This past week, my family was in Colorado from all over the country to visit family in Pueblo. We wanted to experience rafting, and chose RGR because we heard they can provide a family-friendly experience. We were a mixture of first-timers, so-so swimmers, and mid-70s grandparents. There was no question—we needed something family friendly, and some guides that were willing to put up with a range of personalities and abilities.
Miraculously, all 12 of us were on time, and the outfitting crew went to work on us. They carefully made sure we are snug in helmets, vests, and long-sleeves jackets. They saw us taking pictures of each other and kindly stepped in to take group shots of us. All geared up and ready to go — they put us on the bus to launch site.
We get to the launch site and then — enter Josh and Emily. With 12 of us, they separated into 2 rafts, but were mindful that as a family, we wanted to raft together. They managed to have only our family members in each of our two assigned rafts. Josh, bless his heart, was saddled with 2 in their 70s (my mom and dad), 2 in their late 60s (my aunt and uncle), and two cousins who simply won’t ever be quiet. He was amazingly careful with my parents and aunt and uncle, but managed to give everyone an amazing ride. Emily — who I will always remember as my rafting spirit guide — took on me, my 14 year old son, and 4 of my cousins who are wonderful but are of questionable athletic ability, and who also have a hard time following directions in times of excitement. We managed to fall out only a few times, but it was fantastically thrilling each time. Kudos to our rafting spirit guide who jumped into action like freaking Superman each time one of took a swim in the Arkansas.
So — for anyone who is thinking, “no, this may be too much” action for a family of questionable physical ability, put that thought aside. We had an amazing time, and I think you can go.
If they read this — thank you Josh and Emily. We all loved it.