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

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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

Arkansas River Tours

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Arkansas River

2 hours • Admission Ticket Free

Arkansas River Tours - Royal Gorge Rafting Office

10 minutes • Admission 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

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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

We perform checks on reviews

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!