Arkansas River Rafting near Salida and Buena Vista

The Arkansas River is the heart of the recreation paradise that encompasses Salida and Buena Vista. The Arkansas River is a key player in the history and folklore of the area. Trade route for native Ute Indians, early explorers, trappers and miners, the Arkansas River once served as the dividing line between the US and Mexico. Each mile spent on the river takes you farther from civilization than any road ever can.

There is no rushing a river. When you go there, you go at the pace of the water and that pace ties you into a flow that is older than life on this planet. Acceptance of that pace, even for a day, changes us, reminds us of other rhythms beyond the sound of our own heartbeats. - Jeff Rennicke, River Days: Travels on Western Rivers

Ride the rapids. The Upper Arkansas River is the birthplace of commercial rafting and an Arkansas River Rafting Trip is not to be missed. Browns Canyon is located between Buena Vista and Salida and is one of the most popular rafting trips in the country. Throughout the years, the Arkansas River’s moods may change from day to day but the thrill factor and spectacular scenery remain constant. Either way you’ll laugh, you’ll scream – sometimes at the same time. Expert and entertaining raft guides make the skill and subtle nuances of navigating a wild and unruly river seem as easy as riding a bike. Arkansas River Rafting guests can choose to take destiny into their own hands and help paddle or leave the driving to the guide who will row, row, row the boat down the river. Arkansas River rafing outfitters offer half-, full- and multi-day trips with all the necessary gear and food.

DIAMOND ANNIVERSARY The Blue Paddle FIBArk Whitewater Festival June 12–15, 2008 turns 60 this year. Attracting the best of past, present and future Olympic and world champion kayakers, FIBArk on-water race tradition includes downriver, slalom, rodeo and the zany Hooligan handmade watercraft race. Over the years, FIBArk has grown to become a multi-sport outdoor festival with running and bike races, a skateboard comp, crazy river dog fetching extravaganza, not to mention non stop free music. It’s the people’s whitewater festival, brought about by a barroom bet between two guys way back in 1949. Admission is free. Kids are more than welcome. For details visit FIBArk.com.

Paddlefest/River Rally Weekend, May 17-18, 2008. A paddlepalooza of trying, buying, selling, swapping, learning, volunteering and rubbing elbows with leading kayak manufacturers and world-class boaters. Party atmosphere includes movies, music and frothy libations.

Town parks. Both Salida and Buena Vista provide sweet public parks with picnic tables and riverside trails. The amphitheater at Salida’s Riverside Park hosts concerts, special events and movies throughout the summer.

Camp or picnic on the river. You don’t have to raft, kayak or fish to enjoy the Arkansas. There is nothing like the mesmerizing sound of the river to bring a sense of calm to over-scheduled lives. The Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area makes it easy to get up close and personal with the river thanks in large part to the twin goals of stewardship and accessible adventure. Low-cost day and overnight camping fees can be paid at self-service dispensers on site. Campgrounds provide a mix of pull-through RV hookups, tent sites and handicap accessible facilities. See map on page 44 - 45 for locations. Visit parks.state.co.us for more information and online reservations or stop by the AHRA headquarters in downtown Salida near the Coors Boat Ramp at Sackett and G streets.

Arkansas River rafting map courtesy of AllAboutRivers.com