Upper Clear Creek Rafting & Cliffside Zipline — Idaho Springs Half‑Day Adventure
Pair a cliffside zipline with a technical 8‑mile descent on Upper Clear Creek for a high‑adrenaline half‑day. Expect six zipline runs and continuous Class IV whitewater through a narrow Colorado canyon.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear secure footwear
Closed‑toe, lace‑up shoes are required for both zipline platforms and rafting; sandals and crocs are not allowed.
Bring a dry bag
Keep phone, ID, and snacks in a small waterproof bag — crews will help stow it between activities.
Hydrate and pace caffeine
High altitude and physical exertion raise hydration needs; drink water before and between activities to avoid fatigue.
Know weight and age limits
Minimum age 15, minimum weight 50 lbs and maximum 250 lbs for ziplines; disclose exact weights during booking.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the historic Argo Gold Mill ruins and short trail above Idaho Springs for river views.
- •Stop at a local miner‑era cafe on Miner Street for sandwiches and to warm up between activities.
Wildlife
- •Bighorn sheep
- •River otter
Conservation Note
River flows and riparian habitat are sensitive to runoff and recreation; follow guide instructions, carry out trash, and avoid disturbing wildlife or vegetation.
Upper Clear Creek follows corridors shaped by 19th‑century mining and rail development; many canyon access roads and towns grew from that era.
What to Bring
Closed‑toe river shoes or sturdy sneakersEssential
Protects feet on platforms and during launching and exiting the raft.
Synthetic quick‑dry layersEssential
Dries faster than cotton and keeps you warm when wet on the river.
Small waterproof dry bagEssential
Keeps personal items dry during rafting and transit between activities.
Light insulated jacket or fleece
Helpful for cooler spring mornings and wet conditions after rafting.
Common Questions
What is the minimum age and weight for this combo?
Minimum age is 15 years; minimum weight 50 lbs and maximum weight 250 lbs — exact weights are required at booking.
Do I need prior rafting experience?
No formal experience required, but participants must be competent swimmers and able to follow guide instructions; moderate fitness is expected.
Is lunch provided?
Lunch is not included; you can pack a lunch or eat in Idaho Springs between the zipline and rafting portions.
What happens in bad weather?
The operator has a 24‑hour cancellation window for refunds; activities may be rescheduled rather than canceled depending on conditions, but rafting in severe weather may be adjusted for safety.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7 hours
Location
Idaho Springs, Colorado
Difficulty
challenging
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness and core strength recommended; participants should be comfortable swimming and performing paddling commands.
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