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 Outstanding water conditions enable commercial outfitters
to extend rafting season.
Arkansas River, Colo. - Aug. 11, 2014 -There are only a few weeks of summer left to enjoy one of the best whitewater rafting seasons in southern Colorado. Highly favorable water conditions are allowing some Arkansas River Outfitters Association (AROA) members to remain open longer to provide whitewater fun into September. It's a great time to consider taking a trip on the Arkansas River given the outstanding water conditions and Colorado's typically mild late summer weather. There's a section of river appropriate for every family and skill level.
 "We're excited that Mother Nature has cooperated this year giving commercial outfitters amazing water levels for the entire summer," said Mike Kissack, AROA president. "We won't know any final usage numbers until late October, but it appears the rafting business on the Arkansas has increased this year compared to 2013."
Since the Arkansas River has 102 miles for rafting, there's a variety of adventure to be found. The six most commonly rafted sections on Colorado's Arkansas River each offer a variety of Class II to Class V rapids. Some sections are essentially float trips, designed for families with small children, while others appeal to those with a sense of adventure. All include wonderful scenery, great camaraderie and an enjoyable day outdoors. Not only will rafters be able to boat six different and uniquely beautiful sections of the river, but Arkansas River Outfitters Association (AROA) members will continue to offer a combination of outdoor activities to please every traveler to end the season.
Some of these adventures include:
Raft + Ziplining
Raft + Mountain Biking (adrenaline-seeking to scenic bike rides)
Raft + RappellingRaft + Rock Climbing
Raft + Adventure Park
Raft + Royal Gorge Railroad
Raft + ATV
Raft + Horseback Riding
Various combinations of fly fishing, walk/wade and float fishing trips
Inflatable Kayaks
September is a particularly beautiful time to visit as the aspen trees and cottonwoods will just begin to show their autumn colors, while the weather is still warm and lovely for camping, hiking, cycling and water activities.
There are additional ways to enjoy the Arkansas River Headwaters Recreation Area.
- The AROA Outfitters are still providing whitewater fun
- Leaf tours/Jeep tours
 - Ziplining
- Float Trips
- Wildlife Trips
- Geologic digs
- Picnicking
- Camping
- Hiking
- Mountain climbing
- Rock climbing
- Explore Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
- Fishing / Angling - Gold Medal Designation
- Aerial Adventure Park Camping
- Picnicking
- Wildlife viewing/photography
- Horseback riding
- Mountain biking
- Mule tour
- ATV & off road tours
- Hot springs
- Gold-panning
- Regional wineries and breweries
Events:Salida Winefest - Saturday, Aug. 30, 1 - 6 p.m. Highlights Colorado wineries plus local food vendors, music and art in Riverside Park. Tickets available at the Salida Chamber of Commerce. Salida Fiber Festival - Saturday, Sept. 6, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 7, 2014, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Riverside Park, Salida Salida Colorado Bike Fest - Thursday, Sept. 11 - Sunday, Sept. 14 Various groups in Salida have teamed up to create and promote unique and fun bike events throughout the week. Free group rides, bike films, bike from work mixer, a chainless race, pump track competition, a bike parade, the return of the Banana Belt Mountain Bike Race, the 16th Annual Monarch Crest Crank and free live music in Riverside Park - plus much more! Historic ATV Color Tour Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2014 - Sunday, Sept. 28 Bring your ATV and ride the Buena Vista area to see the fall colors and the historic sights of the area. Sponsored by the High Rocky Riders ATV club. Call 719-395-6612 for more information.
About Arkansas River Outfitters Association:
Arkansas River Outfitters Association (AROA) consists of knowledgeable, experienced and licensed professionals who are dedicated to offering world-class outdoor fun on one of the most popular rivers for rafting in United States, Colorado's Arkansas River. AROA's members offer a wide range of whitewater experiences for all ages and adrenaline levels, and are truly committed to providing exceptional service for a memorable adventure.
INTERVIEWS
To schedule an interview please contact:
Monica Ramey, Bachman pr: 719-339-4109 mobile
Bachman pr: 488-5908 main
Photos and B-Roll are also available. | 
