Boating in the Arkansas River Valley
Few people spend as much time in and by the rivers as the residents of Chaffee County. From fly-fishing to kayaking, rafting to relaxing, fun times can always be found on the Arkansas. If you come to raft, the whitewater is diverse and plentiful. Extremists should check out Pine Creek or the Numbers, Class IV-V sections upstream of Buena Vista.
Downstream the river flows into the granite walls of Browns Canyon. This is the most popular rafting trip in the country, and for good reason. The Class III whitewater is family friendly but still splashy and exciting enough for both experienced rafters and rookies. Drifting with the current creates a magical family memory. Questions… Outfitters are happy to help you book the perfect trip.
Kayakers choose from mellow to extreme downriver sections or navigate to the downtown play holes in Buena Vista and Salida. Experienced boaters can test the Class V sections north of Buena Vista. Lessons are available for first timers and some outfitters even rent inflatable kayaks to folks heading out on their own.Whether you’re a beginner kayaker or a pro, grab your boat and head to downtown Buena Vista for Paddlefest in late May. Kick off the summer whitewater season with an impressive array of kayak clinics for all ability levels and enjoy live music, food tents, beer gardens and rad kayak movies.
Not looking to get wet? Simply relax.
The Arkansas is beautiful even if you aren’t floating. Stroll riverside trails or hang out under blue skies. For anglers, a variety of public access areas with ambling current make for a great day of walking, wading and hooking fish.
Overall, it’s hard to find a place more in love with the river than the Upper Arkansas Valley. Hang out here long enough and you’ll be in love, too!
Courtesy of Chaffee County Visitors Bureau.
Visit www.NowThisIsColorado.com for more info.
Don’t Miss FIBArk
“First in Boating on the Arkansas,” has become an annual event in Salida. FIBArk attracts many from near and far as it is one of Salida’s most popular and defining activities that takes place every year in June. FIBArk brings whitewater talent and a weekend of fun, including freestyle events, water races, mountain biking races, running races, live music, and yoga. This four-day event offers fun and excitement for all, so whether you’re in your kayak or canoe, have your running shoes on or your biking spandex, or just want to wear your shades and take it all in, don’t miss the 63rd Annual FIBArk.
Check out: http://www.fibark.net/ for all your FIBArk needs.
