BUENA VISTA RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
Happy Hour on the Arkansas: Six Miles of Class III Whitewater, Ending at the Riverside Grill
A 2–3 hour beginner–intermediate raft departing from River Runners Browns Canyon that runs six miles of the Arkansas River and finishes at the Riverside Grill—this guide explains what to expect, what to bring, and the logistics.
Happy Hour on the Arkansas: Six Miles of Class III Whitewater, Ending at the Riverside Grill.
The Happy Hour Raft Trip on the Arkansas River launches from River Runners in Buena Vista and delivers an energetic, late‑day six‑mile run through Intermediate Class III (IV) water before diners and drinkers disembark at the Riverside Grill for half‑priced drinks and optional dinner.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Intermediate Class III (IV) Whitewater
The run is rated Intermediate—Class III with occasional IV moves—offering an active raft experience that suits paddlers looking for an adrenaline finish to the day.
Six Miles to the Riverside Grill
The trip covers roughly six miles of the Arkansas River, departing from River Runners Browns Canyon and ending at the Riverside Grill where the group can relax and eat if they choose.
Half‑Price Drinks and Optional Dinner
After the run all drinks at the Riverside Grill are half price; dinner is optional, making the trip as much about the social finish as the river.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
Expect a compact, energetic outing: check in and gear up, then launch for a six‑mile Arkansas River run that threads Class III (and occasional IV) rapids before the rafts float to the Riverside Grill, where paddlers trade paddles for cold drinks and optional dinner.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Athletic moisture‑wicking clothing, a swimsuit, secure footwear (water shoes with a back strap or old tennis shoes), sunglasses with retainers, and sunscreen are recommended.
Secure footwear is required on the river — water shoes with a back strap or old tennis shoes are suggested.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Happy Hour Trip?
The trip duration is 2–3 hours.
Where do we meet for the trip?
Meet at River Runners — 24070 Co Rd 301, Buena Vista, CO 81211; plan to arrive 45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure to check in, gear up, and receive safety orientation.
What is the minimum age and skill level required?
The trip is aimed at beginner to intermediate paddlers and requires participants to be age 12 or older.
Are food and drinks included?
Drinks at the Riverside Grill are half price and dinner is optional; food and full‑price items are not included as part of the trip.
What should I bring with me?
Bring athletic moisture‑wicking clothing, a swimsuit, secure footwear (water shoes with a back strap or old tennis shoes), sunglasses with retainers, and sunscreen.
What is the check‑in and cancellation policy?
Check in at the designated outpost, confirm group names and signed waivers; same‑day cancellations are not refunded but may receive a credit usable toward merchandise, photos, or a future rafting trip.
Is shuttle service provided?
River Runners provides shuttle service to and from all commercial river trips.