Running the Spine of Colorado: Rafting the Arkansas River's Browns, Bighorn and Royal Gorge
From family floats to Class V drops — a practical, scenic guide to Colorado’s most varied whitewater corridor.
When the sun lifts off the Collegiate Peaks and the river wakes from its alpine sleep, the Arkansas River unfurls like a ribbon of dare across central Colorado. You feel it at the first splash of cold river spray: a current that has carved gashes through granite and sandstone, a current that alternately teases and slams—inviting you, testing you, insisting you pay attention. From family floats that ease you into the sport to the numbered teeth of technical rapids in Buena Vista and the vertiginous walls of the Royal Gorge, the Arkansas is not one river but a sequence of personalities. Each canyon and run reads like a chapter, and most visitors can stitch together a weekend of contrasts—class II-III fun in Bighorn Sheep Canyon, granite-studded intermediates in Browns Canyon, and the full-throttle, Class IV–V theatrics of the Royal Gorge.
Trail Wisdom
Choose the run to your skill
Match your rafting section to your experience—Browns Canyon for mixed groups, Bighorn for families, Royal Gorge for experienced paddlers.
Morning launches beat storms
Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer—book early-day trips for clearer weather and calmer conditions.
Secure footwear matters
Wear river shoes or strapped sandals; loose sneakers will come off in waves and slippery banks.
Respect guide instructions
On technical runs like the Numbers or Royal Gorge, following guide commands is the single best safety measure.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Take out at the riverside base in Cotopaxi for easy access to Bighorn Sheep Canyon swimming spots
- •Sunrise or sunset from the rim trail near Browns Canyon for quiet, elevated views
Wildlife
Bighorn sheep, Osprey and bald eagles
Conservation Note
Browns Canyon is a proposed federal wilderness area and many outfitters participate in river clean-ups and practice Leave No Trace to protect riparian habitat.
The river corridor was used historically by Native American groups and later by miners and railroads during Colorado’s 19th-century mining boom.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: High water runs, Browns Canyon early season, Wildflower viewing
Challenges: Cold water temps, Unpredictable flows, Limited shuttle services early season
Late spring snowmelt swells the river—expect higher, faster flows; wetsuits are recommended and some outfitters run fewer trips early in the season.
summer
Best for: Peak rafting conditions, Full-day Royal Gorge trips, Family-friendly floats
Challenges: Afternoon thunderstorms, Crowded weekends, Strong sun exposure
Summer is prime rafting season with consistent operations, but book in advance and favor morning departures to avoid storms.
fall
Best for: Fewer crowds, Crisp air and color, Lower, clearer flows
Challenges: Cooler mornings, Shorter daylight, Potential for early snow
Fall offers quieter runs and vivid foliage; choose full-body insulation if temperatures drop and check outfitters’ schedules.
winter
Best for: Off-season planning, Nearby winter sports, Lower river traffic
Challenges: Most rafting operations closed, Very cold water and air, Limited services
Rafting operations largely pause; winter is better for planning future trips or pairing with snow sports in nearby ranges.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-toe river shoesEssential
Protects feet on rocky launches and in-swim sections; will stay on during rapids.
Wetsuit or splash jacket
Useful during snowmelt when water is cold; many outfitters provide wetsuits for hire.
Personal dry bag (small)Essential
Keeps phone, keys, and snacks dry on multi-hour or full-day trips.
Sunscreen & polarized sunglasses with strapEssential
UV protection and reduced glare improve comfort and visibility on bright river surfaces.
Common Questions
What sections are best for first-time rafters?
Bighorn Sheep Canyon and family float options (Milk Run, Cotopaxi float) are ideal—gentle Class II–III rapids, swim stops, and guided instruction make them perfect introductions.
Do I need prior rafting experience for Browns Canyon?
No—Browns Canyon is considered intermediate and is suitable for anyone comfortable following guide commands; it’s a common choice for mixed-experience groups.
Is the Royal Gorge safe for beginners?
Royal Gorge includes Class IV–V rapids; it’s a serious section best reserved for experienced paddlers or those on a guided trip who meet physical and swimming capability requirements.
How long are typical trips?
Trips range from a one-hour Milk Run to half-day Browns Canyon (about 2–3 hours on water) to full-day combos that include Bighorn Sheep plus Royal Gorge segments.
Are there age or weight limits?
Yes—many outfitters set minimum ages for certain runs (some family floats accept children as young as 2–4) and maximum weight limits for safety on technical runs—check with the operator when booking.
How do I get to the put-in and shuttle logistics?
Outfitters typically provide shuttles from riverside bases in Buena Vista, Cotopaxi or Cañon City; public transport is limited, so arrange transfers through your outfitter.
What to Pack
Closed-toe river shoes for traction, a dry bag for electronics, sunscreen & hat for sun protection, and a light waterproof layer for storms.
Did You Know
The Arkansas River originates in central Colorado near Leadville and runs about 1,469 miles to the Mississippi River, making it one of the longest rivers in the United States.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning runs to avoid storms; reserve outfitters in advance for July weekends; fly into Colorado Springs or Denver and drive to Buena Vista; bring cash or card for tips and small purchases.
Local Flavor
Buena Vista and Cañon City pair rafting with local craft breweries, trout-centric menus, and ranch-style diners; try an elk or trout entrée after a day on the water, or a hoppy IPA from a river-town taproom.
Logistics Snapshot
Nearest airports: Colorado Springs (90 min) or Denver (3 hours). Book outfitters in advance; most provide wetsuits, PFDs, helmets and shuttles. Age/weight limits vary by run; bring ID and waterproof-friendly clothing.
Sustainability Note
Choose licensed outfitters that follow Leave No Trace, participate in river clean-ups, and avoid introducing invasive species—clean gear between trips to prevent spread.