FEATURED RIVER PROFILE: THE EAGLE RIVER
It’s time to get to know some of the incredible stretches of whitewater here in Vail, Colorado! This state has incredible rafting opportunities, and we’d like to introduce you to one of our favorites. In case you’re unfamiliar, here’s a look at the Eagle River.
Why Eagle River’s Rapids is a Must-Try
If you’ve never been able to raft the Eagle River, you must make time! You haven’t experienced river rafting in Colorado until you’ve been on the Eagle.
“Right now is prime season for the Eagle River, and when it flows, it’s some of the best whitewater in the nation, no joke,” said Sage Outdoor Adventures owner and river guide Cole Bangert. “All the river enthusiasts in the state flock here during peak season. If the prime season on the Eagle ran longer into the summer, it would rival the Arkansas River in use numbers.”
Arkansas River vs. Eagle River
While the Arkansas River’s long rafting season makes it the most famous river in the state by a long stretch, the Eagle is perhaps the most underrated. Because during its peak rafting season, there is nothing else like it. Its long, steady gradient drops with awesome class 3 and 4 rapids, including a continuous, mile-long class 4 rapid!
“The Eagle River is unique in that it has a very steady gradient,” Bangert said. “Specifically, the upper section from Minturn to Avon steadily drops. As the water rises with snowmelt, the fun increases. It’s pretty much a 10-mile wave train.”
Brave Eagle River’s Dowd Chute
Perhaps the Eagle River’s most famous stretch is Dowd Chute.
“This is a fire hose of a rapid,” Bangert commented. “It’s class 4-plus, and it’s fast and steep with big pushy waves. The last wave, Tyson’s, delivers a very heavy hit. Paddlers in the front of the boat generally end up in the laps of the people in the back of the boat on this hit.”
After Dowd chute, the fun isn’t over. The rest of the upper Eagle River features 10 miles of outstanding class 4 whitewater, culminating in the “Edwards Mile”, a mile-long class 4 rapid with continuous huge waves.
Your Next Adventure Awaits
Join us and experience the best that Vail has to offer. From the breathtaking views and diverse terrain to the exceptional service and expert guidance, Sage Outdoor Adventures is your gateway to an extraordinary adventure. Contact us today to start planning your next adventure in Vail!
Nick Junker
General Manager
I’m dedicated to leveraging my skills and experiences to make a positive impact in the professional realm.
With a background in Sales and Outdoor Recreation, I’ve navigated through various roles where I’ve honed my expertise in Risk Management, Business Development and Financial Analysis. From Account Executive to General Manager, I’ve cultivated a deep understanding of client and employee relations, Human Resources, Project Management and overall business operations from generating sales to budgeting expenses and managing over 30 employees.
My mission is to create a great culture in any organization I am apart of, through creating efficient industry specific systems within the business that satisfies both employees and investors. Whether it’s through implementing new business systems or managing employee expectations, I’m committed to meeting the goals of the organization.
Known for my strong leadership and organizational skills, I excel in delegating tasks to keep projects and goals on task and on budget. I’m passionate about systems, always seeking innovative solutions to making the business run smoother and more efficiently. I believe in the power of collaboration and enjoy working with diverse individuals to build a strong team thats driven to accomplish the organizations goals.
