Denver: Upper Clear Creek Intermediate Whitewater Rafting

Tucked away in the heart of the Rockies, the Upper Clear Creek in Colorado beckons adventurers seeking an adrenaline-fueled escapade. This intermediate-level whitewater rafting experience promises an exhilarating journey through Class III-IV rapids, where thrill-seekers can conquer challenges like Phoenix, Deliverance, and Nomad. With breathtaking mountain vistas and historical Argo Mill relics as a backdrop, this 3-hour adventure is a must for those with a moderate fitness level and swimming abilities. But before embarking on this white-knuckle ride, there are a few key details to consider.

Key Points

• The Upper Clear Creek Whitewater Rafting activity is an intermediate-level, 3-hour experience featuring Class III-IV rapids with thrilling challenges.
• Participants must possess a moderate level of physical fitness and swimming ability, with a minimum age requirement of 13 years.
• The activity includes transportation, rafting equipment, wetsuit rental, and a dry bag, with neoprene booties available for an additional fee.
• Rafters will navigate through the roaring rapids of Clear Creek, including the challenging Phoenix, Deliverance, Nomad, and Fall River rapids.
• The meeting point is Downstream Adventures Rafting in the town of Empire, Colorado, accessible from I-70 exit 232.

Activity Details

The Upper Clear Creek Whitewater Rafting activity is an intermediate-level, 3-hour whitewater rafting experience featuring Class III-IV rapids. Participants will navigate the roaring rapids of Clear Creek, tackling thrilling challenges like Phoenix, Deliverance, Nomad, and Fall River.

The activity includes transportation, rafting equipment, wetsuit rental, and a dry bag. Neoprene bootie rentals are available for an additional $3 per person.

Adventurers will be treated to breathtaking scenery of the Rocky Mountains and historic Argo Mill gold rush relics.

However, the activity isn’t suitable for children under 13, pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those with a low fitness level.

Inclusions and Highlights

Rafting the Upper Clear Creek includes transportation to the meeting point, all necessary rafting equipment, and rental of a wetsuit and dry bag.

Plus, adventurers can opt to rent neoprene booties for an extra $3 per person.

The highlight of the trip is navigating the roaring rapids of Clear Creek, including thrilling challenges like Phoenix, Deliverance, Nomad, and Fall River.

Rafters will be treated to breathtaking scenery of the Rocky Mountains and the historic Argo Mill gold rush relics along the way.

This intermediate level whitewater adventure isn’t recommended for children under 13, pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those with a low fitness level.

Navigating the Rapids

Navigating the rapids of Clear Creek demands expert maneuvering, as rafters will encounter a series of challenging features like Phoenix, Deliverance, Nomad, and Fall River.

Phoenix, a Class IV rapid, presents a large wave train and a tricky line through the center.

Deliverance, another Class IV, requires precise paddling to avoid a large hole.

The Nomad rapid tests rafters’ skills with its unpredictable waves and boulders.

Finally, Fall River, a Class III-IV rapid, challenges teams to navigate a series of drops and waves.

These features make Upper Clear Creek an intermediate-level whitewater adventure, requiring focus, teamwork, and the guidance of experienced river guides.

Skill and Fitness Requirements

For an optimal experience on the Upper Clear Creek, participants must possess a moderate level of physical fitness and swimming ability. Individuals with low fitness levels or who can’t swim are discouraged from taking part, as the challenging rapids demand a certain degree of strength, endurance, and water competence.

The minimum age requirement is 13 years old, ensuring participants have the necessary coordination and stamina to navigate the Class III-IV rapids.

Pregnant women aren’t permitted on the rafting tour due to the physical demands and potential risks involved.

Non-swimmers or those with limited swimming skills are advised to reconsider, as their safety and the group’s could be jeopardized in the event of an unexpected swim.

Meeting Point and Directions

The meeting point for the Upper Clear Creek Whitewater Rafting adventure is Downstream Adventures Rafting, located at 409 Park Ave in the town of Empire, Colorado.

To reach the meeting point, you’ll need to take exit 232 from I-70 and follow US-40 West to the town of Empire. The partner location will be the second building on the right as you enter the town.

Once you’ve arrived, you’ll meet your guides and get outfitted with the necessary rafting equipment, including a wetsuit and neoprene booties.

From there, you’ll embark on an unforgettable journey through the roaring rapids of Clear Creek, surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the Rocky Mountains.

Duration and Schedule

The Upper Clear Creek Whitewater Rafting adventure lasts approximately 3 hours, offering an exhilarating and challenging experience for intermediate-level rafters. The trip covers a scenic stretch of the Clear Creek, known for its roaring rapids and breathtaking mountain vistas.

Highlights of the journey include:

• Navigating class III-IV rapids, such as Phoenix, Deliverance, Nomad, and Fall River
• Taking in the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains and encountering remnants of the Argo Mill gold rush
• Utilizing top-notch equipment, including rafts, wetsuits, and neoprene booties, to ensure a comfortable and safe adventure.

This whitewater rafting excursion isn’t recommended for children under 13, pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those with a low fitness level, ensuring a thrilling yet manageable experience for intermediate adventurers.

Prepping for the Adventure

Preparing for the Upper Clear Creek Whitewater Rafting adventure begins with meeting at the designated location, Downstream Adventures Rafting in Empire, Colorado. Here, you will sign waivers, get fitted for life jackets, and learn safety guidelines. The provided gear includes:

Gear	Included	Additional Cost
Rafting Equipment	✓	–
Wetsuit	✓	–
Neoprene Booties	–	$3 per person
Dry Bag	✓	–

Once ready, the group will board the transportation provided and head towards the put-in location on Upper Clear Creek. Along the way, experienced guides will share insights about the river, the rapids, and what to expect during the 3-hour whitewater adventure.

Nearby Attractions and Amenities

While whitewater rafting on Upper Clear Creek is the main draw, the surrounding area offers a wealth of additional attractions and amenities for visitors to explore before or after their adventure.

Nearby, guests can visit:

• The historic town of Empire, featuring preserved gold rush-era buildings and the Argo Mill & Tunnel, a fascinating relic from the area’s mining heyday.

The Arapaho National Forest, offering hiking, camping, and scenic drives through the stunning Rocky Mountain landscape.

Charming shops and restaurants in the nearby towns of Georgetown and Idaho Springs, providing opportunities to sample local cuisine and browse unique artisanal goods.

With so much to see and do, a day spent rafting on Upper Clear Creek is just the beginning of an unforgettable Rocky Mountain adventure.

Recap

The Upper Clear Creek in Colorado offers an exhilarating whitewater rafting adventure.

This intermediate-level, 3-hour experience navigates Class III-IV rapids, providing breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.

Adventurers will need moderate fitness and swimming abilities, and it’s not recommended for children under 13, pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those with low fitness levels.

After the thrilling ride, visitors can explore nearby attractions and amenities.