Roaring Fork River
🥇 Gold Medal
Pitkin Co. · 70 mi · Class I–III
512CFS/ 1.80 ft
Optimal→Stable
Water temp: 51°F — Hypothermia risk, wear a drysuit
Optimal: 300–3000 CFS · USGS #09085000
Length
Difficulty
Optimal
Avg Flow
Hist. Median
USGS Gauge
White River National Forest · Colorado Gold Medal candidate
The Roaring Fork drops from Independence Pass near Aspen to its confluence with the Colorado at Glenwood Springs. The river runs through one of Colorado"s most scenic mountain valleys, offering Class I–III whitewater with the Elk Mountains as a backdrop. The Crystal River tributary adds volume and drama. Peak snowmelt in June creates excellent intermediate whitewater.
Trip sections
Upper — Aspen to Basalt, Class I–II, mountain valley
Middle — Basalt to Carbondale, Class II, Crystal River confluence
Lower — Carbondale to Glenwood Springs, Class II–III, best whitewater
Outfitters
Blazing Adventures
Roaring Fork and Colorado River rafting from Aspen
72-Hour Flow Forecast
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10-Year Flow Patterns
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Data Quality
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and trip sections may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level. If you spot an error, use the Improve This River button at the top of the page — your local knowledge is what makes this atlas accurate.