BUENA VISTA RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
Run the Numbers: A Full‑Day Whitewater Gauntlet on the Arkansas River
A full‑day, 5–6 hour rafting experience on Buena Vista’s Arkansas River—Class IV–V whitewater with a catered riverside lunch for ages 14 and up.
Run the Numbers: A Full‑Day Whitewater Gauntlet on the Arkansas River.
The Numbers Full Day is an all‑day rafting trip down the Arkansas River’s famed Numbers section, a concentrated run of continuous Class IV–V rapids that threads the Narrows and the Miracle Mile beneath the Sawatch Mountains. Operated from River Runners’ Browns Canyon base, the itinerary pairs relentless whitewater with high‑country scenery and a catered riverside lunch.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Continuous Class IV–V Rapids
The Numbers section delivers a compact sequence of advanced rapids—so many they were numbered rather than named—offering sustained, technical whitewater for experienced paddlers.
High‑Country Scenery
The run unfolds beneath the Sawatch Mountains, providing dramatic alpine backdrops while you negotiate the river’s tight, fast channels.
Narrows, Miracle Mile, and a Riversides Lunch
The full‑day option includes the Narrows and the Miracle Mile and pauses for a catered riverside lunch—an intentional break between stretches of continuous rapids.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
Expect a sustained, high‑adrenaline day: long runs of class IV–V whitewater punctuated by a catered lunch on the riverbank and framed by Sawatch Mountain vistas. The Numbers Full Day is designed as an advanced, continuous whitewater experience that occupies most of the day.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The Numbers Full Day runs 5–6 hours. Trips depart daily at 9:30 am; check‑in is required one hour prior to departure.
Pack athletic moisture‑wicking clothing, a swimsuit, secure footwear (water shoes with a back strap or old tennis shoes), sunglasses with retainers, and sunscreen.
Departures originate from River Runners’ Browns Canyon location at 24070 Co Rd 301, Buena Vista, CO 81211; shuttles are provided as part of the trip logistics.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What is the trip’s difficulty rating?
The Numbers Full Day is rated Class IV–V and is intended as an advanced whitewater experience.
What are the age requirements?
Participants must be ages 14 and up.
How long does the trip take?
The trip lasts approximately 5–6 hours.
When does the trip depart and when should I check in?
Trips depart daily at 9:30 am; guests should check in one hour before departure.
Is lunch provided?
Yes. The full‑day option includes a catered riverside lunch.
Are transfers provided?
Shuttles are provided as part of the trip logistics.