Planning a Colorado river adventure? Whether you’re after a relaxing float or a family-friendly outing, the Upper Colorado Full Day Scenic Float offers a peaceful yet captivating way to see mountain landscapes up close. Hosted by AVA Rafting and Zipline, this trip promises not just views but genuine guidance from seasoned guides who keep the experience fun and educational.
We love that this tour combines relaxed float style with enough small rapids to keep it lively, plus the chance to see wildlife and stunning mountain scenery. The lunch on the river adds a touch of adventure to the day, making it more than just a ride on the water. The only possible consideration? It’s a gentle route without whitewater thrills, so if you’re after high-energy rapids, this might not be your trip.
This float is best suited for families, first-time river explorers, or anyone who appreciates a scenic, leisurely cruise through Colorado’s rugged landscape without the exertion of whitewater rafting. It’s an ideal choice for those who want the experience of floating down a river while still enjoying the comfort of guided commentary and safety equipment.
Key Points

- Family-friendly adventure: Suitable for ages 2 and up, with a minimum weight of 30 lbs.
- Valuable guides: Knowledgeable guides who enrich the trip with local info and fun stories.
- Beautiful scenery: Winding through the Gore Range, with chances to spot wildlife.
- Relaxed pace: Gentle flowing water with a few small rapids, perfect for all skill levels.
- All-inclusive: Helmets, splash jackets, and lunch included for a worry-free experience.
- Good value: At $164.17, you get a full day of scenic fun, guided expertise, and memorable moments.
Setting and Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day

The journey begins early at the meeting point at 1606 Park Ave, Kremmling, around 9:00am. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable bus or vehicle that transports you about 50 miles south to the starting point — a small but charming town that acts as your gateway to river serenity. The drive itself offers a scenic preview of Colorado’s high country, setting the perfect tone.
Once on-site, your group will gear up with all necessary safety equipment — helmets, splash jackets, and wet suits when needed. The friendly guides will brief you on safety procedures but are also eager to share their knowledge about the river, the surrounding wildlife, and the history of the Gore Range.
As you gently float down the Upper Colorado River, you’ll notice how accessible and inviting the water is — mostly calm, with just a few small rapids that add some splash and excitement without risking spillages or mishaps. The guides will point out interesting features along the way, from towering cliffs to local birdlife and possibly bighorn sheep along the riverbanks.
The trip naturally lends itself to photo breaks, with stunning vistas that you’ll want to remember long after you leave. Several reviews mention the guides’ impressive knowledge, with one saying, “Our guide, Therese, was fantastic, and really added to our enjoyment,” and others praising guides like Steven, Isaiah, Kayla, Christian, and Ian for their friendliness and expertise.
Around mid-morning, you’ll stop for a riverside lunch — a laid-back picnic with options that keep everyone happy. Most travelers appreciate how the guides cleverly incorporate food breaks without disrupting the flow of the day. After lunch, the float continues through more scenic sections, with chances to dip into hot springs or marvel at mountain vistas — activities some guides have been known to suggest or even help organize.
The journey wraps up back at the starting point in Kremmling, typically after about six hours of floating, sightseeing, and relaxing. The ride back is a good opportunity to unwind and chat about your favorite parts of the day.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Breckenridge.
Why This Float Is a Great Value

At $164.17 per person, this trip isn’t just a float — it’s an investment in a full day of scenic beauty, guided expertise, and memorable moments. The price includes all taxes, fees, and lunch, so there are no surprise costs. The small group size — capped at 30 travelers — ensures everyone gets personalized attention, making the experience even more enjoyable.
Given the reviews praising guides’ friendliness and knowledge, you’re paying for quality interaction as much as natural beauty. The inclusion of safety gear and the fact that most travelers find it suitable for children and beginners adds to its accessibility. Plus, the tour is booked on average 24 days in advance, indicating strong demand for such a well-regarded experience.
Detailed Review of the Experience
The hallmark of this tour is its balance of relaxation and scenery. Unlike whitewater adventures, this float emphasizes a gentle, scenic cruise through one of Colorado’s most picturesque regions. Expect to see mountain ranch land, towering cliffs, and perhaps some wildlife like birds or even bighorn sheep — a detail many reviewers appreciated, commenting on the variety of animals observed.
The guides stand out as a major highlight. Multiple reviews note guides like Steven, Therese, Kayla, Christian, Ian, and others for their friendly demeanor, local knowledge, and safety-conscious approach. One reviewer even said, “Our guide, Alexander, was great — super friendly and knowledgeable, making the trip fun for everyone, including the kids.” This personal touch elevates the experience from a routine float to a memorable outing.
Participants consistently mention the scenery as breathtaking, with the Gore Range’s rugged cliffs providing a stunning backdrop. The river’s calm flow makes it suitable for all ages, including young children, with a minimum age of 2 and weight requirement of 30 lbs. This accessibility opens up the adventure to families, grandparents, or anyone looking for a scenic escape.
The lunch on the river is described as “laid-back” and satisfying, with some guides even stopping for dips in hot springs or cliff jumps, adding an element of spontaneity and fun. Such touches, along with the opportunity to photograph wildlife and scenic vistas, make it clear that this isn’t just a float — it’s a chance to connect with Colorado’s natural beauty.
The small group size and professional guides ensure safety and a personal atmosphere. Travelers often mention the guides’ humor and storytelling abilities, which make the day even more enjoyable, especially for families or first-timers.
Practical Aspects and Considerations

Timing is straightforward: meet at 9:00am, enjoy six hours of floating, sightseeing, and lunch, and return in the early afternoon. The tour’s duration of approximately six hours makes it a full but manageable day, especially for travelers who want a relaxed pace rather than a rush.
Transportation to the starting point is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own travel from Breckenridge or nearby towns. The meeting point in Kremmling is easy to find, and most reviews mention friendly staff and smooth check-ins.
The price covers all safety gear, taxes, and the provided lunch, making it a transparent and fair cost for what you get. The capacity of 30 travelers keeps things intimate, but it’s still large enough to be lively and social.
Most importantly, this tour is suitable for most travelers — with the key requirements being secure footwear (no flip-flops or crocs) and the ability to sit comfortably in a boat. The minimum age of 2 years and weight limit of 30 lbs mean even small children can join, provided they’re comfortable around water.
The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This scenic float is perfect for travelers seeking a calm, visually stunning river experience in Colorado. It’s ideal for families, first-time floaters, or anyone who wants to enjoy the natural beauty without the adrenaline rush of whitewater. The guides’ friendliness and expertise turn a simple float into a memorable adventure, packed with interesting sights and stories.
For those who value authentic guided experiences and scenic tranquility, this trip offers a fantastic balance of comfort, natural beauty, and local insight. It’s a great way to spend a full day immersed in Colorado’s mountain landscape, with the added bonus of wildlife sightings and the chance to relax along the river.
While it may not satisfy adventure-seekers craving rapid whitewater action, it compensates with stunning vistas, friendly guides, and a peaceful float. It’s a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting a scenic, family-friendly day on the water in Colorado.
FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s designed to be family-friendly, with a minimum age of 2 years and a minimum weight of 30 lbs, making it accessible for young kids and grandparents alike.
Are safety gear and equipment provided?
Yes, helmets, splash jackets, and wetsuits are included, ensuring everyone stays comfortable and protected during the float.
Do I need to bring my own transportation?
Transportation to the meeting point in Kremmling is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way there. The tour begins at 9:00am.
What should I wear or bring?
Secure footwear is required — no flip-flops or crocs. Dress for the weather, and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera for capturing the scenery. Nothing else is necessary as lunch and gear are provided.
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately six hours, including travel, floating, stops, and lunch.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.
This full-day float on the Upper Colorado offers a wonderful way to see some of Colorado’s most scenic landscapes at a relaxed pace, guided by friendly experts who make sure your experience is both safe and memorable.
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