RAFTING FAQs

All rafting trips are scheduled to begin at a specific time as indicated on your reservation. For example, if your reservation states that your Half Day Adventure is scheduled for July 21, 2020 from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, then the meeting time is 11:30 AM. If you are part of a group and need a different meeting time, please give us a call at 1-877-945-6605 and we will do our best to accommodate your request.

We offer a variety of rafting trips suitable for all levels of experience. Our family-friendly trips are especially popular and require no previous experience, and children are always welcome. During high water season (early June to mid-July), we can also arrange more adventurous trips for those who are seeking a greater challenge. So no matter what your skill level or interests, we’ve got a trip that’s right for you!

We aim to make your rafting trip a memorable and enjoyable experience by catering to the preferences of each individual guest. Whether you’re looking for maximum whitewater thrills, a chance to splash your friends and family, an educational and scenic tour, or just a relaxing float, we’ve got you covered. Just let us know what you’re in the mood for at the time of your reservation or check-in, and we’ll do our best to customize the trip to suit your needs.

To ensure a pleasant experience, we suggest bringing a swimsuit, non-cotton T-shirts and shorts, a hat, sunglasses with a strap, and sandals with a heel strap or water shoes or old tennis shoes. Sunscreen is a must, and it’s a good idea to bring a bottle of water too. We provide paddle jackets and paddle pants at no charge, and you can also rent neoprene booties for $3.00 or wetsuits for $8.00 if you’d like.

We will provide all the necessary equipment and safety features for your adventure. However, don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a bottle of water. If you’re planning on spending the day in Glenwood, it’s a good idea to bring a change of clothes. To avoid the risk of losing or damaging valuable items, we recommend leaving jewelry, non-waterproof cameras, and watches at home or in a secure location such as your hotel or car. Please note that Blue Sky cannot be held responsible for any lost or damaged articles. For your convenience, we will keep your car keys at our office while you’re out on the water.

We welcome people of all ages and abilities. Children must weigh at least 33-50 pounds, depending on water levels. We offer trips suitable for rafters of all levels, as well as individuals with physical handicaps. If you have questions about whether a particular trip is suitable for children or the elderly, please don’t hesitate to call us at 970-945-6605. 

Unfortunately, pets are not permitted on any of our trips. If you need to make arrangements for your pet while you’re out on the water, we recommend contacting Wonderlust Dogs – Glenwood Springs for day boarding options.

At Hanging Lake Adventure Co-op, we have a gift shop that is stocked with a wide range of items, including t-shirts, river-ready apparel, shorts, sunglasses with straps, snacks, drinks, waterproof cameras, and miscellaneous souvenirs

We are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable trip for all participants. However, due to the inherent risks involved in outdoor adventure activities, we cannot be held responsible for lost or damaged articles or personal injury. Before departing, all participants will be required to sign an Assumption of Risk Agreement. If you are under the age of 18, a parent or guardian will need to sign the agreement on your behalf.

We are proud to have an excellent safety record. Our professional guides are certified in CPR and first aid and have met the state of Colorado’s requirements and additional standards set by our company. They are trained in all aspects of river safety and will provide a thorough safety orientation before your trip. Most of our trips are suitable for families and beginners, as long as you don’t mind getting wet! So don’t hesitate to join us on the water.

We use only the highest quality equipment for all of our trips, including Hyside inflatable rafts (10.5′, 13′ and 16′), NRS Type 3/5 Coast Guard approved life jackets, Carlisle oars and paddles, and helmets. Our 16-foot rafts with oar frames can accommodate 6-9 participants and one certified guide, while our 13-foot rafts can hold 5-6 participants and one guide. Our 10.5′ Mini-Max rafts can hold approximately 4 people and a guide. Rest assured that you will have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable trip with us.

You can make a reservation for one of our trips by phone or online. To ensure availability, especially for groups of 8 or more, we recommend making a reservation in advance. Walk-ins are also welcome, subject to availability. To complete your reservation, we require full payment, which can be made using Apple Pay, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express.

You may cancel up to 12 hours prior to your reservation without any penalty. Any reservation cancelled less than 12 hours before check-in time will be charged 10% of the invoice. “No shows” will be charged the full cost. Simply call our office to modify or cancel your reservation.

Our trips are available daily from around May 1st to late September during each season. Please call for information on April or October rafting as it depends on the water levels and weather conditions.

Request a Guide: If you’re looking for a guide who is safe, experienced, entertaining, great with kids, adventurous, and even attractive, just ask! We’ve got you covered.

Express Your Concerns Early: Don’t wait until you’re on the river to voice any concerns or special requests. Let us know when you make your reservation or check in if you need assistance or if there’s anything we can do to make the trip extra special for someone in your group. We’re happy to accommodate special requests like bringing birthday cakes, wearing special attire, or even searching for wildlife along the way.

Dress for the Occasion: The weather can change quickly on the river, so it’s best to dress in layers. We’re here to help, so feel free to ask us for advice on what to wear during check-in. If you over-dress, you can always take off a layer, but if you don’t bring it with you, you’ll be stuck being cold.

Be On Time: Please arrive at the scheduled departure time, as we can’t hold up the other 40-60 guests for you. Being late and unprepared, such as forgetting sunscreen or wearing work shoes, won’t enhance your experience.

Bring Your Friends: Rafts hold up to 8+ guests, so if you have a smaller group, be prepared to share with others. This can add to the excitement and diversity of the trip. And if you bring a big group of 8 or more, you’ll get a discount!

Free Transportation Included: No need to worry about getting to and from the raft launch and pick-up sites, as we offer complimentary transportation. Plus, if you’re staying in a local accommodation in Glenwood Springs or arriving via Amtrak, we’ll even pick you up with our complimentary shuttle service. Simply give us a call to arrange your pickup!

Capture the Moment: Professional grade photos of each raft on every trip are captures, with typically 20-60 shots taken of each raft. After your trip, you’ll be able to view and purchase the photos, which will be displayed immediately. All photos will be available on a private web page, where you can easily share, download, or print them in high resolution with no limitations.

Swimming Not Required: No prior swimming knowledge is needed for our Half Day Rafting Trip. However, as you may get splashed, if you’re apprehensive about being in the water, we suggest booking a “float trip.” Please let your guide know if you are unable to swim.

Lunch is only provided for our Full Day Raft Trips. If you’re on a Half Day trip, you’re welcome to bring your own snacks or purchase from our gift shop. For groups of 20 or more people, we also offer custom catering at reasonable prices.

Weather Policy: Although we never cancel trips due to inclement weather such as rain, hail, or snow, you have the option to cancel your trip at any time, including right before departure, without incurring any fees due to weather conditions.

Your guide will strive to make your adventure both fun and safe, and they will appreciate being tipped if you feel they have done a good job. Although tipping is not mandatory, it is always appreciated if you choose to do so. Please note that tipping is never expected but is a way to show your gratitude for the guide’s efforts.