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Colorado Adventure Packages and Things to Do in Salida

Activities to Pair with the Best Whitewater Rafting in Colorado

One of the best parts about rafting with us at Independent Whitewater is that we’re ideally located in the town of Salida, providing us with convenient access to the Arkansas River, surrounding mountains, and downtown Salida making a full day of adventures all that much easier to enjoy. You won’t have to go far to find the quintessential Colorado adventure here. Salida is the perfect destination to enjoy some of Colorado’s best rafting, complimented further by other amazing things to do.

While on the river, you’ll enjoy staggering views of the beautiful Browns Canyon National Monument as you meander downstream during your rafting adventure. The Arkansas River is one of the best rivers for whitewater rafting in the world. It has it all: grandiose views, crystal clear and golden speckled waters, numerous routes of varying difficulty, and the opportunity for other activities like kayaking, swimming, floating, and fishing. As a result, the Arkansas River is a top destination for rafters of any ability level spanning first-time rafters and seasoned professionals.

Back on land, you won’t have to go far to find adventure. Salida is often referred to as the crown jewel of the Rockies, being surrounded by 14,000-foot peaks, zipline and aerial adventures, numerous hiking and mountain biking trails, camping, and an endless list of fun outdoor activities. Downhill mountain biking has become even more popular in recent years, as our local trail system continues to grow (namely at Arkansas hills and Methodist Mountain) with over 175 trails.

In town, you’ll find everything you need to refuel and connect alongside great company. Salida boasts an impressive “beach scene” as it butts up against the mighty Arkansas River, making it easy to find a fun place to eat or drink right on the water. We also have our own restaurant, the Drift In Bar & Grill located on the water’s edge at our home base. On weekends through the summer, the city hosts a myriad of live music and festivals adding further to the fun. Before you head back to the hotel for the night, don’t forget to dip into one of the region’s all-natural hot spring sites. If a hotel or lodge isn’t your cup of tea, camping is also easy to find around our region. If you’re in search of a place to camp near town, feel free to call us for referrals.

Adventure Packages: Ziplining and More

$165.00

Combine our Challenge Course and Zipline adventures for a full day of fun. The Canyon Aerial Course (CAC) complex is an amazing structure tucked into the Lost Canyon. The Lost Canyon Zipline Tour is suitable for singles, couples, and families who wish to play together and create lasting memories.

If a Colorado rafting adventure isn’t quite enough, you can also layer on additional activities to your trip. All of our adventures are completely customizable giving you the ability to plan out your dream trip. We’re happy to offer both horseback riding and ziplining as options to add in to any rafting trip. The 7 Cable Zipline Tour consists of 6 exciting, high flying cable rides between 200-700’ in length and a practice zip line so you can work your way up. 

Our horseback rides are available for beginner to advanced level riders and journey through some of Colorado’s most breathtaking scenery and regions. Ride along the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains—Colorado’s most dense collection of 14,000-ers—and get amazing views of the Crestone Peaks, expansive San Luis Valley, and Great Sand Dunes National Park.

Whichever experience you choose, we can fully tailor your experience to your trip specifications. Give us a call to start planning your trip today!