Which trip is best for my group?
Most important is to pick a trip that suits the entire group's abilities mentally (people have to be comfortable with the challenge that faces them) as well as physically. Keep in mind oar boats are for the people in your group who just want to hang on and let the guide do the work and for younger children. Paddleboats are for the people who want to be part of the action and paddle along with the guide. The most popular trips, for large groups of first time paddlers with varying ability levels, are Browns Canyon, Narrows and Clear Creek Intermediate. These trips are safe and exciting enough for most all ages and abilities (class 3-4). If everyone in your group is in good physical shape, knows how to swim and has paddling experience, the Royal Gorge, Number's, and Clear Creek Advanced trips, are some of the most exciting and challenging whitewater sections in the country (class 4-5). Oar boats are not available in these sections.

How safe is it? Rafting is safer than some every day activities such as golf, skiing or even driving your car. The highly trained staff at Good Times Whitewater Rafting makes sure safety is our #1 concern. All our guides go through extensive river training, basic first aid, CPR, and are certified by the state of Colorado. Keep in mind your chances of falling out of the raft do increase in a paddleboat and on more challenging sections of river. Rafting is an adventure sport and involves a degree of risk on the part of the participant. Although we take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, we cannot be responsible for lost or damaged articles or personal injury. We require you to acknowledge these risks by reading and signing a liability release prior to departure. All children under the age of 18 must have signed a release form from a parent or guardian. It is important for the group to choose a trip within their entire groups' limits.

Do you need to know how to swim? No! (Except on advanced trips) Each person will be fitted with a type 5 coast guard approved lifejacket, to be worn while on the river at all times. This life jacket is designed to float you on your back with your head out of the water. You will be instructed on the proper use of this life jacket in an orientation talk before you depart. It does help to have some knowledge of swimming, especially in some of the more aggressive sections.

When is the best time of the year to go rafting? This depends on what you're interested in. If big exciting water is what your group is looking for, then high water season is the best time. Early - Mid June is traditionally high water season, with rivers running at their peak, it can make for a big ride. Keep in mind some sections may close due to high water conditions. Most people enjoy normal run off-season, which is Mid June to late August. The water stays consistent and the days tend to be sunny and warm with the occasional afternoon rain shower. Water levels and weather are very unpredictable, so book a date that best suits the group and be prepared for the unexpected. There really is no bad time to go rafting anytime you're on the river is a good time to be rafting.

Do we go rafting if it is raining? The weather in the Colorado Rocky Mountains is very unpredictable and varies from mile to mile and minute to minute. Colorado averages over 300 days of sunshine a year. The odds are, the weather will be good. We raft in all weather conditions and have gear available to keep you comfortable even in the worst conditions. Wet suits, booties and splash tops can really make a big difference and make your trip a pleasurable one. Don't forget you're going to get wet rafting, even on the sunniest of days. Weather is not a cause for cancellation.

What should we bring to wear? You are going to get wet, so it's a good idea to be prepared. Try and stay away from cotton clothing, as it tends to get wet and stay wet. Bathing suits and shorts are recommended. Your best bet is loose woven materials such as wool, polypro, fleece, micro fleece, polyester, waterproof jackets, and any other outdoor material that dries fast. Staying dry, or at least drying off fast, is the key to staying warm. Towels don't do you much good because there is no way to keep them dry. There is limited space on the rafts, so you should limit what you bring to what you can wear. We have wet suits, booties, and splash tops available for rent. This equipment is designed to keep you warm and comfortable.

What kind of food is served on full day trips? We don't just serve you a soggy sandwich; we serve you a hot BBQ steak lunch prepared by our guides on the banks of the river. You'll love our top sirloin steak lunch with all the trimmings. We realize that not everyone likes steak, so there are chicken and vegetarian substitutes available. Special meals can be arranged with advanced notice.

What about tipping your guide? Our guides make a base wage similar to a bartender or wait person. General guidelines for tipping would be the same as for a bartender or a waitperson (15-20%). Please do not feel obligated to tip, but if you do believe in tipping, it is a nice way to express your appreciation, and only if you feel you had a safe, fun and informative experience. If you did not have a pleasurable and adequate experience, we would appreciate it if you would please bring it to the attention of our management. Feedback and letters from our guests are greatly appreciated and helps us maintain a high standard of service.

How do I find you? We have 4 different meeting places and 4 offices and we understand that it can get confusing and difficult. Call our office regarding directions to the meeting place that bests suits you and your group. We will be happy to mail, E-mail or fax you directions, along with your confirmation letter. Click HERE for office locations and directions.

What about the altitude? Altitude sickness can be a problem, especially for people coming to the mountains from sea level. To prevent altitude sickness, stay hydrated, drink lots of liquids and stay away from alcohol and caffeine. Altitude sickness can be serious. You may experience an upset stomach, headaches, dizziness or shortness of breath -- please inform your guide so they are aware of your symptoms and can begin treatment.
Click HERE to download altitude sickness information.