Fair warning: check conditions first! Boulder Creek just reopened after having been closed; Clear Creek is still off-limits.
Boulder Creek
Boulder
Boulder Creek is a popular choice, with several opportunities to hop out and explore the town’s highlights. For one of the best routes, park at Boulder High School and catch a ride into Boulder Canyon. Near the rafting launch point off of Boulder Creek Path, you’ll float right past Eben G. Fine Park, the Boulder Public Library and, during certain hours on Wednesday and Saturday, the Boulder Farmers Market. Pearl Street shops and restaurants are also within walking distance. For an even longer float, you can start in Boulder Canyon, then veer right when you get to the Broadway and Boulder Canyon Drive intersection. You’ll pass CU Boulder and eventually end up at Scott Carpenter Park. Whichever route you choose, you can expect fun drops and lazy sections, as well as other floaters to keep you company. Swing by Whitewater Tubing & Recreation for your rental.
Cache La Poudre River
Fort Collins
There are several areas to dip in along the Cache La Poudre River, but the one closest to Denver runs through downtown Fort Collins. Rent your tube from Rocky Mountain Adventures, park at Legacy Park and then walk the Poudre Trail up to Shield Street. Jump in here, then exit right after Legacy Park Bridge, which is the second bridge you’ll pass on this route. Just remember: Lake Canal Dam, which follows the river, is not navigable; reference this map so you don’t miss your take-out! Similar to Boulder Creek, this is an ideal spot to get in multiple runs and enjoy nearby town amenities — including must-do Colorado breweries Odell Brewing and New Belgium Brewing.
Clear Creek through Golden is now open for tubing again.
Golden
Live like a local this summer at Clear Creek Whitewater Park, a busy tubing spot that flows right through downtown Golden. Located between Lions Park and Vanover Park, this quarter-mile river section includes man-made drop structures intended for Class II/III whitewater kayaking. With cold, fast-moving water and rapid sections, this is not a lazy river float! Those willing to take on the challenge can rent tubes from Golden River Sports or from Adventure West. ALERT: Currently closed for tubing because of conditions.
South Platte
Littleton/Deckers
You obviously don't want to tube the South Platte River in the city itself, but if you’re looking for a chill place to party, head to the river's section in Littleton, but be sure to look at the river level before heading out. Those with the gear can park one vehicle near Reynolds Landing and another at Blackrock Lake, then enjoy a 2.5-mile float through the scenic Carsen Nature Center. Alternately, Adventure West offers reservation-based shuttle service between the two points, as well as tube rentals when the river level allows. Bonus: Its facility is adjacent to Breckenridge Brewery!
For a more remote experience, check out the river stretch that runs through Deckers. You won’t find nearby outfitters, so you’ll need to transport rentals or invest in your own tubes. The area’s shortest route is 1.8 miles, starting at Scraggy View Picnic Ground and ending at Willow Bend Picnic Ground. Tubers can lengthen the journey by starting at Platte River Campground, adding 4.2 miles to the route. DiscoverDeckers.com overviews other route options, as well as the current flow rate, day-use fees and more information.
St. Vrain Creek
Lyons
When snowmelt causes high water levels, it’s not uncommon for St. Vrain Creek to be inaccessible for tubers, but this year, the creek is closed to all uses between South Sunset Street and the BNSF railroad bridge because of construction. Tubers can head over instead to Ray’s River Rentals, located right on the water’s edge in LaVern M. Johnson Park. From here you can splash your way to Black Bear Hole, then walk a quick fifteen minutes to the top of the route. Float this section several times, then round out the afternoon with a picnic lunch at the park.
