LAWSON RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
Class III–IV Whitewater on Clear Creek: An Intermediate Guided Run out of Lawson
A roughly three-hour, guided Clear Creek outing of continuous Class III–IV rapids — this guide explains what to expect, where to meet, and how to prepare.
Class III–IV Whitewater on Clear Creek: An Intermediate Guided Run out of Lawson.
Nestled within a steep, narrow canyon just 30 minutes from Denver, Clear Creek delivers a fast, relentless ribbon of whitewater that drops roughly 75 feet per mile. This intermediate guided run threads continuous Class III and IV rapids — from Nomad and Fall River to the Class IV climax at Outer Limits — demanding teamwork, steady paddling, and a willingness to get wet.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Fast, Steep Creek That Never Lets Up
Clear Creek’s steep, narrow canyon produces a high-energy descent — roughly 75 feet per mile — resulting in continuous, technical rapids that make this stretch the area’s most popular whitewater run.
Iconic Drops from Nomad to Outer Limits
Expect a sequence of named rapids — Nomad, Fall River, Phoenix, Deliverance — building to the Class IV finale, Outer Limits, a run that rewards teamwork and precise paddling.
Nonstop Adrenaline, Local Guiding
This intermediate trip is ideal for paddlers stepping up — or beginners seeking more thrill — with seasoned guides leading continuous river time and a focus on safety and skill-building.
What the day feels like
What It Feels Like on the Water
From gear-up to takeout you’re in motion: meet the crew, shuttle to the put-in, and then settle into a rapid-packed run where active paddling and guide commands steer you through a cascade of Class III–IV rapids. The flow is fast-paced and collaborative — expect repeated surges, short recovery intervals, and a climactic Class IV section.
THE RIVER
A Fast, Steep Creek That Never Lets Up
Clear Creek’s steep, narrow canyon produces a high-energy descent — roughly 75 feet per mile — resulting in continuous, technical rapids that make this stretch the area’s most popular whitewater run.
THE RAPIDS
Iconic Drops from Nomad to Outer Limits
Expect a sequence of named rapids — Nomad, Fall River, Phoenix, Deliverance — building to the Class IV finale, Outer Limits, a run that rewards teamwork and precise paddling.
THE EXPERIENCE
Nonstop Adrenaline, Local Guiding
This intermediate trip is ideal for paddlers stepping up — or beginners seeking more thrill — with seasoned guides leading continuous river time and a focus on safety and skill-building.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
You will gear up with your guides at the meeting location and receive orientation and safety briefing before shuttling to the put-in.
Participants should be in good physical condition and able to swim; active paddling and repeated rapids are part of the experience.
Plan to get wet and to hold your paddle as instructed — guides will outfit you and lead the group through continuous rapids.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip from check-in to finish?
The full experience is approximately three hours, including check-in, gearing up, shuttles, and on-water time.
Do I need prior rafting experience?
No prior experience is required, but the run features continuous Class III–IV rapids and active paddling.
Where and when do I meet the group?
Meet at Colorado Rafting Company at 3121 Co Rd 308 in Dumont (Clear Creek); guests should arrive 30 minutes early to check in and gear up.
What are the river’s difficulty and notable rapids?
The trip runs continuous Class III and IV whitewater with named rapids including Nomad, Fall River, Phoenix, Deliverance, and the Class IV Outer Limits.
Are there any fitness or swimming requirements?
Yes — participants should be in good physical condition and able to swim to participate safely.
Are there hidden fees I should expect?
The operator states a pricing promise of no hidden fees.