Whitewater runners hope always for years like last year, when unusually gracious snowpack melted to swell Colorado’s rivers. It meant days on the Dolores River, which only rarely rises through the remote, desert canyon of the southwest. The Dolores is but one river on this state’s bucket list.

Gunnison Gorge: The late, prolific landscape photographer John Fielder famously knew every nook and cranny of Colorado. Gunnison Gorge was one of his favorite spots. So it has been for residents around Montrose, who have historically packed horses to haul gear into the rugged realm. The Chukar Trail to the put-in is no cakewalk. One is rewarded with an endlessly scenic journey over Class II-IV rapids. A common trip covers two or three days to the put-out at Gunnison River Pleasure Park.

Northgate Canyon: A lesser-known, 11-mile stretch of the North Platte River carves this granite wonder. The canyon helps to define Northgate Wilderness outside Walden in northwest Colorado — calling both to bald eagles and to boaters worthy of navigating the rock-riddled, Class III-IV water. Some make it a full day from the Routt Access put-in to Six Mile Gap. Others add another day or two to reach an ideal destination for reflecting, recovering and celebrating: the hot springs of Saratoga, Wyo.

Royal Gorge: Maybe you’ve only gazed upon the Arkansas River from high atop the bridge or from inside an aerial gondola at the theme park. Maybe you’ve wondered about that thrill far below through the deep, dark depths of the Royal Gorge. Maybe you should keep wondering. Experienced guides point to several, family-friendly trips along the river closer to Buena Vista. Only the fit and prepared take on the big waves and steep drops of the Royal Gorge — something to brag about when it’s over.

Yampa River: This is the last free-flowing tributary of the Colorado River system, which only begins to capture its legend. The trip through the sandstone canyon of Dinosaur National Monument must be experienced to be understood. It’s a hard experience to come by. That’s due to Mother Nature not always providing boatable water, and also due to private permits being in high demand and short supply. When conditions allow, some outfitters offer multi-day trips over 71 miles of mostly mild water.