Full Day Royal Gorge Rafting Adventure in Colorado
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate physical fitness, able to paddle for several hours and handle basic swimming skills.
Overview
Ready for a whitewater adventure? Paddle through Bighorn Sheep Canyon before conquering the thrilling rapids of the Royal Gorge with Raft Masters. Get ready for a day full of excitement and stunning views!
Full Day Royal Gorge
7.5 Hours • Ages 14 and up • Difficulty: Intermediate/Advanced • Starts Mild, Ends Wild
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Experience an exhilarating full day of whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River! Begin with a scenic float through Bighorn Sheep Canyon, spotting wildlife, before tackling the thrilling rapids of the Royal Gorge. Navigate steep drops and massive waves, creating unforgettable memories while enjoying a provided lunch and complimentary photos.
WHY CHOOSE THE FULL DAY ROYAL GORGE?
If you’re looking for a full day of whitewater adventure, this trip is for you! You also have the opportunity to “warm up” on some milder rapids before taking on the adventures of the Royal Gorge during the second half of your trip.
Duration
Approx. 7.5 hrs total (5 hrs on the water)
Difficulty
Difficulty: Intermediate/Advanced Class II-VRapids Age: 14 and up (may vary due to water levels)
THE RUN DOWN
Your journey will begin with rafting the Bighorn Sheep Canyon on the Arkansas River. You will enjoy watching for bighorn sheep as you prepare to navigate rapids like Five Points, Spike Buck, and Cowgirl Up. After lunch, get ready to hit the big stuff on the famous Royal Gorge section. The gorge narrows to only 25 feet wide and reaches up to 1,100 feet deep.
You and your crew will navigate this adventurous section famous for its steep drops, huge waves, and unforgettable rapids like Sunshine Falls, Sledge Hammer, and Boat Eater. Upon exiting the canyon, the water calms and you’ll find yourself arriving in Cañon City and heading back on a very short bus ride to Raft Masters. You’ll have the opportunity to purchase souvenirs for your friends and family and view the action-packed photos taken of you and your group on the biggest rapid of your trip.
Included with your trip!
- Free lunch: Raft Masters will provide lunch halfway through your trip.
- Free photos: A third-party company takes photos of our rafting tours and you will receive a link at the conclusion of your trip to download them online.
- Free Gear Rental: Raft Masters provides wetsuits, river shoes, and splash jackets to all guests, free of charge.
Free photos Memorial Day through Labor Day only. Raft Masters is not responsible for photos that are missing or that may not be to your satisfaction.
More info
Check In Failure to arrive within 15 minutes of your check-in time will result in the cancellation of your trip.
What Does Raft Masters Provide? Raft Masters offers complimentary use of wetsuits, splash jackets, and river shoes. Helmets and life jackets are also required and provided.
What to Bring You may bring sunglasses, a sunglasses retainer (i.e. Chums), sunscreen, lip balm, and a dry change of clothes for after your trip. These are all available for purchase in our gift shop.
How Many Guests Per Boat? We typically fit 6-8 guests per boat depending on water levels and trip selection.
Adventure Tips
Wear quick-drying clothing
Choose synthetic or moisture-wicking materials to stay comfortable on the water.
Arrive early for orientation
Give yourself extra time to get fitted with gear and receive safety instructions.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Protect your skin while preventing harm to the river ecosystem.
Keep hydrated throughout the day
Bring a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of fluids before and after rafting.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bighorn sheep spotted frequently along canyon walls
- Peregrine falcons soaring above the gorge
History
The Royal Gorge holds cultural significance for local Native American tribes and was later shaped by pioneering railroad construction in the 19th century.
Conservation
Raft Masters follows strict Leave No Trace principles to protect the river ecosystem and partners in local efforts to preserve wildlife habitats along the Arkansas River.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Colorado Springs
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Quick-dry clothing
Dries quickly and keeps you comfortable when wet.
summer specific
Waterproof camera or phone case
Protects your electronics while capturing memories on the river.
Sunscreen
Prevents sunburn during long hours on open water.
summer specific
Water shoes
Provides grip and protects feet on slippery river terrain.