Things to Do in Idaho Springs

Embark on a half-day whitewater rafting adventure through the scenic Gold Rush section of Clear Creek. Paddle through gentle Class II rapids and enjoy the beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

A Via Ferrata, which means “iron way” in Italian, is a method of mountaineering & rock climbing that’s been used in Europe for centuries. Via Ferrata courses use a combination of ladders, rungs, rails, cables and bridges to aid in moving across and up a cliff face. The Iron Way in Idaho Springs is an assisted rock climbing guided tour where guests clip into cables that run along the side of a cliff. They then move along a designated path of iron rungs and bridges to move across, and along the way they will be required to clip in and out of the cable to progress through the course. This is made possible through an advanced internal locking system in the carabiners. Each guest will have 2 carabiners connected to bungee-style lanyards on their harness. The internal locking system makes it impossible to clip out of both at the same time, insuring that climbers are connected to the cable of the course at all times.

Explore Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater and fall in love with the mountain town of Evergreen on a day trip from Denver. Gaze across the glacial Echo Lake and witness the dramatic views at 10,600 feet.

The Clear Creek Classic trip offers fun for the whole family with splashy Class II–III rapids. Total activity time is 2 hours and 30 minutes from meet to return. Paddle through the scenic Clear Creek Canyon near Idaho Springs, surrounded by Colorado’s gold rush history and stunning mountain views. This fun, hands-on adventure is ideal for those looking to get wet and enjoy the outdoors without extreme intensity. Paddling is required, and all trips include safety orientation, paddle instruction, and gear (PFD, helmet, and wetsuit rentals available). A great way to cool off and experience Colorado’s whitewater!

Join us for a visit to the world-famous Red Rocks Amphitheater, and catch stunning views from Lookout Mountain before strolling through the charming Western town of Golden.

Clear Creek is one of the best whitewater rafting rivers in Colorado, and for great reasons. The canyon offers all levels of whitewater challenge, and easy access. The setting includes scenic flats, mining ruins, wildlife, and, of course, exciting whitewater flowing over rocks. Nearby is Idaho Springs, where the gold rush began. One of the first cities founded in Colorado, in 1859, this quaint town is nestled in the foothills of some of Colorado’s best mountains and holds a unique place in the state’s history. As the place where the Colorado Gold Rush started, this little town holds a lot of secrets, including one of the best river rafting areas in the State! Conveniently located about 30 minutes West of Denver, and close to Breckenridge, Silverthorne, Dillon, and Winter Park, Clear Creek has rafting trip options for varying ability and experience levels.

Experience a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure along the Clear Creek in Denver, suitable for all levels of ability. Experience the rush of conquering class I-II rapids with your crew.

Embark on an exhilarating whitewater rafting adventure on Clear Creek, just 30 minutes from Denver. This intermediate trip offers over 3 hours on the water, navigating continuous Class III–IV rapids that challenge and thrill. You'll tackle notable rapids such as “Nomad,” “Fall River,” “Deliverance,” and the formidable “Outer Limits,” all set against the stunning backdrop of Clear Creek Canyon. Midway through the journey, enjoy a well-deserved, deli-style riverside lunch, providing a moment to relax and take in the surrounding natural beauty. Our guides average 5 years of experience and all necessary personal equipment is included: personal flotation devices, helmets, and wetsuits. This trip is perfect for adventure seekers aged 15 and up, seeking a memorable rafting experience close to Denver.

Experience a fun, splashy, and exciting introduction to whitewater rafting on Clear Creek, perfect for families and first-timers!

Clear Creek is one of the best whitewater rafting rivers in Colorado, and for great reasons. The canyon offers all levels of whitewater challenge, and easy access. The setting includes scenic flats, mining ruins, wildlife, and, of course, exciting whitewater flowing over rocks. Nearby is Idaho Springs, where the gold rush began. One of the first cities founded in Colorado, in 1859, this quaint town is nestled in the foothills of some of Colorado’s best mountains and holds a unique place in the state’s history. As the place where the Colorado Gold Rush started, this little town holds a lot of secrets, including one of the best river rafting areas in the State! Conveniently located about 30 minutes West of Denver, and close to Breckenridge, Silverthorne, Dillon, and Winter Park, Clear Creek has rafting trip options for varying ability and experience levels.

Adventure down Class 2-3 rapids in this 3 hour whitewater rafting tour! Whether you are a first time rafter or traveling with kids or family, this trip showcases Clear Creek's exciting natural flow!

Explore the beauty of Clear Creek Canyon while learning the fundamentals of fly-fishing: casting, wading, reading water, trout habits, pattern selection, and catching fish!

Head to the beautiful Clear Creek in Denver for an intermediate level whitewater rafting experience. Experience stunning natural scenery as you take on the challenge of these class III - IV rapids.

Clear Creek is one of the best whitewater rafting rivers in Colorado, and for great reasons. The canyon offers all levels of whitewater challenge, and easy access. The setting includes scenic flats, mining ruins, wildlife, and, of course, exciting whitewater flowing over rocks. Nearby is Idaho Springs, where the gold rush began. It is the first city founded in Colorado, in 1859. This quaint town is nestled in the foothills of some of Colorado’s best mountains and holds a unique place in the state’s history. As the place where the Colorado Gold Rush started, this little town holds a lot of secrets, including one of the best river rafting areas in the State! Conveniently located about 30 minutes west of Denver, and close to Breckenridge, Silverthorne, Dillon, and Winter Park, Clear Creek has rafting trip options for varying ability and experience levels.

Conveniently located west of Denver, Clear Creek's beginner run is the perfect introduction to whitewater rafting. Learn to paddle in Class II & III rapids surrounded by mining ruins and wildlife.

We offer an experience that is one of a kind. We have beautiful facilities, fantastic gear and amazing guides! From the minute you arrive to the outpost you'll be greeted with a smile by our front desk staff. After checking in, you'll have the opportunity to browse retail, see photos and make yourself comfortable prior to your gear-up speech. Every detail, from the music to the orientation has been crafted with your experience in mind. We care deeply about your river experience and do everything possible to make sure your river trip with us is the highlight of your summer!

Soak in stunning views up the highest paved road in North America on a trip from Denver. Reach the summit of Mount Blue Sky at 14,265 feet, surrounded by panoramic vistas, wildlife, and wildflowers.

Liquid Descent's Beginner Rafting Trip provides a unique experience during which participants will get their share of light adrenaline, beautiful river scenery, and a glimpse into the history of Idaho Spring's mining history.

Experience the gold and silver boom times of the Wild West on a half-day tour from Denver. Visit a real gold mine, explore historic mining towns, and try your luck at striking it rich.

Middle Clear Creek is one of the greatest beginner rafting runs in the nation. With numerous rapids and historical significance, it is hard to deny the value. Although Clear Creek holds more rapids than most any other run in the US, the rapids of our Middle section are straight-forward and perfect for families with children or anyone else looking for something a bit easier. Rafters will also catch glimpses of Colorado's rich gold mining history and maybe even a miner or two as they splash down this unique stretch of whitewater.

Experience the thrill of conquering raging rapids amidst breathtaking scenery with Upper Clear Creek's half-day rafting adventure.

Embark on an exhilarating 2.5-hour whitewater adventure on Clear Creek, just 30 minutes from Denver. This intermediate rafting trip is perfect for adventurous first timers and seasoned paddlers alike, offering a thrilling ride through continuous Class III–IV rapids. Navigate challenging sections like “Nomad,” “Fall River,” “Deliverance,” and the grand finale, “Outer Limits,” as you descend through the scenic Clear Creek Canyon. The steep gradient and technical maneuvers require active paddling and teamwork, making for an adrenaline filled experience. Our professional guides provide comprehensive safety briefings and all necessary gear, including personal flotation devices, helmets, and wetsuits. After conquering the rapids, enjoy the historic charm of Idaho Springs, a town rich in Colorado's gold mining history. This trip is ideal for those seeking a dynamic and memorable rafting experience close to Denver

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Gold Rush Half-Day Rafting and Zipline Combo. Feel the rush of the gentle rapids as you paddle through scenic canyons and soar above the treetops.

Clear Creek is one of the best whitewater rafting rivers in Colorado, and for great reasons. The canyon offers all levels of whitewater challenge, and easy access. The setting includes scenic flats, mining ruins, wildlife, and, of course, exciting whitewater flowing over rocks. Nearby is Idaho Springs, where the gold rush began. It is the first city founded in Colorado, in 1859. This quaint town is nestled in the foothills of some of Colorado’s best mountains and holds a unique place in the state’s history. As the place where the Colorado Gold Rush started, this little town holds a lot of secrets, including one of the best river rafting areas in the State! Conveniently located about 30 minutes west of Denver, and close to Breckenridge, Silverthorne, Dillon, and Winter Park, Clear Creek has rafting trip options for varying ability and experience levels.

Zoom through the treetops safely on six ziplines with exciting drops in the Rocky Mountains. Take in big mountain views, cross hanging bridges, and enjoy a short hike through the stunning scenery.

Not for the faint of heart, this is one of the most technical and continuous sections of whitewater in the nation. Sections of this run plummet at a rate of over 100 feet per mile. Teamwork and the ability to follow instructions are key to success on this run. Guides will instruct guests how to follow on-water commands and how to stay safe in adverse situations. Swimming skills, although they may not be used, are a must when traveling on this section of Clear Creek.

Discover Clear Creek on this beginner rafting trip in Idaho Springs, just west of Denver. Enjoy easy whitewater rapids and terrific views on this tour that is suitable for first timers and families.

Clear Creek Canyon is unique in the quantity and quality of its rapids. It has more rapids than nearly any other commercially run stretch of whitewater in the nation. It is also free-flowing, meaning that the water levels change throughout the season, offering a variety of experiences. In addition to world-class rafting, it is also the home of the 1859 Gold Rush. Gold is still found in the creek by intrepid miners using pans and dredges. Guests will pass many sites of historical significance related to the Gold Rush while rafting on Clear Creek. Clear Creek is also conveniently located nearby Denver and other surrounding resorts, making it the perfect day-trip excursion.

This trip is for people looking for excitement and adventure and will keep your attention the entire time. This an excellent choice for rafting near Denver that will test your limits.

Experience the best family rafting adventure near Denver on this action‑packed Clear Creek trip! Perfect for beginners and thrill‑seekers alike, this exciting run features 10 lively Class III rapids, including guest favorites like Castle Falls, Mountain Lion, and Mr. Twister. With almost no flat water, you’ll stay engaged from start to finish—actively paddling through waves, splashes, and continuous fun. Your journey flows through the historic mining town of Idaho Springs, known as “Where it All Began.” Along the way, you’ll pass iconic Colorado landmarks, including the legendary Argo Gold Mine & Mill and the charming Charlie Taylor Water Wheel. The adventure begins at the famed Chicago Creek put‑in, the very site where George Jackson discovered gold in 1859—a moment that shaped Colorado’s history. For families, first‑timers, and anyone looking for an approachable yet exciting rafting experience just minutes from Denver, this is the top choice for beginner rafting in Colorado!

Get your ticket for Colorado Adventure Center's Ropes Course in Idaho Springs, an aerial park featuring 60 obstacles and short zip lines with 3 distinct levels of difficulty for people of all ages.

Consistent rapids will keep your attention the entire trip. After a fun warm-up section of unnamed class III rapids, you will drop into Nomad rapid then immediately finding yourself in Fall River rapid. More continuous class III rapids lead you to the 1/4 mile long Phoenix rapid followed immediately by Deliverance hoping you stay in the boat. This section of Clear Creek offers plenty of opportunities for whitewater surfing and then the final rapid, Outer Limits, followed by a fun scenic section through the town of Idaho Springs. This trip is for people looking for excitement and adventure and will keep your attention the entire time.

Enjoy an action-packed adventure on Clear Creek's intermediate whitewater rafting trip with continuous Class III-IV rapids. Enjoy a tour great for first-time rafters or more experienced paddlers.

Our Clear Creek Gold Rush whitewater rafting trip (Class II-III) near Idaho Springs provides a unique introduction to summer in Colorado. If you’re looking for an adventure for a family trip, work event, school event, or scouting trip the Clear Creek Gold Rush is the perfect introduction to beginner whitewater rafting.

Experience the best of both worlds with a combo adventure in Idaho Springs. Feel the adrenaline rush of navigating the rapids of Upper Clear Creek and soar through the air on a zipline.

Our zipline course is built within the natural topography of the Colorado Rockies, nestled above historic town of Idaho Springs and at the base of the Mount Evans Scenic Byway. Explore the cliffside on the six different zip lines, including a dual race line to challenge another member of your group! You'll cross multiple suspended bridges as well while you venture your way back down to our outpost.

Embark on a thrilling adventure high above the Rocky Mountains with the Mount Blue Sky Via Ferrata experience in Idaho Springs, Colorado.

Our exciting class III-IV Upper Clear Creek river rafting trip provides an exciting experience for adventurous first-timers and experienced rafters. This continuous, steep, technical section will keep your paddle moving and your heart thumping as you crash through Class IV rapids such as Phoenix, Nomad, Fall River, and Outer Limits.

Family Fun rafting through the historic gold mining town of Idaho Springs. Adventure through class 2 and 3 whitewater rapids see historical sites and enjoy an active experience only 30 min from Denver

Join us on one of our best family trips, and experience Colorado fun on the river and in the air. From our Idaho Springs outpost, paddle Clear Creek’s best family-friendly whitewater and soar through the trees on our cliffside zipline course.

Soar across 5 separate lines as you experience one of the highest, longest, and most exhilarating high-tower zip line courses with this ziplining adventure in Idaho Springs, near Denver, Colorado.

Package a thrilling zipline tour with the Upper Clear Creek 1/2 Day rafting trip for an adventure of a lifetime! Start off the day on AVA’s Cliffside Zipline Tour. With 6 exciting lines and additional features such as the Jungle Bridge and dual race line, you will be soaring through the trees. Finish your course with an exciting 450 foot line running directly over Chicago Creek and landing back at our outpost. Up next, it's time to raft the thrilling whitewater of the Upper Clear Creek! Starting high in the canyon,  you’ll encounter 30 major rapids on this 8-mile trip dropping an incredible 1,300 vertical feet. This continuous, steep, technical section will keep your paddle moving and your heart thumping as you crash through pulsing, class IV rapids. As you marvel at the beautiful Colorado scenery, keep a lookout for Big Horn Sheep, river otters, deer, and other native wildlife. Either pack a lunch or eat in Idaho Springs between trips.

Experience the thrill of rafting on the Clear Creek on this intermediate trip. Navigate the continuous Class III/IV rapids with the help of your guide and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way.

We provide a unique experience to experience Colorado's rocky mountains at a less frequented part of the day. We operate on clear, mild nights and give guests a variety of beautiful and unique locations that otherwise may have been missed.

Take on the lower Clear Creek's rapids on an advanced whitewater rafting experience in Denver. Admire the scenery as you paddle with your crew through intense sections like Double Knife and Corkscrew.

This is a special trip with only 1 launch per day and we are the only outfitter offering it as a 1/2 day trip! You will start at 8200 ft in the Rocky Mountains, putting on in the natural surroundings of the free flowing snowmelt on Clear Creek in the mining town of Lawson. After warming up in the first mile, you will find yourself in the steep and narrow rapids of Meat and Bones followed by Lumpy's, each is close to a ½ mile long class IV+. Follow that up with our most popular stretch of river, Upper Clear Creek Canyon, filled with continuous class III and IV rapids that include Nomad, Phoenix (named after the Phoenix Gold Mine), and your final rapid, Outer Limits, which is sure to get your attention as you return to Idaho Springs. This is a great way to start your day rafting near Denver!

Escape the city and explore the Rocky Mountains on a day trip from Denver. Drive along the Mount Evans Scenic Byway, see Echo Lake, and look for wildlife like bighorn sheep.

Starting outside of Idaho Springs, near the historic biker bar Kermit’s, made famous by writer Hunter S Thompson, this is the “Classic” Advanced Canyon, following US Route 6 through Clear Creek Canyon Park to Golden. Plunging over Upper and Lower Beaver falls will get your attention but they are just the start. You will go through the steepest section of rapids commercially available in Colorado! Guide Ejector, Double Knife, Hells ½ mile (Hell's Corner and Deep Hell) followed immediately by the Terminators will drop you over 150 vertical feet in less than a mile. This steep, continuous and technical section of Clear Creek boasts an average gradient of over 100 ’ per mile and is the most extreme ½ day whitewater rafting near Denver! If you’re physically fit, know how to swim, have an aggressive attitude, and 15 years old, this is the Colorado rafting trip for you!

Experience the thrill of a 6-line zipline course in Idaho Springs. Race your friends on a dual race line, cross a hanging bridge, and enjoy scenic views of the Rocky Mountains.

Enjoy a full‑day advanced whitewater experience covering every stretch of Clear Creek. Start high in the Rocky Mountains at 8,200 ft, navigating Class IV+ rapids like Meat & Bones and Lumpy’s before powering through continuous Class III–IV rapids in Upper Clear Creek Canyon. Break for a relaxing riverside lunch in Idaho Springs, then continue through fun Class II–III waves in Middle Clear Creek Canyon. Finish strong in Lower Clear Creek Canyon, home to the steepest and most intense whitewater on the river, featuring dramatic drops and Class IV–V rapids such as Guide Ejector, Double Knife, and Hell’s Half Mile. This 18‑mile adventure is designed for fit, confident swimmers ages 15+ seeking the most complete and challenging rafting experience near Denver.