If you’re looking for Colorado’s most thrilling whitewater, two legendary runs on the Arkansas River stand out: The Numbers and Pine Creek + The Numbers. Both are steep, fast, and packed with adrenaline, and both are guided by Elk Mountain Aspen as full-throttle rafting experiences a couple of hours from Aspen.
But there are key differences that can help you choose the right trip based on your skill level, appetite for risk, and time commitment. Here’s what you need to know before you hit the river.
What Is “The Numbers”?
The Numbers is a legendary Class IV section of the Arkansas River located near Buena Vista, Colorado. It’s known for its rapid succession of technical drops, steep gradient, and remote alpine scenery.
Highlights:
- 7 major rapids in just over 6 miles
- Nonstop Class IV whitewater
- Beautiful views of the Collegiate Peaks
- Ideal for experienced beginners and thrill-seeking returners
- Book The Numbers rafting trip →
Best For:
- Adventurous first-timers in good physical condition
- Intermediate rafters looking to push their limits
- Small groups seeking a punchy, fast-paced half-day run
What Is “Pine Creek + The Numbers”?
This combo trip starts with Pine Creek, a mostly Class IV with one Class V section, known as one of the most intense commercial runs in Colorado, followed immediately by the full Numbers section.
Highlights:
- Pine Creek: mostly Class IV water with one massive (but optional) Class V drop, steep gradient, powerful hydraulics
- Combines two of Colorado’s most iconic stretches into one run
- Requires technical paddling, strength, and strong swimming ability
- Book Pine Creek + The Numbers rafting trip →
Best For:
- Confident, physically fit paddlers with prior rafting experience
- Those who have rafted Class IV before and want to level up
- Hardcore thrill-seekers looking for back-to-back Class V and IV
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | The Numbers Only | Pine Creek + The Numbers |
|---|---|---|
| Top Rapids | Rapids #1–#7 of The Numbers | Pine Creek (Class V) + The Numbers |
| Difficulty | Class IV | Class IV & V (Pine Creek), IV (Numbers) |
| Trip Duration | ~2 hours (half-day) | ~4-5 hours (extended half-day) |
| Minimum Age | 14+ with good fitness | 16+ with prior rafting experience |
| Adrenaline Level | High | Extreme |
| Scenery | Collegiate Peaks Wilderness | Pine Creek Canyon + Collegiate Peaks |
| Best For | First-timers seeking high adventure | Experienced paddlers craving intensity |
| Meals | Lunch included | Lunch included |
Choosing the Right Arkansas River Adventure
Go for The Numbers if:
- You’re new to Class IV whitewater but ready for a true challenge
- You’re looking for a high-adventure, half-day trip
- You want fast-paced, continuous rapids with expert guidance
- You’re traveling with others who may have mixed experience levels
Go for Pine Creek + The Numbers if:
- You’ve rafted Class IV before and want to take on Class V
- You’re confident in rough water, strong swimming, and team paddling
- You’re seeking one of the most technical and demanding commercial runs in Colorado
- You want a longer trip packed with back-to-back action
Why Raft the Arkansas River with Elk Mountain Aspen?
While these trips aren’t right in Aspen, we guide groups from Aspen and the Roaring Fork Valley every season. The Arkansas River offers some of the best whitewater in the state, and we make it easy to get there and gear up: no stress, no second-guessing.
We provide:
- All safety gear and equipment
- Top-tier, professional guides
- Wetsuits, helmets, and splash jackets
- A streamlined experience from start to finish
Explore all our Arkansas River trips here →
Or contact us to talk through which trip is right for you →
FAQs
How do I know if I’m ready for Class V whitewater?
If you’ve comfortably run Class III–IV rapids, are physically strong, and want a serious challenge, Pine Creek may be for you. Our team will help you decide before booking.
Can I book just The Numbers without Pine Creek?
Yes! Our standalone Numbers trip is one of the most exciting Class IV runs in Colorado and doesn’t include Class V sections.
Is Pine Creek safe for first-time rafters?
It depends on the river flow at the time you plan to go. We strongly recommend prior rafting experience and a good fitness level. It’s a demanding stretch, but there is the option to walk around the Class V rapid.
How far is the Arkansas River from Aspen?
The launch points near Buena Vista are about 1 hour 10 min from Aspen for Pine Creek and 1 hour and 20 mins for Numbers, an easy day trip with unforgettable rewards. From the take-out, the ride back to Aspen is about 1 hour 30 minutes.
What should I bring?
Swimsuit, water bottle, and a sense of adventure. We provide the rest!
