A trip on the Arkansas River is not complete without the proper safety equipment. A personal flotation device (PFD) is a must. Colorado State Law requires anyone under the age of 13 to wear a PFD whenever swimming in the Arkansas River Headwaters Area. Helmets are a great idea if you are spending anytime on whitewater.
Sprung a leak? Person overboard? Pack the following: first aid and patch kit, an extra PFD, a spare oar or paddle, a pump, a bailing device and bow-stern line. Have rescue gear: ropes/throw lines, a knife, carabiners and a whistle.
If you left home without the right supplies, stop by one of our gear stores.

River Safety

Rivers are powerful and dynamic. Unforeseen hazards lie below the surface of the water. Consider the following before planning your next trip:

• Know the section of the river, its current conditions, and the weather forecast. Does your group have the skill set and experience to navigate?
• Be aware of river “signs” – both natural and man-made: holes, wrap rocks, undercuts, rock sieves, significant rapids and “strainers”.
• Everyone in your group should know First Aid, CPR and water rescue.
   

Let Someone Else Deal with the Logistics

If navigating the rivers of Colorado’s high country are new to you, then reach out to one of our many talented river guide services to book a trip. Not only do river guides know how to have a good time, they are also experts at river safety and know how to back up a boat trailer.

Private Boaters

The Arkansas can present tremendous challenges to both novice and experienced boaters. Be certain to get specific information about the section of river you are interested in. Consult others who have boated there, know your abilities – and carry and use safety equipment. All whitewater boats (canoes, kayaks and rafts) must have the owner’s name and current address written legibly and clearly visible somewhere on the craft. In addition, it is also recommended that a telephone number be clearly displayed on the boat.

Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

Colorado’s Largest State Park

Below the striking Saguache and Sangre de Cristo mountain ranges lies the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area. This 152 mile stretch of river starts in the high mountains near Leadville and runs all the way down to the open plains of Pueblo. The Arkansas River winds through Chaffee County where boaters can find anything from challenging Class V white-water rapids to idyllic float fishing on calmer waters. No matter how you choose to enjoy the river, the power of the Arkansas should always be taken seriously, no matter how much or how little water is flowing.