Meet our Authors

Meet the authors behind AVA Rafting & Zipline’s blog posts! Our writers are talented, passionate, and always looking to share the best of Colorado’s great outdoors with our readers.

Amber Boutwell

Amber Boutwell is a published Denver photographer who loves capturing nature and food. She shoots with natural light but has a deep love for dark skies. When she’s not on mountaintops chasing the Milky Way, she’s managing the great brands behind AVA and The Outlaw Group as their Marketing Manager. She’s been known to quote Joe Pesci, over-kiss cats, enthusiastically eat cheese, and return pugs.

Her motto:
“Seek out places where the Wi-Fi is weak, the views are stunning, and don’t forget the snacks.”

Follow her work on Instagram: @amberbphotographyco
Have an inquiry for AVA? Reach out to us at [email protected]

Mitchell Nguyen

Meet Mitchell, the newest member of the Outlaw team, who’s always on the lookout for hidden gems—whether that’s in a thrift store, at the most aesthetic coffee shop, or the next marketing campaign! Social media is his one true passion, and writing and telling stories has always accompanied it. When he’s not typing away on his next great story or blog post, you can find him at Wash Park playing grass volleyball or rollerblading at a safe speed.

His motto? “Smile, it’s always in style!” A perfect reminder to keep things light, positive, and full of good vibes—just like his approach to life, marketing, and writing!

What an AVA Adventure looks like

Where to Find the Best Outdoor Adventures

From towering mountain peaks to rushing rivers, Colorado is packed with world-class destinations for outdoor lovers. Whether you’re soaring through the trees on a zipline, tackling Class V whitewater rapids, or hiking through breathtaking landscapes, there’s no shortage of adventure. Explore our top picks for must-visit locations across the state, from the thrilling canyons of Clear Creek to the stunning beauty of Browns Canyon National Monument. Your next Colorado adventure starts here! 🌲🏔️🚀

Popular Articles

Ziplining in Colorado.

The Ultimate Guide to Ziplining Near Denver

Written by Amber Boutwell, Marketing Manager Read more about our authors here.   What to Expect for the 2025 Zipline Season   Colorado’s ziplining season is officially […]

maroon bells fall

Fall in Colorado 2024

Fall is the only time of year when Mother Nature changes her features so drastically, and what a sight it is! The entire state of […]

Browns Canyon rafting with OTC and AVA

Our Experience Rafting Browns Canyon at High Water

Written by Amber Boutwell, Marketing Manager Read more about our authors here. On June 19th, the AVA team joined up with OutThere Colorado to take […]

three rafts on the upper colorado river with rocky cliffs on either side.

What to Expect this 2024 Colorado Rafting Season

With rafting starting this weekend, we are stoked for another epic season of adventure! Our outposts in Buena Vista and Idaho Springs open for rafting […]

Wildflowers in Colorado

Colorado Wildflowers: When and Where to See Them

Wildflowers give Colorado a new boost of vibrant colors from May to August, with wildflower blooms starting at lower elevations in early May and higher […]

group smiling and laughing as their raft heads toward a big wave.

Colorado Whitewater Rafting Packing List

We are excited to welcome you to the water for your exciting whitewater rafting trip! Before you leave for your adventure, it’s important to double-check […]

group rafting directly into whitewater spray

Best Whitewater Rafting Near Golden, Colorado

Golden was originally named Golden City after an early settler and miner, Tom Golden. Golden City was initially meant to be one of Colorado’s many […]

man kayaking through smaller waves

Best Places to Kayak Near Golden, Colorado

Golden, Colorado, just west of Denver, is the site of the well-known Coors Brewery and also the prestigious School of Mines. This lovely town includes […]

Colorado River Guide

Best 3 Whitewater Rafting Trips for Large Groups in Colorado

Looking for an amazing whitewater or other outdoor adventure for your group? Then look no further, AVA is the place for you. From groups of […]

October Rafting in Colorado

Best October Rafting in Colorado

As we near the end of the warmer weather in Colorado and prep our ski gear for the winter, the whitewater available for rafting becomes […]

Rafters holding paddles up

Beginner Rafting Trips in Colorado

If you don’t have much experience rafting, choosing the right Whitewater Rafting experience for you can seem like a daunting endeavor. We’re here to help you […]

rafters holding paddles up

7 Best Group Adventures You Can do in Colorado

If you are looking for great group activities in Colorado this summer, you have come to the right place. Colorado is home to some of […]