Bighorn Sheep Canyon Rafting: A Full-Day Adventure on Colorado’s Arkansas River
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for anyone comfortable with physical activity including light paddling, sitting in a raft all day, and handling occasional splashes and swims.
Overview
Experience an exhilarating full-day rafting journey down Colorado’s Arkansas River through Bighorn Sheep Canyon. Perfect for families and first-timers, this trip combines approachable rapids with stunning desert cliffs and a river that invites both wild thrills and refreshing swims.
Bighorn Sheep Canyon Rafting: A Full-Day Adventure on Colorado’s Arkansas River
Select participants and date
Sunlight filters through rugged canyon walls as the Arkansas River carves its path beneath towering cliffs. Here in Bighorn Sheep Canyon, the day unfolds on 18 miles of lively Class II-III rapids, where the river dares you to keep pace. Starting just outside Canon City, Colorado, this full-day rafting excursion offers an ideal blend of adrenaline and scenic calm, perfectly suited for first-time rafters and families seeking approachable whitewater thrills.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Wear secure footwear with heel straps
Shoes or sandals with heel straps are essential to prevent loss during rapids and provide grip on slippery surfaces.
Bring quick-dry or synthetic clothing
Synthetic layers or swimwear will help keep you comfortable wet and dry quickly after river stops.
Apply waterproof sunscreen
The sun reflects off the water and canyon walls, increasing UV exposure—reapply regularly throughout the day.
Hydrate before and after rafting
River time can be physically demanding; drink water before the trip and have fluids ready afterward to recover properly.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bighorn sheep often spotted on cliffs
- Mule deer grazing near the riverbanks
History
The Arkansas River has been a vital waterway for indigenous tribes and gold miners, shaping the development of Canon City and this region.
Conservation
Tours follow strict guidelines to minimize impact on the river ecosystem, helping preserve local wildlife habitats and water quality.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Canon City
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof bag or dry sack
Protects belongings from water during rafting and swim stops.
summer specific
Quick-dry clothing or swimwear
Dries quickly and keeps you comfortable throughout the day.
summer specific
Secure water shoes with heel straps
Provides stability and safety on river rocks and during rapids.
Polarized sunglasses with strap
Reduces glare off water and protects eyes, with a strap to avoid loss in the river.
summer specific