A Serene Start to the Adventure

As a marine biologist, my work often takes me to the ocean’s depths, but this time, I found myself drawn to the tranquil yet exhilarating experience of a river float. The Upper Colorado River Float Tour from Kremmling promised a gentle journey through the Gore Range and Mountain Ranchland, and I was eager to explore this new water-based adventure.

Arriving at the Kremmling Outpost, I was greeted by the friendly staff who ensured a smooth check-in process. The facility was immaculate, and the team took every precaution to ensure our safety, especially in light of the recent pandemic. Our guide, Grayson, and driver, Hillary, were not only professional but also incredibly personable, setting the tone for a day filled with laughter and excitement.

The journey to the river was a scenic 30-minute drive, during which Grayson shared fascinating insights about the local landscape and wildlife. His passion for the area was infectious, and I found myself eagerly anticipating the adventure ahead.

The Thrill of the Rapids

Once we reached the Pumphouse Recreation Area, it was time to gear up and hit the water. Grayson’s attention to detail was evident as he fitted our life jackets and provided clear instructions on what to expect. His booming voice, meant to carry over the sound of the rapids, was both reassuring and entertaining.

The river’s gentle flow was punctuated by small rapids that added just the right amount of thrill to our journey. As someone who thrives on water-based adventures, I found the balance between serenity and excitement to be perfect. The river’s twists and turns offered stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at the natural beauty around me.

Grayson’s expertise shone through as he guided us safely through the rapids, all while keeping the atmosphere light and fun. His ability to remember everyone’s names and engage with each participant, including the younger ones, made the experience feel personal and inclusive.

A Leap of Faith

One of the highlights of the day was the opportunity to jump from a cliff into the river. Grayson, ever the encouraging guide, helped me muster the courage to take the plunge from a 30-foot high cliff. The rush of adrenaline as I hit the water was exhilarating, and I couldn’t help but laugh with joy.

For those less inclined to take such a leap, there was a smaller 5-foot cliff that offered a more gentle introduction to the thrill of cliff jumping. Watching the younger participants take the plunge with wide-eyed excitement was a reminder of the pure joy that comes from embracing new experiences.

As the day came to a close, we returned to the outpost where Hillary had captured the day’s adventures through her lens. The option to purchase high-quality photos without wasteful printing was a thoughtful touch, and I was thrilled to have a digital keepsake of the memories we made.

Reflecting on the day, I realized that the Upper Colorado River Float Tour was more than just a rafting trip; it was a chance to connect with nature, share laughter with new friends, and experience the thrill of the river in a way that was both calming and invigorating. I left Kremmling with a renewed appreciation for the beauty of freshwater adventures and a desire to explore more of what the world’s rivers have to offer.