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Eagle River

Vail Valley’s Closest Whitewater Rafting Adventure

The Eagle River Whitewater Rafting

Experience one of Colorado’s most exciting early-season rafting destinations — the Eagle River, a classic Rocky Mountain whitewater run flowing right through the Vail Valley. Just minutes from Vail and Beaver Creek, this river combines beautiful alpine scenery, abundant wildlife, and thrilling Class III–IV rapids depending on the section and season.

The Eagle River rafting season runs primarily from May through early July, fueled by snowmelt from the surrounding 13,000-foot peaks. That means powerful flows, splashy rapids, and the unmistakable excitement of spring in the Rockies. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly adventure or an adrenaline-pumping challenge, the Eagle delivers pure Colorado whitewater fun close to your resort.

Why Raft the Eagle River

  • Closest whitewater rafting to Vail and Beaver Creek
  • Stunning mountain scenery and wildlife sightings
  • Exciting early-season flows fueled by spring snowmelt
  • Options for both families and advanced paddlers
  • Guided by expert local rafting professionals

Trips Available on the Eagle River

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Lower Eagle River

While whitewater rafting the Lower Eagle River, you’ll enjoy the Vail area’s best early season Class III trip. Beautiful, family-friendly, great Colorado wildlife sightings, and scenic, the Lower Eagle River runs close to Vail and Beaver Creek, Colorado so you’ll be able to enjoy whitewater rafting close to your lodging and still have time for other activities. This splashy Vail whitewater rafting trip is appropriate for people who are looking for a whitewater rafting adventure at a moderate activity level.

  • Class III (Moderate intensity, family-friendly)
  • Morning Trip: Approx 9:00am
  • Afternoon Trip: Approx 1:00pm
  • Time on River: 1 1/2 Hours
  • Base Price: Includes Refreshments
  • $130 Adults
  • $110 Kids 12 and under
  • (Minimum age: 8 years old or 50 lbs)
  • +12% Land use fee
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colorado-river-shoshone-rapids-1-14afbbc4 Eagle River Rafting | Vail & Beaver Creek Whitewater Adventures

Dowd Chute Upper Eagle

Who knew there could be so much excitement so close to home! Running right through the heart of the Vail Valley, Dowd Chute on the Upper Eagle, is the closest section of active, exciting whitewater to Vail. Availability of this classic stretch of water is usually limited to the earlier part of the season and is determined by current water levels on the river. Activity levels are higher on these trips and guests should be comfortable swimmers.

  • Class IV - High to Moderate activity level
  • Time of Year: May through early July
  • Morning Trip: Approx 9:00am
  • Afternoon Trip: Approx 1:00pm
  • Time on River: 1 1/2 Hours
  • AM & PM Trip: Includes Refreshments
  • Base Price: $145 Adult
  • Minimum age: 16 years old
  • 12% land use fee
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IMPORTANT: A 12% land and water use fee will be added to all trips. Wetsuits, booties, and splash tops are not included on this trip but are available for rent.