Looking for a way to cool off this summer? Nothing beats the heat like floating down one of the rivers or creeks in the Denver area.

Floating, tubing, wallowing in the water, whatever your preferred terminology, is a perfect hot weather activity for people of all ages. Best of all, you can enjoy it at your own pace. Keep in mind that the water in our state can be cold! While initially, it will be refreshing, you may want to consider wearing a wetsuit, especially if you are planning on a full day in the water.

Plan ahead! Remember you’ll need two cars (and two drivers) to achieve the best tubing and float experience. Decide upon your start and finish destinations, and drop off a car at a point close to the end-point. Make sure your vehicles can accommodate the tubes and have a pump handy in case any of the inflatables need an extra boost.

Bring along plenty of water and a dry bag that can be secured to the inflatable or on your person. Your car keys, phone, snacks, and other necessities should be safe and dry in this storage device. Many stores will rent dry bags if you don’t have one.

Remember to wear a life jacket! You may be a great swimmer but it won’t matter if you’re knocked unconscious. Life jackets save lives! Don’t forget sunblock and water shoes (not flip-flops). Your water experience will be much more enjoyable without bringing home a sunburn or bruises.

If you need equipment, check out these companies that rent tubes and other necessities:

Whitewater Tubing (Boulder)

https://whitewatertubing.com/

Denver Outdoor Adventure Company (Valverde Denver)

http://www.denveroutdooradventure.com/paddle-craft–snowshoe-rentals.html

Adventure West (Littleton)

https://adventurewestco.com/

Golden River Sports (Golden)

http://www.goldenriversports.net/

Some fun rivers to float near Denver are:

1. Clear Creek Whitewater Park in Golden, CO | See more here
2. Boulder Creek in Boulder, CO | See more here
3. South Platte River in Littleton, CO | See more here
4. Saint Vrain Creek in Longmont, CO | See more here
5. Poudre River in Fort Collins, CO | See more here

Now go out and have some fun on our Colorado rivers!