Frequently Asked Questions

Consider a few things when choosing a rafting trip:

1. What level of excitement are you looking for?
2. What is appropriate for your group’s ages and adventure level?
3. How much time do you want to invest in your rafting trip?

Our helpful staff is happy to answer any questions and help you choose the best trip to make your rafting adventure the highlight of your Colorado vacation.

All of our guides are extensively trained in river rescue, first aid, and CPR. Many have advanced certifications such as Swift Water Rescue Technician, Wilderness First Responder, and EMT. Engaging in rafting and related activities involve inherent risks that cannot necessarily be predicted or controlled and can lead to injury and property damage. Please review our waiver for more information. We ask that you choose a trip within the ability levels of all participants in your group.

It is the best way to ensure you are not disappointed. We often have trips available tomorrow, so last minute reservations are worth a call. You cannot book online within 24 hours of trip time. We pride ourselves in keeping every group together and not splitting them up based on the number of overall rafters on a trip. This takes a little organization. Call 970.641.3131 or click here to book online!

We are happy to answer any questions and help you choose the perfect Colorado rafting adventure. Call us at 970.641.3131. You can also book most trips online, just be sure you are 24 hours ahead of trip time.

Yes, we offer group discounts to groups of 24 or more. To qualify for group rates we do ask for 1 person to be responsible for all payments. Group rates do not apply if everyone in your group is paying individually. * Discounts cannot be combined with any other offers.

Scenic River Tours runs all trips rain or shine, regardless of the weather. Please be on time. If you arrive late for your trip we may not be able to accommodate you and your trip will be forfeited. Within 48 hours of your trip you are responsible for full payment of each spot reserved and no refunds are available. Cancellations and changes cannot be made online or by email. They must be confirmed by a Scenic River Tours representative. Scenic River Tours reserves the right to cancel or alter any trip.

Gratuities are accepted and appreciated. If your trip was made better by your hardworking guide, a tip is a great way to say thanks. If you did not enjoy your experience for any reason, please bring it to the attention of our management.

We will provide everything you need for your rafting adventure! Each guest is fitted with the required Type V Coast Guard approved life vest. We offer wetsox, wetsuits, paddle jackets and helmets, but not all are necessary on every trip. We have footwear for you on all our Taylor River trips. Our raft fleet is purchased through Hyside Inflatables. Hyside uses the toughest and most durable Hypalon fabric to build boats. We are very proud of the way we maintain and upgrade our fleet on a regular basis.

You should plan on being wet! Swimsuits and nylon shorts generally work best; avoid cotton as it draws away warmth. For layering, stick to synthetic fabrics that insulate when wet, like fleece and polypropylene. Wool also works well. You must wear sturdy footwear such as river sandals with an ankle strap, or tennis shoes that can get wet (no flip-flops or crocs). Sunglasses with a strap and sunscreen are important for sunny days on the river. A FULL SET of Dry clothing and a towel for after the trip are critical.

A FULL CHANGE of dry clothes and towel for after your trip. Your sunglass strap retainer. We sell a ton of them, but we know you already have at least one somewhere! We provide action photographs for viewing/ purchase of your group rafting after the trip. You should also bring along any prescribed medication you may require such as epi-pens or asthma inhalers, and have a chat with your guide about your needs. Anything you bring on the raft will get wet and could be lost, so we recommend leaving all valuables such as jewelry, cell phones and other electronics at home or in your car. We will check your cars keys in the front desk once you are ready to head to the river with us.

Please do not bring pets. Our parking areas do not have adequate shade to keep your furry friends cool in the hot summer sun.

Yes! There are restrooms at the office, again at the put-in after we get to the river, halfway through the trip, and at the end of the trip before we head back to the office. We want you to be comfortable!

All guests are outfitted with and required to wear a Coast Guard approved Type V life jacket that is specifically designed for whitewater rafting. All rafters must be willing and able to participate in their own rescue and need to be able to get to the boat or shore by themselves. Participants who can swim are more comfortable in the water and it makes it much easier to get out of the river should you find yourself out of the boat.

All participants (and a Parent or Legal Guardian, if the participant is a minor) are required to sign an Acknowledgement and Assumption of Risks and Release and Indemnity Agreement before participating, and understand that they assume responsibility and liability in the event of an injury or other loss. Click here to download a copy of our waiver.

Any medical or mental condition or physical disability should be disclosed on the Acknowledgement and Assumption of Risks and Release and Indemnity Agreement. In addition please advise your guide/trip leader prior to your trip. Rafting is not recommended for persons with serious medical conditions or pregnant women.

Yes! All of our guides are fun and professional, but if you have a specific guide in mind you are welcome to request him or her. We will do our best to make sure you get to raft with your requested guide, but it may not always be possible, based on scheduling and availability.

Class I

Fast moving water with riffles and small waves. Few obstructions, all obvious and easily missed with little training. The risk to swimmers is slight; self-rescue is easy.

Class II

Straightforward rapids with wide, clear channels which are evident without scouting. Occasional maneuvering may be required, but rocks and medium-sized waves are easily missed by trained paddlers. Swimmers are seldom injured and group assistance, while helpful, is seldom needed. Rapids that are at the upper end of this difficulty range are designated “Class II+”.

Class III

Rapids with moderate, irregular waves which may be difficult to avoid. Complex maneuvers in fast current and good boat control in tight passages or around ledges are often required; large waves or strainers may be present but are easily avoided. Strong eddies and powerful current effects can be found, particularly on large-volume rivers. Injuries while swimming are rare; self-rescue is usually easy but group assistance may be required to avoid long swims. Rapids that are at the lower or upper end of this difficulty range are designated “Class III-” or “Class III+” respectively.

Class IV

Intense, powerful but predictable rapids requiring precise boat handling in turbulent water. Depending on the character of the river, it may feature large, unavoidable waves and holes or constricted passages demanding fast maneuvers under pressure. A fast, reliable eddy turn may be needed to initiate maneuvers, scout rapids, or rest. Rapids may require “must make” moves above dangerous hazards. Risk of injury to swimmers can be moderate to high, and water conditions may make self-rescue difficult. Group assistance for rescue is often essential and requires teamwork. Rapids that are at the lower or upper end of this difficulty range are designated “Class IV-” or “Class IV+” respectively.

Class V

Extremely long, obstructed, or very violent rapids which expose a paddler to added risk. Drops may contain large, unavoidable waves and holes or steep, congested chutes with complex, demanding routes. Rapids may continue for long distances between pools, demanding a high level of fitness. What eddies exist may be small, turbulent, or difficult to reach. At the high end of the scale, several of these factors may be combined. Scouting is recommended but may be difficult. Swims are dangerous, and rescue is often difficult even for experts. Proper equipment, extensive experience, and practiced rescue skills are essential.

Class VI

This classification is generally reserved for rapids that are considered un-runnable.