Cache la Poudre River Rafting

The name Cache La Poudre means "Hiding Place of Powder." In the 1820's, French fur trappers were caught in a blizzard. Here, they buried their gunpowder in a hiding place along the banks of the river to lighten their load.

Today, the Cache La Poudre River is the only designated National Wild and Scenic River in the United States, offering a protected and unspoiled environment for water activities. The river starts in Rocky Mountain National Park along the Continental Divide and runs through Roosevelt National Forest, just northwest from Fort Collins and an hour drive from Denver. Many come between May and August to enjoy the rafting and kayaking adventures that this river offers. The intensity of the rapids vary from intermediate to advanced intermediate, offering class II, III, and IV rapids.

Kayakers are familiar with the challenging runs of the upper stretches of the Cache La Poudre River. On the lower part of the river, there is almost continuous whitewater with technical rapids, steep drops and beautiful scenery. Class IV+ rapids along Mishawaka and Pineview Falls provide a rush of adrenaline for experienced whitewater rafters. Family oriented trips also start below the falls, offering a more relaxed whitewater experience.

The International Rapid Rating Scale:

• Class I: Easy. Fast moving water with riffles, small waves.
• Class II: Novice. Straightforward rapids, wide, clear channels.
• Class III: Intermediate. Rapids, moderate, irregular waves.
• Class IV: Advanced. Intense, powerful rapids, precise boat handling.
• Class V: Expert. Long, obstructed, violent rapids.

More Activities & Information

Poudre River Canyon - includes Bellvue, Glendevey, La Porte & Rustic
Estes Park - includes Drake

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