Hydrate for Altitude
Start hydrating the day before—Buena Vista sits at high elevation and exertion makes dehydration feel worse.
Riding the Numbers: Half-Day Rafting and Mountaintop Zips Above Buena Vista
Two high-adrenaline Colorado classics—zip the ridgeline, then run the Numbers on a day that measures risk, skill, and pure fun.
Buena Vista, Colorado•By Robert Eric Crews•Water Activities,Aerial Adventures,Land Adventures•July•summer
Continue ReadingYou step onto the trailhead for the zipline with river-scented air—pine resin, hot rock, and the distant metallic hint of running water. The mountaintop course is threaded through a craggy, 43‑acre stretch of old Gold Camp property where pines and trembling aspens keep watch. From the cliff edges the Arkansas River threads the valley below like a restless ribbon, daring you twice in one day: first to launch from the trees into the high country, then to toss you into the carved, turbulent tongue called the Numbers.
Duration7 hours (approx.)
Rating5.0 (4 reviews)
Trail Wisdom
Trail Wisdom
Secure Footwear
Wear shoes with good grip that can get wet—no open-toed sandals—and bring a dry pair for after the river.
Layer Smart
Mornings and zips can be cool; pack a lightweight insulating layer and a wind shell you can discard for rafting.
Listen to Your Guide
Guides control the safety rhythm—follow commands immediately, especially entering and exiting rapids or platforms.
Local Knowledge
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- Mount Princeton Hot Springs for a post-adventure soak
- A short walk to riverside viewpoints for intimate photos of the Numbers
Wildlife
Mule deer, Bald eagle
Conservation Note
Operators emphasize Leave No Trace river etiquette and collaborate with local stewardship groups to minimize shoreline impact; pack out all trash and avoid disturbing riparian habitats.
The zipline property sits on old Gold Camp land; the Buena Vista valley was shaped by 19th-century prospecting and later developed into a recreation corridor along the Arkansas River.
Seasonal Guide
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for:High river flows, Dynamic rapids, Fewer crowds
Challenges:Cold water temps, Variable weather, Possible muddy access roads
Late spring brings powerful snowmelt-driven flows that make the Numbers especially raw—better for strong paddlers and those seeking big water.
summer
Best for:Reliable operations, Warm days, Full zipline access
Challenges:Higher visitation, Sun exposure, Variable afternoon storms
Summer is peak season for both ziplines and rafting—expect consistent schedules, warm air and lively rapids.
fall
Best for:Crisp air and color, Smaller crowds, Clearer skies
Challenges:Lower river flows, Cooler temperatures, Shorter daylight
Early fall offers golden aspen and quieter runs; flows taper off so the experience is more technical than full‑throttle.
winter
Best for:Off‑season planning, Nearby winter sports
Challenges:Zipline and rafting largely closed, Cold, snowy conditions, Limited services
Winter is the quiet season—this combo isn’t typically available, but the valley becomes a base for skiing and hot springs instead.
Photographer's Notes
Photographer's Notes
Bring a compact, fast-action camera or phone in a waterproof case; use burst mode for rapids sequences and low shutter speeds (with stabilization) for silky-water canyon shots—ask guides for safe photo stops and secure your device with a wrist strap during zips.
What to Bring
What to Bring
Quick‑dry clothing
EssentialDries fast after spray and helps regulate temperature on and off the river.
Secure river shoes
EssentialProtects feet from rocks and keeps traction on wet platforms and raft floors.
Light wind shell
Blocks chill on morning zips or when the wind picks up on the ridge.
Small dry bag or waterproof phone case
EssentialProtects keys, phone and camera during the rafting portion.
Common Questions
Common Questions
What to Pack
What to Pack
Hydration pack — altitude and exertion demand frequent sips; Quick‑dry layers — for comfort between zips and rafting; Secure water shoes — for traction and foot protection; Sunscreen and sunglasses — strong mountain sun reflects off water
Did You Know
Did You Know
The Arkansas River through Buena Vista is one of Colorado’s most rafted rivers; the Numbers section is known locally for its continuous Class III–V rapids, including a steep ledge drop into No. 5 rapid.
Quick Travel Tips
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning zips to avoid afternoon storms; bring a lightweight towel and change of clothes; stash valuables in a waterproof bag; plan a post-trip soak at nearby hot springs
Local Flavor
Local Flavor
After the day’s rush, head into Buena Vista for a cold local beer at Eddyline Brewery & Restaurant and a hearty plate of local fare; for a low-key recovery, drive a short distance to Mount Princeton Hot Springs for a soak while you let your muscles and the river calm down.
Logistics Snapshot
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airportColorado Springs Airport (COS) ~2 hours drive; Driving distance from Buena Vista center: typically under 30 minutes to meeting points; Cell service: intermittent in canyon sections; Permits
passesnone typically required—the outfitter manages permits and river access.
Sustainability Note
Sustainability Note
This experience runs through sensitive riparian and forested areas—pack out all trash, avoid single-use plastics, and follow guide instructions to minimize shoreline and wildlife disturbance.
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