Colorado River & Roaring Fork River Rafting Maps

Discover what makes this place special.

From whitewater rafting to stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, and inflatable kayaking, the Colorado River and Roaring Fork River provide endless river recreation opportunities. When planning for a river adventure, knowing what to expect around the next bend is paramount for a safe and enjoyable trip. 

After you find your ideal put-in and take-out location for the optimal length of your trip, familiarizing yourself with the rapids and features you’ll face is the best next step in your planning. We’ve created a handy map of the two rivers in the Glenwood Springs area to help you feel as comfortable as possible navigating your way downstream. Before hitting the river, be sure to closely review (and even print) our helpful Colorado River rapids map and Roaring Fork River map.

The most common stretch of the Colorado River that recreational boaters use is the stretch between the Shoshone Rapids and New Castle. This accessible area offers several unmarked river put-in and take-out locations along the way and provides lots of options for time spent out on the river and seasonal water flows.  The Shoshone Rapids are just over a mile and a half and offer class III-IV (class IV during high water) rapids. This stretch is short, but technical with nine named rapids and is only recommended for experienced boaters. If you’re feeling unsure about your abilities or want to scout the rapids from water level, consider a commercial rafting trip with Defiance Rafting Company, and one of our awesome River Pros will safely guide you down the Shoshone stretch and beyond. Our handy-dandy river map names all of the Shoshone Rapids and other river features along the way on the Colorado River. According to legend, the Shoshone Rapids, Tuttle’s Tumble and Marty’s Dinner are named after local raft guides, and the other names are according to Defiance Rafting Company and its sister company Defiance River Outfitters. 

Another notable section that is worth mentioning is the natural hot springs that can be found during lower water levels. You’ll find this local gem river left after Horseshoe Bend. This is a great spot to kick back and relax with the other local wildlife. These natural hot springs are what feed the popular Glenwood Hot Springs Pool and Iron Mountain Hot Springs in Glenwood Springs.

Whether you’re planning a day trip or a multi-day trip on the river, we can outfit you with a Colorado River raft rental. Give us a call, and we’ll connect you with Defiance River Concierge to discuss your trip plans and help tie up any loose ends you may have.

And if easy peasy, lemon squeezy is your goal or you’re not up for the challenge of navigating the river yourself, we can safely get you on the water on a Glenwood Springs whitewater rafting trip at Defiance Rafting Company.

See you on the river!