About The Numbers
The Numbers on the Arkansas River near Granite, Colorado, delivers continuous Class IV-V rapids over 3 miles, named for 101 numbered boulder gardens like "Sunshine" and "Gorilla." Popular with expert canoeists and rafters from Salida, flows demand 800-2,500 cfs May-July for playboating. USFS permits required for private trips; commercial ops like American Adventure Expeditions provide top guides. Respect closure zones post-wildfire debris.
Safety Considerations
High-velocity holes and must-make moves risk wraps; AIRE data shows 70% injuries from impacts. Hypothermia accelerates in 45°F water; mandatory warm-up drills. Scout entire run from Catwalk trail; portage Gorilla at low flows. Paddle fatigue common; rotate positions hourly. American Canoe Association stresses creel management for sieves.
Essential Gear
Heavy-duty PFDs like Stohlquist Rescue; full-face helmets; gore-tex drysuits; bombproof boats (Dagger or Pyranha); Z-drag kits; knife and whistle. Satellite phone essential sans signal.