THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover the thrill of Class III/IV rapids in Bighorn Sheep Canyon, just outside Colorado Springs. Perfect for families and beginners, this full-day rafting trip promises stunning scenery and exciting water adventures.
Discover the thrill of Class III/IV rapids in Bighorn Sheep Canyon, just outside Colorado Springs. Perfect for families and beginners, this full-day rafting trip promises stunning scenery and exciting water adventures.
Book with River Runners
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by River Runners · Cañon City, Colorado
Bighorn Sheep Canyon, located just an hour from Colorado Springs, is a prime spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline rush combined with breathtaking scenery. This full-day rafting trip, offered by River Runners, is tailored for families, beginners, and anyone looking to enjoy Colorado's iconic waterways. As you step into the raft, you'll be greeted by the canyon’s towering sandstone walls and lush riverbanks, which create a striking backdrop for your adventure. The river here boasts a lively mix of Class III and IV rapids, providing just the right balance of excitement and accessibility for novices. The water's current shuttles you past geological formations that tell stories of ancient sediment layers, while glimpses of local wildlife—bald eagles, osprey, and herons—add to the immersion. The guided experience includes a catered lunch onshore, giving you time to rest, soak in the scenery, and swap stories with your crew. What makes Bighorn Sheep Canyon especially unique is its combination of manageable rapids and stunning geological features, making it a standout destination for both thrill-seekers and those appreciating Colorado’s rugged beauty. The canyon’s close proximity to Colorado Springs makes it an ideal day trip, offering a quick getaway into the wild. Whether you're new to rafting or returning for a trusted adventure, River Runners ensures safety with expert guides and top-quality equipment. This trip isn’t just a challenge; it’s a full sensory experience that captures the essence of Colorado’s iconic river landscape and leaves visitors with unforgettable memories of their time on the water.
easy.
6–8 hours.
Moderate physical fitness needed; able to sit and paddle for several hours
Absolutely — it's designed for beginners and families, with guides ensuring safety and fun.
Wear quick-drying clothes, water shoes, and bring sun protection for a comfortable experience.
Yes, a catered lunch is provided as part of the full-day adventure.
Yes, all participants are supplied with high-quality life jackets and safety gear.
Trips are flexible and can be rescheduled if necessary for safety.
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled start time.
Bighorn Sheep Canyon has been a popular whitewater route since the 1970s and is named for the bighorn sheep frequently spotted in the area.
River Runners emphasize Leave No Trace principles, ensuring minimal impact on the pristine canyon environment.
River Runners is a Buena Vista, Colorado outfitter specializing in guided whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River. The company offers a diverse lineup of half-day and full-day experiences that serve families, beginners, and advanced paddlers. Signature routes include Browns Canyon National Monument, the Royal Gorge, Bighorn Sheep Canyon, and the Numbers section, covering river sections with Class II through Class V rapids. Trip options range from the gentle Family Float, a four-mile guided raft with splashy Class II rapids, to challenging runs like the Royal Gorge Half Day and the Numbers adventures that navigate Class IV–V whitewater. Several Browns Canyon and Bighorn Sheep full-day trips include catered riverside lunches, and the Browns Canyon full-day intermediate tour specifies deli-style lunch, provided gear, and transportation from the take-out back to the River Runners Browns Canyon outpost. Professional river guides lead each excursion, delivering safety briefings, paddling instruction, and local route knowledge. River Runners operates from a riverside Buena Vista outpost and departs for trips that showcase Colorado canyon scenery and Sawatch Mountain views. Trip descriptions list difficulty ratings and recommended experience levels; many half-day options state “no experience necessary,” making those trips accessible for first-timers and families. Reservation details, departure times, age recommendations, and equipment lists are available through River Runners’ booking channels. Booking online secures seats on specific dates and helps plan logistics for larger groups.
Book with River Runners