How to River Tube to Breckenridge Brewery in Littleton, CO
Looking for a lazy river that drops you off at a brewery? Sounds too good to be true, right? Yes, this is probably the most Colorado thing ever, but you can make this dream a reality in Littleton, Colorado, a suburb just 20 minutes away from Denver.
This post breaks down everything you need to know for both tube renters and tube owners who want to float down the South Platte River to Breckenridge Brewery.
Float Details
The lazy river begins on the South Platte River in Littleton, just north of Chatfield State Park, and ends at the brewery parking lot.
From start to finish, the float lasts anywhere from 1 to 3 hours depending on the flow and covers 2.5 miles.
There are a few minor rapids throughout the duration of the trip, but it is pretty mild most of the way, although it is subject to change because the river is dam-controlled. You can find the current flow rate here.
Throughout the duration of your float, you are surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife as your river journey takes you through the Carson Nature Center.
This is a much more chill experience compared to Clear Creek in Golden, making it perfect for families and large groups who just want to hang out on the water for a while.
Tube Renters
For those looking to rent tubes, you can rent locally at Adventure West.
Adventure West’s check-in and tube shuttle are located on the Breckenridge Brewery property at 2920 Brewery Lane, Littleton, CO.
Reservations are required for tube rental/shuttle package. The cost of the tube rental and shuttle package for adults is $42 per person on the weekend and $37 per person on weekdays.
There perk of renting from Adventure West is that you don’t have to worry about coordinating pick-up and drop off since you will be shuttled to and from where you need to be. You can just relax and enjoy the ride!
Tube Owners
Already own a tube and wanting to save a little bit of money? Skip the shuttle and drive there yourself!
This does involve two vehicles and a bit of coordination.
Park your first vehicle in the Breckenridge Brewery lot at 2990 Brewery Ln, Littleton, CO 80120, where your lazy river float will end (your car will remain parked here until it’s you’re done and you’re ready to pick up your other car).
In a second vehicle, drive to the Blackrock Lake Parking Lot, next to the Mary Carter Greenway Trailhead where you will begin your float on the South Platte River.
Reservations are required to park here and it is recommended that you do so in advance. It costs $10 per vehicle. Find information regarding parking reservations here.
If this lot is full, there is another lot you can park at off of S. Platte Reservoir Access Rd. (you would have passed this lot on the way in).
Once you arrive back at the Breckenridge Brewery and are done tubing, you and one other person will have to drive back to where you started to retrieve the other vehicle where you put your tubes in.
Breckenridge Brewery
After you’ve completed your tubing trip, soak up the sun a little longer and enjoy a craft beer at the famous Breckenridge Brewery in Littleton.
Here you’ll find a well rounded drink menu featuring locally made beers, ales, and lagers. They offer their own brand of hard seltzers too if you’d prefer something other than beer.
They also have an extensive list of food items which includes salads, burgers, sandwiches, and so much more. Take a look at the menus below:
No need to worry if you’re soaked from the river, there’s plenty of seating outdoors.
Need to Knows for Everyone
South Platte Park River Flow Recommendations
50 cfs and below: Floating is not recommended. River permits are invalid as flows are too low.
50 – 600 cfs: Good for families, life vests recommended, less experienced should scout or portage boat chutes.
600 – 2000 cfs: Experienced floaters only, life vests recommended, scout or portage all rapids.
2000 +: River may be closed to all uses except whitewater vessels.
Other Safety Tips
Wear a life jacket
Wear shoes or sandals that will stay on your feet
Make sure valuable items like keys and wallets are stored securely in a dry bag
