We went rafting with Independent Whitewater in Salida, CO, and it was hands down the highlight of our trip. We had small children with us, and the entire team made us feel completely safe and well taken care of. Our guide, Free, was amazing--super knowledgeable, calm, and hilarious. He made the whole experience fun and stress-free for everyone, including the kids. The trip had just the right mix of adventure and comfort, and the scenery was incredible. Can't recommend Independent Whitewater enough, especially if you're bringing young kids. Ask for Free--you won't regret it! read more

Great company! So much fun!! Deegan was the best guide and shout out to Ellis for the singing! read more

Loved our trip down the canyon with Jade. She was so knowledgeable, fun, and able to maneuver us through the rocks flawlessly. We loved it. Thank you awesome Jade! You're the best. read more

Two Years, Two Epic Trips! We just finished our second year in a row rafting with Independent Whitewater, and once again--unforgettable! Our first trip was with Cole, who handled a raft flip like some kind of river superhero. He flipped the raft solo and pulled a guy twice his weight back in without missing a beat. Pure adrenaline and total professionalism. This year we had Jade--her raft didn't flip, but she still jumped in to help other rafters (even ones from different groups!). Cool under pressure, totally in control. But the best part? The vibe. Once you're off the river, you're treated like family. Everyone at Independent Whitewater is welcoming, fun, and seriously skilled. If you're rafting anywhere near Salida or Buena Vista, go with Independent. We trust this crew completely--and we'll definitely be back for year three! Eric S. read more

We recently did the 1/2 day Brown's Canyon trip and had an excellent experience! There were 8 of us and our guides, Lori and Amelia were wonderful. They helped us all feel really comfortable and took care of all our needs from the moment we checked in until we were back to their facility. They were extremely professional, knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. The trip itself is amazing! It is a beautiful canyon and scenery and the rapids were enough to get your adrenaline going but not too scary for the novices in our group. This is a great family adventure and a great company. Can't recommend Independent Whitewater highly enough!! read more

I was nervous going on a half day trip, fearing I would fall out and not be able to get back in. But the prep with gear, safety talk (which was funny as well as educational), and a few private words with our guide settled my fears a bit. Our group was 24 people so we split into 5 boats, but stayed together on the river. It seemed to be a hassle to do it that way when our TL, Grant, stopped to help some people who had fallen out of their boat when they weren't with us. We were beached for about 30 minutes for that. But I soon understood why you stay together as I did tumble out of our boat on a rapid. Our amazing guide Quinn had mentioned to stay left on this rapid if you fall out, and I did just that. I found a spot to wedge myself in the rocks and patiently waited for help. Within a minute or so there was a calm voice behind me explaining that I was going to be pulled out of the water, and then I was. There were 3 guides there making sure I was ok and helping me back to the boat. They stayed calm, cool and collected so I did as well. Special thanks to Quinn, Grant and Cory (I think- the man with the amazing red curls) for being fun and entertaining and professional. read more

Easy to book a reservation, super friendly staff, the trip went completely smooth. We had a perfect day out on the river with Free. He made our entire trip such a blast. His knowledge, recommendations and overall vibe left us with big smiles on our faces. Thank you Free! We will be heading back here next year for sure. Cheers! read more

What a great company this is! Two friends and I went on the half-day Brown's Canyon raft trip in late July. It was fantastic! The online sign-up process was simple and straightforward. The preparation at the company HQ company was organized and thorough. Everyone who worked there seemed to be in a great mood. Jared was our guide and he was awesome. He was high-energy and super informative about the river and Brown's Canyon National Monument along the way. I was especially impressed with the preferential treatment he gave two young boys on our raft. He was always trying to keep their excitement level up and asking them to sit up front for the big waves. They loved it. I think that my rafting experience with IW has spoiled me. I can't imagine booking with anyone else in the future on the Arkansas River. read more

Our raft guide, Grant kept us safe and had a lot of fun. He taught us about the area and I really enjoyed the rock names along the way. Great time, beautiful weather! read more

Ellis was an amazing Guide! We had such a phenomenal Time! An unforgettable experience and we will be doing it again!

We just got done doing the early bird tour and we had a blast!! Our tour guide Nick was fantastic she was so fun and funny the whole time! Definitely recommend doing this with either a small or large group!! Life time memories and great pics Don't forget to tip your guide!! Epic trip!! read more

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We had a very good time. This trip was so cool and we stayed in the boat (the girl in front of me with the yellow helmet was not so lucky lol) Hannah, Dan and I jumped into the river at about the halfway point and it was very exhilarating. If you go up definitely get the wetsuits booties and splash jackets! read more

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Our whitewater rafting adventure was part of a hiking/biking/rafting/ziplining vacation, and was by far my favorite activity. They got our group of 5 outfitted efficiently and into the rapids quickly. Do yourself a favor and rent their water booties which are reasonably-priced and keep your feet safe and your own shoes dry. And if you're lucky, you'll get to meet Wesson, who is a perfect ambassador and sweetest of the black labs. James (who is Wesson's human) was a most-excellent guide. He had an expansive knowledge of not only rafting, but of the river. He made sure we not only had a blast, but were safe doing it. Would definitely go down the river with this outfit again. read more

Independent Whitewater - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Salida, Colorado

IWW is a really cool small business ,with many options of rafting adventure available. They will also customize trips for private groups! They offer some great photographs of each groups adventure for a fee as well . But it's all about the memories, right ? And they are great action shots! IWW's prices are extremely competitive. They also are a reasonably priced CAMPGROUND. With a RIVERSIDE FOOD & BAR concession, The Drift Inn ! Pretty much a Rual Resort! We love to tube from the boat ramp to the bar , reward ourselves with a refreshment, and circle back to the ramp to re-launch tubes! A great way to stay cool ,relax and be pampered with excellent drinks and snacks , while riverside camping . The sound of the River as you fall asleep at night is so amazing. We have stayed here for many summer camp outs, over the years , & always feel welcomed . An amazing value& experience every time. read more

Great outfit. I feel we got the best guides with Kiwi and Tigger Kitty (Kiwi seriously you don't know who the Tiger King is????) I provided the days entertainment by gracefully cartwheeling out, hope our gratuity covered the beer run I caused. Wasn't worried one moment. Browns Canyon is a safe family friendly run and my brief swim felt good, I was back in safely in a jiffy. Extra treat this day we were allowed to stop and some jumped off a cliff. That was a highlight for the 9yr old boy in our party! Some of our party have been on previous Numbers and Royal Gorge with Independent. Though they thought this was a bit calm in comparison, it was the one we could take the 9yr old on and there were quite a few rapids between the calms to enjoy. Fun family day and well done! read more

Independent Whitewater - Tiger Kitty (Jared) expertly guides through Zoom Flume Browns Canyon - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Salida, Colorado

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Five stars for Independent Whitewater! The team did a fantastic job in helping make sure my family had the best trip. Our guide, James, was very knowledgeable and capable during the trip through Browns Canyon. He took excellent lines through the various rapids on the Arkansas River and answered all of our questions. We had a lot of confidence with James as our captain and appreciated the IW team. Thank you, and we will be back in the future! read more

We had an amazing raft ride! Elliot was amazing, reviewed safety precautions in the river, he was so knowledgeable, and a kind and fun guide! Would recommend him to anyone!! read more

We had a great time. The process to get on and off the river was quick and efficient. The time on the River was fun and having the advantage of getting a few extra rapids set this company apart. read more

We had a fun rafting trip! Jade was our guide and she was great. We got to go longer over two extra sets of rapids that other rafting companies don't do. Overall really fun experience. 5 stars! read more

Our raft guide, Jay, was fantastic. We had high and fast water, and Jay's competence was obvious. He knew just what to do to ensure we had a great time, but also stayed safe. Friendly, knowledgeable, and a fantastic trip. This company offers two extra rapids beyond where the others go - those were the best! read more

The trip was very nice. Mack was our tour guide and he was very friendly and very knowledgeable. I would 100% come back and request him be our guide. The experience was absolutely with the money! **** Edit Did the Brown's Canyon trip with Jade. This was exciting and amazing and well worth the money! The rapids were great and the trip beautiful! Jade was awesome and helped make the trip even better! read more

Elliot was our guide and he was a hoot. Great rafting trip. We were able to go to additional miles than all other rafting companies. Return trip on the bus was only five minutes. They've been in business for a while. I know what they're doing. Our rafting guy was funny and knew his stuff. read more

Incredible experience. James is an expert guide, very friendly and knowledgeable. He is also knows the history and geography of the region, making for some fascinating conversation between the rapids. Also the company went way above and beyond for us, helping us to book the right trip. They never fail to call you back when you leave a message. IW is the best! read more

We spent a half day on a rafting trip with Corey as our rafting guide. He did such a wonderful job of helping us navigate incredible rapids in Brown's Canyon. We had our nine year old boy and 13-year-old girl with us and he was very engaging throughout the entire trip. He told us fun stories and pointed out different names of rock formations. There was a ton of laughter and hard work along the way. We were also very appreciative that Corey took safety seriously and even double checked our equipment along the way. We would highly recommend both this company and Corey specifically for any of your outdoor adventures! read more

Very good. Jade, our raft captain, was superb. She knew the river and where to steer the raft. The bonus part of the trip is icing on the cake. The private land pickup is really nice since you do not have all the congestion at the public takeout. read more

I am so glad my first white water rafting experience was with these folks!!!! I had an AMAZING 2.5 hour trip through country that is so beautiful we have a date to see 5 acres on the river tomorrow! If we buy that lot and build a house, we will have these people to thank because I never would have seen that exquisite area otherwise. I am looking forward to white water rafting again!!!!! Update... we bought the lot on the river. You guys will be welcome to hang out there. There were only 2 river lots for sale in the whole valley and we got the big one due to you taking us through some of the most beautiful country I have ever seen! read more

Independent Whitewater - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Salida, Colorado

The best tour with fun guides. It's the longest half day tour in the area because they get to pull out on private land that the other companies don't get to use. You get to hit the famous Seidels suckhole!! Definitely recommend if you want to raft in Salida. If it's hot take water (nalgene bottle with the loop to tie it down) and extra sunscreen. It's several hours on the river and you'll be happy you brought it. read more

Independent Whitewater - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Salida, Colorado

Took the Bonus Browns Canyon Half-Day trip, had a great time! Our raft guide, Jared, was super fun, upbeat , positive energy. Went in June, so water levels were high, sat in front and had some very invigorating and thrilling splashes. Would recommend this outfitter, also especially because of the extra bonus trip length, was worth it! read more

Independent Whitewater - Bonus Browns Canyon Half-Day with Jared - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Salida, Colorado

We had such a beautiful float along a gentle part of the Arkansas with James as our guide. He was professional, safe, and impressively knowledgeable about the area. It was my 9 year old daughter and I and we couldn't have asked for a better afternoon. Our guide was great with my daughter, safe with our trip, and all around very professional. I highly recommend Independent Whitewater if you want simplicity, beauty, and a safe, fun whitewater experience!! read more

Rafting guide Joe was an amazing lead host! And rafting guide, Cam was also awesome! They took my party which was comprised of 8 men down the Arkansas in 2 boats and we had a blast. Would give 10 stars if I could. Can't wait to come back! read more

Independent Whitewater - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Salida, Colorado

At first we were a little skeptical of this place but we decided to give it a try and it ended up being really fun! Our guide laurie (don't know if I spelled that right) got us through the whole thing without anyone falling out overall really great I would recommend. read more

Independent Whitewater - Us rafting - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Salida, Colorado

Wonderful company! We had an amazing time!!! Our guide Zack was fun and great! And very knowledgeable!! read more

Independent Whitewater - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Salida, Colorado

If you're thinking of booking a whitewater trip on the Arkansas river......USE INDEPENDENT WHITEWATER!!! A buddy did the research on the best company to use, and I'm so glad we needed up with Independent. The company was professional from the moment we arrived through the end of the trip, and our guides made the entire experience soo much fun. We had two boats, and both of our groups were arguing vehemently with the other about which guide was better ;) There were other companies that we encountered along the way that made me really glad we didn't use them - several were so big that they just herded everyone along like cattle and have huge floating groups. We only had two boats in our party. Others didn't even let the people paddle their own boats, and others booked a short trip as a "full day" and intentionally made their paddlers go slow to draw out the trip. Our guides had us rocking full tilt, and we had such an amazing time the entire day. We did the day trip+, which I highly recommend. This gives you the best experience on the river.....26 miles of fun & a chance to shoot all of the rapids. We stopped for a great lunch in between, and every person on our trip (from 12yrs old to 39) couldn't stop talking about how much fun we had. read more

Great trip!! The staff/river guide (Bible) are top notch!! All five in our group really enjoyed and appreciated all Bible did to make our trip unforgettable. Thank you and we will be back!!! Cheers read more

Great company to raft with! Very flexible and accommodating when I needed to reschedule my dates. Had Bible as a guide and he was great! Highly recommend and I look forward to book a rafting trip with them again. read more

We went on the morning Browns Canyon trip with our guide Kiwi this past week and had a blast! Our guide was informative, funny, and a great rafting guide. Everyone in the office was really friendly as well. What an awesome trip! We would definitely use this company again. ps- Twin Falls is the best! read more

Nic was our guide and she was fantastic! We thoroughly enjoyed our trip. Nic's knowledge of the area was greatness. She is a total Rockstar! Everyone at the company was friendly and helpful and we absolutely recommend them. read more

We throughly enjoyed our time out on the river with Jeremy! He made rafting down class 3 rapids such a smooth experience for us first timers! All the guides were super friendly, knowledgeable, and entertaining from start to finish! They really brought the energy for my whole group! Highly recommend! read more

Grant was a great guide! A lot of useful information and discussion that we really enjoyed during our 4 hours with him! Safe, informative, fun and the best guide out there! read more

These guys rock! The first time I rafted with them was three years ago with young kids ( 3 under the age of 13) and we had a stellar experience in Brown's Canyon. I came back with girlfriends this summer and we had a great time. Personable and solid river guides, excellent service and preparation and a really exciting experience. Book with Independent Whitewater and you'll have a good experience - go with the big corporate guys and you'll probably be disappointed. You get MORE river with these guys ( they have private property access), personable and experienced leadership and jovial hosting. The food truck at the end of the river run was a nice addition. read more