s scenic Arkansas River? This family float pairs stunning mountain views with gentle river currents, making it an ideal outing for making lifelong memories without the thrills of big rapids.