A Serene Start to the Day

The sun was just beginning to peek over the horizon as my wife and I made our way to the meeting point for the Upper Colorado Float adventure. The air was crisp, and the promise of a day on the river had us both buzzing with excitement. As seasoned surfers, we’re no strangers to water, but the idea of trading ocean waves for a river float was a new thrill.

The check-in process was a breeze, and soon we were on a short bus ride to the launch spot. Our guide, Ken, was a character, full of “punny” humor and a wealth of knowledge about the local flora. His enthusiasm was infectious, and it set the tone for a day of laid-back adventure. As we settled into our raft, the gentle flow of the river welcomed us, and we were off.

Floating Through Nature’s Canvas

The Upper Colorado River is a masterpiece of nature, winding through the Gore Range and mountain ranch land. The scenery was breathtaking, with every bend revealing a new vista of towering peaks and lush greenery. The river was mostly calm, with a few class II rapids to keep things interesting. For a couple of surfers used to the ocean’s unpredictability, the river’s gentle rhythm was a refreshing change.

Ken kept us entertained with stories and facts about the area, pointing out various plants and wildlife along the way. His passion for the environment was evident, and it added a layer of depth to the experience. We even encountered a class III rapid, which gave us a taste of the adrenaline rush we love from surfing. It was a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.

A Riverside Feast

As the sun climbed higher in the sky, we pulled over to a picturesque spot on the riverbank for lunch. The guides set up a deli-style spread, complete with fresh fruit that was a delightful surprise. Pineapple and strawberries never tasted so good, especially with the stunning backdrop of the Colorado wilderness.

The break was a chance to soak in the surroundings and chat with fellow adventurers. There were families with young kids, all of whom seemed to be having the time of their lives. It was a reminder of the universal appeal of nature’s playground, where age and experience don’t matter.

As we floated back to our starting point, the sun began its descent, casting a golden glow over the river. It was a fitting end to a day that had been both invigorating and peaceful. The Upper Colorado Float was a fantastic introduction to river rafting, and it left us eager for more adventures on the water. Until then, we’ll be chasing waves and writing about the carefree life of surfers, always on the lookout for the next great escape.