BUENA VISTA RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
Raft the Numbers, Then Soak: A Buena Vista Day of Whitewater and Hot Springs
This half- to full-day package pairs a run through the Numbers rapids with a soak at a Colorado hot springs and a BBQ-style lunch—useful planning details and gear notes for would-be participants.
Raft the Numbers, Then Soak: A Buena Vista Day of Whitewater and Hot Springs.
Adventure brief
Raft the Numbers, Then Soak: A Buena Vista Day of Whitewater and Hot Springs
After a run through the Numbers—one of the region’s most talked-about stretches of whitewater—you’ll land at a riverside beer garden for a BBQ-style lunch before slipping into one of Colorado’s most picturesque hot springs to unwind.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with The Numbers Raft + Hot Springs experience in Buena Vista, Colorado. This guided rafting trip offers thrill-seekers the chance to navigate exhilarating rapids on the Arkansas River, renowned for its exciting waves and scenic beauty. After a day of rafting, soothe your muscles in the naturally warm hot springs, a perfect way to relax and recharge while enjoying stunning mountain views. The trip combines adrenaline with relaxation, making it ideal for those seeking a balanced outdoor escape. Perfect for families, friends, or solo travelers, this adventure presents a fantastic opportunity to explore Colorado’s outdoor treasures while creating unforgettable memories. Expert guides from American Adventure Expeditions ensure safety and fun throughout the journey, making it suitable for beginners and experienced paddle enthusiasts alike. Gear up for a day filled with splashy rapids, breathtaking landscapes, and soothing springs — an experience that captures the spirit of Colorado adventure at its best.
Route Schematic
Route schematic
Key stops and what you do at each point along the outing.
Buena Vista Rafting Outpost
Trip departs from the Buena Vista Rafting Outpost; check-in is required prior to departure.
The Numbers (Rafting)
Guided rafting trip through the Numbers rapids—the river section that anchors the experience.
Riverside Beer Garden (BBQ Lunch)
A BBQ-style lunch is included and served riverside at the operator’s Beer Garden.
Hot Springs Soak
After lunch, participants pick up hot springs passes at the outpost and enjoy a soak at one of Colorado’s scenic hot springs.
Minimum age to participate is 15 years; departures begin at 9:00 am, check-in is 45 minutes prior, and the full outing can take up to 8 hours (subject to river and local conditions).
What the day feels like
How the day unfolds
You depart from the Buena Vista rafting outpost, run the Numbers with guides, break for a BBQ-style riverside lunch at the Riverside Beer Garden, then finish the day by soaking in a nearby hot springs—an order designed to pair adrenaline with recovery.
THE RIVER
World-class whitewater on the Numbers
The core of the day is a guided raft through the Numbers rapids—short, intense sections of river that make this a definitive Colorado whitewater experience.
THE MEAL
Riverside BBQ at the Beer Garden
The package includes a delicious BBQ-style lunch served at the operator’s Riverside Beer Garden, an easy way to refuel after the river.
THE RECOVERY
Soak in a picturesque Colorado hot springs
Following the river and lunch, guests pick up hot springs passes and enjoy a restorative soak in a scenic hot springs as part of the package.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits—and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring a swimsuit and quick-drying clothing (no cotton or denim). Sunglasses, sunscreen, dry clothes and a towel for after the trip are recommended. Money is suggested for gratuities, photos, and souvenirs. A free wetsuit package (2mm neoprene wetsuit, splash jacket, and river shoes) is included.
Bring a swimsuit, sunglasses, sunscreen, dry clothes and a towel for after your soak. Hot springs passes are picked up at the Buena Vista Rafting Outpost.
A complimentary wetsuit package is provided on all trips: a stretchy 2mm neoprene wetsuit, a urethane-coated splash jacket with neoprene cuffs, and neoprene river shoes.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What is the minimum age to participate?
Minimum age is 15 years old.
Where does the trip depart from and when?
This trip departs from the Buena Vista Rafting Outpost with a 9:00 am departure; check-in is 45 minutes prior to departure.
How long is the outing?
Allow up to 8 hours; actual time may vary depending on conditions.
Is a wetsuit provided?
Yes—every trip includes a free wetsuit package (2mm neoprene wetsuit, splash jacket, and river shoes).
Is lunch included?
Yes—the package includes a delicious BBQ-style lunch at the Riverside Beer Garden.
How do I get hot springs access?
Hot springs passes are available for pickup at the Buena Vista Rafting Outpost as part of the package.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-10T12:43:28.329Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.