Experience the ultimate adventure with the Rail & Raft Royal Gorge tour, blending heart-pumping whitewater rafting with a scenic train ride through Colorado's rugged terrain. Discover why this trip is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness to handle paddling and physical activity involved.
Wildlife
History
The Royal Gorge has been a significant transportation route since the 1800s, with historic bridges and early railroads shaping the region.
Conservation
Raft Masters emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including minimal impact watercraft and leave-no-trace policies to preserve the natural beauty.
Raft Masters
Experience the ultimate adventure with the Rail & Raft Royal Gorge tour, blending heart-pumping whitewater rafting with a scenic train ride through Colorado's rugged terrain. Discover why this trip is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
Raft Masters is a Cañon City, Colorado-based river outfitter specializing in guided whitewater rafting and multi-activity packages on the Arkansas River. The company operates a diverse selection of trips that combine rafting with scenic train rides, guided jeep tours, family-friendly floats, and visits to the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park. Raft Masters partners with the Royal Gorge Route Railroad and local operators to deliver combined Rail & Raft and Jeep & Raft packages, offering coach or dome seating options, catered lunches, and varied difficulty levels from mild family floats to Class III-V whitewater runs.
Experienced river guides lead all trips, focusing on safety, environmental stewardship, and high-quality customer experiences. Groups can choose full-day adventures such as the Rail & Raft Royal Gorge or shorter family-oriented options like the Family Float Boat & Bridge. Special itineraries for Bighorn Sheep Canyon and guided Jeep tours on the Royal Gorge Loop broaden the range for different ages and skill levels. The company also offers standalone Royal Gorge Bridge and Train tickets for guests who prefer sightseeing.
With a base in Cañon City, Raft Masters emphasizes local knowledge of the Arkansas River corridor, convenient access to the Royal Gorge, and logistics that include on-site lunch options and photo opportunities. The outfitter is a practical choice for visitors seeking a trusted, third-party operator that coordinates multi-experience days combining scenic rail travel, guided jeep excursions, and guided whitewater rafting on Colorado's iconic river. Booking information and seasonal availability are provided on Raft Masters' official channels website.
Location
Cañon City, CO
Base of operations near Royal Gorge
River
Arkansas River
Runs through the Royal Gorge corridor
Tours Offered
11 packages
Rail, Jeep, Boat & Raft combos
Family Friendly
Kids 5-13
Family floats with BBQ lunch options
Reserve combined train, jeep, and rafting packages from Cañon City for a seamless full-day adventure on the Arkansas River.
Wear Quick-Drying Clothing
Opt for moisture-wicking clothes and water-resistant gear to stay comfortable during the rafting portion.
Listen Carefully to Guides
Pay close attention to safety instructions provided by your guides before hitting the rapids.
Bring a Dry Bag
Use a dry bag to store personal items and keep electronics safe during the water adventure.
Check Weather Conditions
Weather in Colorado can change quickly; verify forecast details before your trip to pack accordingly.
Personal Water Shoes
Protect your feet and provide good grip during water activities.
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Quick-Dry T-Shirt
Keeps you comfortable and dry after getting wet during the raft ride.
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Wetsuit (if cold)
Provides extra warmth if visiting during cooler months.
winter
Sunscreen and Sunglasses
Protect your skin and eyes from sun exposure on the water and during outdoor breaks.
spring|summer|fall|winter