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Family Friendly Rafting near Colorado Springs

Recommended by 99% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Cañon City, USA
  • 3 to 4 hours (approx.)
  • Mobile ticket
  • Offered in: English

Overview

See what makes Bighorn Sheep Canyon one of the most popular rafting locations near the Royal Gorge on a half-day whitewater adventure that’s suitable for both novices and experienced rafters. Soak up views of the Sangre de Cristo mountains and pristine Colorado scenery in between tackling class II-IV rapids. At just a half day, it's an easy way to fit in a favorite Rocky Mountains outdoor activity.
  • Navigate a scenic run of the Arkansas River with an expert river guide
  • Enjoy different views of unspoiled Colorado landscapes
  • Moderate rapids are ideal for intermediate rafters, but no experience is necessary
  • Makes a great outdoor adventure for families with children age 8 and older

What's Included

  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • Professional guide
  • Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points
  • Use of Helmet, Life Vest, Splash Jacket and Wetsuit if needed
  • Food and drinks
  • Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
  • Guide Gratuity

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting point

  • Arkansas River Tours - Royal Gorge Rafting Office
    49311 W U.S. Hwy 50 unit b, Cañon City, CO 81212, USA

    Drive west on Hwy 50 from Canon City just over 1 mile and we will be on the right at the road for Skyline Drive

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

1

Arkansas River Tours

30 minutesAdmission Ticket Free

2

Arkansas River

2 hours Admission Ticket Free

3

Arkansas River Tours - Royal Gorge Rafting Office

10 minutesAdmission Ticket Free

Additional Info

  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Recommended dress code is no cotton. Anything synthetic such as swimwear, workout gear, and sandals/sneakers with a heel. No flip flops for crocks!
  • Stroller accessible
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
  • Most travelers can participate
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 175 travelers

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Traveler Photos

Gallery picture 1 (from a traveler's review)
Gallery picture 2 (from a traveler's review)
Gallery picture 3 (from a traveler's review)
Gallery picture 4 (from a traveler's review)
Gallery picture 5 (from a traveler's review)

Reviews

5.0
based on 190 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

My family and I had a...

Haley_M, Jul 2025
My family and I had a great time rafting with Arkansas River Tours. Austin was our guide and he was great. He kept us safe and made sure we had a fun time on the river. I would recommend this company to anyone looking to go rafting!

We had so much fun!...

Kambra_T, Jun 2025
We had so much fun! Initially I wasn’t sure how tough the rafting would be, but our group had 5 people of all ages and it was just fine / it was family friendly. Our 13 & 16 year old had a blast.

The guide was great. The...

Greg_H, Aug 2023
The guide was great. The water awesome. It was 1st class all the way, from our stepping into the office and being greeted like we were friends, to the river team, and all. Thanks a ton (of fun).

Response from Host, Jun 2025

Thanks a ton (of fun) right back at you, Greg! We're so happy to hear your whitewater rafting adventure near Colorado Springs was top-notch from start to finish. Our crew takes pride in making every guest feel like family, and it sounds like your guide and the team did just that. Come back and ride the rapids with us again soon — the Royal Gorge is always calling!

Great learning trip

Jack_B, Jul 2021
Great guides made it enjoyable. Mild rapids was great for the first time and to learn. Definitely want to do it again In Some wilder rapids.

From $149.00

per person

up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)

Book ahead!
On average, this is booked 41 days in advance.

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