Arkansas River Valley, Colorado — [Insert Date] — As Colorado’s spring and summer
recreation season approaches, the Arkansas River community is preparing for another exciting
summer on one of the most iconic whitewater rivers in the United States. Today, the Arkansas
River Outfitters Association (AROA) announced the start of the 2026 rafting season, along with
a new strategic partnership naming Obviouslee as the agency of record to amplify the story of
the Arkansas River and the communities it supports.
The Arkansas River remains a powerful economic engine for rural Colorado. A recent economic
value analysis estimates the commercial rafting and outfitter industry generates between $50
and $60 million annually in economic activity, supporting hundreds of jobs and local businesses
throughout the Arkansas River corridor.

Visitors travel from across the country to experience the Arkansas River, with approximately
75% of rafting guests coming from outside Colorado. Their spending on lodging, restaurants,
retail, and transportation creates a ripple effect that supports communities in Chaffee, Fremont,
and surrounding counties.
“This river is more than a recreation destination—it’s a lifeline for the communities along the
Arkansas River Valley,” said Mark Hammer, Arkansas River Outfitters Association. “Every rafting
trip supports local guides, restaurants, hotels, and small businesses that rely on a vibrant
summer tourism season.”

Building momentum for the 2026 rafting season
Interest in outdoor recreation has surged in recent years, and outfitters along the Arkansas
River are preparing to welcome visitors for the 2026 season. Across the valley, operators are
gearing up for a full season on the river. While the Royal Gorge and Browns Canyon continue to
offer challenging whitewater, much of the river provides approachable, family-friendly
experiences. Many outfitters offer inflatable kayak tours, stand-up paddleboard instruction, and
other guided river experiences.
“It’s not just about rafting or fishing. It’s about getting families outside in nature, spending time
together outside, and seeing Colorado from a different lens,” said Billy Marquis, Owner of
Arkansas River Tours.
“About 70 percent of our guests are booking Class III or lower trips, which shows that for many
people, the Arkansas River is really about a fun, approachable, family-friendly day outside,” said
Travis Hochard, COO of River Runners.
Water conditions on the Arkansas River are supported by a collaborative water management
system that balances agricultural, municipal,ecological and recreational needs. The Arkansas
River has a long history of supporting a dependable and enjoyable recreation season, with
conditions closely monitored throughout.
To expand awareness of the Arkansas River experience, AROA has partnered with Obviouslee
x Meteorite PR to support strategic communications and media outreach for the organization.
The partnership will help share stories about the Arkansas River and promote the Arkansas
River Valley as one of Colorado’s premier outdoor destinations.
“Our goal is to bring national and regional attention to what makes the Arkansas River special,”
said Eric Henderson, COO at Obviouslee x Meteorite PR. “From family rafting trips to the local
businesses and communities that depend on the river, the Arkansas River Valley is a
cornerstone of Colorado’s outdoor recreation economy.”
Commercial rafting and guided river trips play a central role in sustaining the broader outdoor
recreation economy of the Arkansas River Valley. Visitor spending tied to river trips supports

lodging, restaurants, retail, and service businesses throughout the region, providing a critical
summer boost for rural communities along the river corridor.
Beyond direct economic impact, the Arkansas River also supports broader community benefits.
Outdoor recreation supports public health, strengthens community identity, and helps attract
new residents and businesses drawn to the quality of life offered by the Arkansas River Valley.
AROA members also continue to invest in expanding access to the outdoors. Each spring,
outfitters partner with the Boys and Girls Club to provide rafting trips for hundreds of local youth
across the Front Range and surrounding communities. For many participants, it is their first time
visiting the mountains or experiencing a river like the Arkansas.
Programs like these highlight the role that rafting plays not only in tourism but also in creating
opportunities for young people to connect with Colorado’s landscapes and outdoor recreation.
As preparations continue for the 2026 season, outfitters across the Arkansas River Valley are
looking forward to welcoming returning visitors and first-time adventurers to experience one of
Colorado’s most iconic rivers. Visitors can learn more about the Arkansas River experience and
find licensed outfitters at arkansasriveroutfitters.org and raftthebest.com
About Arkansas River Outfitters Association (AROA)
The Arkansas River Outfitters Association represents professional outfitters providing rafting, kayaking,
and fly fishing experiences along the Arkansas River. Together, members offer safe, high-quality
adventures for visitors from around the world.
About Obviouslee
Obviouslee incubates ideas, builds relationships, and delivers real results for causes, brands,
and partners we believe in. As a certified B Corporation, we use business as a force for good and, as a
female-founded and led marketing agency, we are a proud member of WBENC. Established in 2005 and
headquartered in Charleston, SC, our team spans the globe, collaborating on marketing and creative
campaigns with clients ranging from emerging entrepreneurs to iconic brands. We are honored to partner
with organizations making a difference in the impact, sports and events, and outdoor industries. To learn
more, visit obviouslee.com.
Media Contact – Eric Henderson | | 307.690.2984