About
Glenwood Canyon, Colorado — 1903 Shoshone Power Plant, 1992 I-70 Final Link, Hanging Lake. Through Garfield County's Glenwood Canyon, the Colorado River drops Class III-IV over 12 miles of continuous whitewater at an average 6,800 CFS. The Grizzly Creek to Shoshone stretch holds the canyon's best four miles — sustained Class III-IV rapids that demand precise boat control at flows between 3,000-8,000 CFS. Above that, the Dotsero to Grizzly Creek section runs Class II-III as the river enters the canyon proper. Below Shoshone Dam lies a mandatory portage, then Class III water continues to Glenwood Springs. Commercial outfitters including Rock Gardens Rafting and Whitewater Rafting LLC guide the canyon runs during peak season. The White River National Forest manages the corridor as Glenwood Canyon Recreation Area, with USGS gauge 09085000 providing flow data. At optimal levels, this Colorado River section delivers big water hydraulics and technical moves in a setting carved from limestone and shale.
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.