Whitewater rafting the Colorado River’s Shoshone stretch is perfect for visitors to the Vail area and for Vail locals alike. This trip will take you through the gorgeous Glenwood Canyon, where rock walls tower above the river and hot springs abound in the lower section. Along with amazing views, Shoshone offers a mile of Class III rapids, followed by an incredibly scenic float.
This stretch of river is a great introduction to whitewater rafting, and it’s fun for all ages. While floating Shoshone’s mild sections, you’ll encounter numerous spots to take a swim on hot days or start a water fight with other boats. When this rafting trip is over, you’ll enjoy snacks served at the Timberline Tours private take-out. See trip options for variations on the classic Shoshone trip.
Shoshone Whitewater Rafting Trip Options:
Timberline Tours offers these Shoshone trip options and variations that allow you to choose the best trip for your crew:
Skip the Rapids: Scenic Float (AM ONLY)
Looking for a trip on the milder side? The Shoshone run is rated Class II if rafters join the trip at Grizzly Creek, one mile below the regular starting point at the Shoshone power plant. This option allows rafters to skip the Class III rapids but still join in on the scenic float section of the trip.
Double Thriller: Two Times the Rapids (PM ONLY)
If you’re looking for a bit more intensity on the Shoshone rapids, we offer the Double Thriller, which is an afternoon-only trip offered daily. Run the one-mile stretch of Class III rapids two times! Our guides make sure this trip is filled with excitement by running the rapids differently each time, so you can try going through backwards or even spinning in a circle.
What to expect on a Shoshone Whitewater Trip
Our drivers will pick you up or you can drive yourself to our Eagle boathouse. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your raft guides who will help you get suited up in our top-of-the-line river gear including wetsuits, helmets, splash jackets, life jackets and neoprene footwear. You’ll take your dry clothes with you for a 25- minute ride to the put-in. To keep you entertained on the ride, your guides will discuss everything you need to know about river safety.
Within minutes of launching on Shoshone, you’ll be paddling in splashy Class III rapids. After a mile of rapids, the tempo changes and you can kick back and enjoy a scenic float through Glenwood Canyon. Your dry clothes and lunch will be waiting for you at the take out for the morning trip…a snack and refreshments for the afternoon trip. Photos of your group paddling the rapids will be available to view and purchase. After the snack we’ll drive you back to the boathouse or your lodging.
BOOK NOW:
AM RAFTING
CALL US:
970.476.1414
Rating:
AM Shoshone:
Class III (Moderate, family-friendly)
AM Skip the Rapids:
Class II (Scenic, splashy float)
PM Double Thriller:
Class III (Moderate, family-friendly)
Price:
AM trips:
Lunch included
$170 adult (13+),
$150 youth (7-12),
$130 child (6 & under)
+ 12% land use fee
PM Double Thriller:
$150 adult (13+),
$130 youth (7-12),
+ 12% land use fee
Approximate Door-to-Door Time:
AM trips: 8:30a-3:00p
PM Double Thriller: 1:30-5:00p
These times include driving, check-in, gear-up, and training. Time on the river may vary.
Season:
July through September
Put In:
Shoshone
Take Out:
Private Timberline Tours takeout in West Glenwood Springs
Minimum age and weight:
AM Shoshone:
8 years old and at least 50 pounds
AM Skip the Rapids:
6-8 years old and at least 30 pounds
PM Double Thriller:
12 years old and at least 80 pounds
Note: Age and weight minimums can vary depending on water level. Please call us to discuss closer to your trip date.
Included:
AM trips: Lunch served at Timberline’s private takeout.
All trips:
Paddling & safety training.
Required rafting gear.
Learn More
What to Wear
Rafting Safety
Paddling Tips
Rafting History: Vail
River Ratings