Royal Gorge Full Day Trip - Starting Point: Performance Tours Rafting in Cañon City

Royal Gorge Full Day Trip

Experience a full day of whitewater rafting in Colorado’s Royal Gorge with expert guides, all equipment included, and stunning canyon views for $159.84.

A full-day adventure in the Royal Gorge offers an exciting way to explore Colorado’s most famous canyon. Priced at $159.84 per person, this 8-hour tour in Cañon City combines thrilling whitewater rafting with expert guidance and all necessary gear included. The tour departs at 9:30 am from Performance Tours Rafting, making it ideal for those seeking a comprehensive day of adventure.

With a perfect 5.0 rating based on 21 reviews, this trip is highly recommended, with travelers praising the professionalism of guides, the safety of the experience, and the breathtaking scenery. The tour is well-suited for physically fit individuals aged 16 and over, with a maximum of 100 participants. It’s a popular choice, often booked 96 days in advance, emphasizing its reputation and demand.

While the trip is packed with excitement and stunning views, it’s important to dress appropriately for changing weather conditions and to have a good physical fitness level. The all-inclusive nature and knowledgeable guides make it a trustworthy option for families, groups, or solo thrill-seekers eager for an authentic Colorado adventure.

Key Points

Royal Gorge Full Day Trip - Key Points

  • Full-day rafting experience lasts approximately 8 hours in the Royal Gorge.
  • All equipment and guidance included, with lunch provided midday.
  • Guided commentary enhances understanding of the area’s ecosystem and history.
  • Tour departs at 9:30 am from Performance Tours Rafting in Cañon City.
  • Suitable for ages 16 and up with a strong physical fitness requirement.
  • This tour has consistently earned praise for expert guides and breathtaking canyon views.

The Excitement of Colorado’s Royal Gorge

Royal Gorge Full Day Trip - The Excitement of Colorado’s Royal Gorge

The Royal Gorge is known for its 1,100-foot-deep canyon, providing a dramatic backdrop for this rafting adventure. The tour takes you through unfamiliar terrain with all necessary safety equipment supplied, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Paddling beneath the world’s highest suspension bridge is a highlight that gives this trip a unique edge over other outdoor activities.

Passengers enjoy guided commentary about the local ecosystem and history, adding layers of understanding to the stunning scenery. This full-day experience maximizes time on the water, balancing thrilling rapids with moments of calm floatation.

Starting Point: Performance Tours Rafting in Cañon City

Royal Gorge Full Day Trip - Starting Point: Performance Tours Rafting in Cañon City

The tour begins at the Performance Tours Rafting meeting point, a central location in Cañon City, easily accessible for visitors. Travelers meet here at 9:30 am, ready for an adventure that includes professional guides, lunch, and all necessary equipment. The meeting process is straightforward, and the tour ends back at the same spot for convenience.

The tour can accommodate up to 100 people, making it suitable for both small groups and larger parties. Since the activity requires confirmation at the time of booking, it’s advisable to reserve well in advance, especially during the peak booking period 96 days ahead.

What’s Included and What to Expect During the Day

Royal Gorge Full Day Trip - What’s Included and What to Expect During the Day

The trip includes professional guides who supervise and provide commentary throughout the day, making sure safety remains a top priority. All necessary equipment—including paddles, life jackets, and helmets—is provided, so visitors only need to dress appropriately for the weather.

A midday lunch keeps paddlers energized for the afternoon rapids, featuring a meal that sustains the physical effort required. Souvenir photos are available for purchase if visitors want to capture their memories, though they are not included in the price.

The end of the trip is at the original meeting point, making logistics simple for participants. The tour is designed to be engaging from start to finish, with plenty of opportunities to soak in the spectacular views of the canyon walls and the suspension bridge overhead.

Navigating the Rapids: From Class II to Class IV

Royal Gorge Full Day Trip - Navigating the Rapids: From Class II to Class IV

The rafting route features a mix of Class II and Class III rapids, with some Class IV sections in the afternoon for more experienced paddlers. The trip balances thrilling rapid sections with calmer stretches, allowing guests to enjoy breathtaking scenery and float moments.

The guides are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, seamlessly guiding through each rapid while sharing interesting facts about the area. For families with children or less experienced rafters, the trip’s structure offers both excitement and safety.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Engaging

Royal Gorge Full Day Trip - The Guides: Knowledgeable and Engaging

The guides are a standout feature of this trip. Many reviews highlight their professionalism, entertaining commentary, and safety-conscious approach. Guides like PJ, Drew, Joe, Cheyenne, and others are frequently mentioned for their friendly demeanor, expertise, and ability to make everyone feel comfortable.

Their stories and explanations about the Royal Gorge’s geology, flora and fauna, and local history enrich the experience, transforming a scenic float into an educational adventure.

Safety and Physical Fitness Requirements

Royal Gorge Full Day Trip - Safety and Physical Fitness Requirements

This full-day rafting trip is designed for participants with a strong physical fitness level. The minimum age is 16 years, and a moderate degree of physical activity is expected due to the paddling and movement involved. Safety is prioritized, with all necessary gear provided and guides meticulously supervising the trip.

Dress appropriately for changing weather conditions, as temperatures and weather can vary unexpectedly along the canyon. The experience is suitable for those who enjoy an active outdoor challenge but are comfortable with water-based activities.

Lunch and Breaks: Fuel for the Day

Royal Gorge Full Day Trip - Lunch and Breaks: Fuel for the Day

A midday lunch is included to keep everyone energized for the remaining hours of paddling and rapids. This meal is an important part of the full-day experience, offering a chance to rest and socialize. The reviews note the quality of the lunch, which contributes to the overall value of the trip.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Royal Gorge Full Day Trip - Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing peace of mind if plans change. Cancellations made less than 24 hours prior are non-refundable, emphasizing the importance of timely planning.

Weather can impact the trip, and if canceled due to poor conditions, travelers are offered a different date or a full refund. This policy ensures safety and flexibility, making it easier to plan your adventure without stress.

Who Should Book This Tour

This full-day rafting trip is ideal for those seeking a combination of adventure, scenery, and education. It suits active individuals comfortable with water activities and strong physical effort. Families with older children, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a trustworthy guided experience will find this tour particularly rewarding.

The expert guides, stunning canyon views, and well-organized itinerary make this trip stand out in the Colorado outdoor activity scene. Its consistent high ratings reflect the quality of the experience and the attention to safety and comfort.

Royal Gorge Full Day Trip: An Adventure Worth Booking

This tour delivers a robust, well-organized experience packed with spectacular scenery and adrenaline rushes. The expert guides and comprehensive inclusions—lunch and equipment—add to its appeal.

While it is ideal for physically active participants, the trip offers enough excitement and safety measures to satisfy beginners and experienced rafters alike. The breathtaking views of the canyon and the thrill of paddling beneath the world’s highest suspension bridge make it a highlight of Colorado’s outdoor offerings.

Travelers who value professional guides, great value for money, and a full-day adventure will find this trip a worthwhile investment in their Colorado itinerary.

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Royal Gorge Full Day Trip



5.0

(21 reviews)

100% 5-star

“A must on the TO DO List. We had 7 of us and so we took two rafts. One raft guide was Brice, and our adult kids absolutely loved him! We had Jam…”

— A Tripadvisor Reviewer, May 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the Royal Gorge Full Day Trip?
The tour costs $159.84 per person, which includes all equipment, guidance, and lunch.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day rafting experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a midday lunch is included to keep participants energized for the afternoon rapids.

What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be at least 16 years old.

Do I need to be physically fit?
Yes, a strong physical fitness level is recommended due to paddling and movement requirements.

What equipment is provided?
All necessary rafting gear—including paddles, life jackets, and helmets—is supplied.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests may cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours prior are non-refundable.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins and ends at Performance Tours Rafting in Cañon City.

Can I buy souvenir photos?
Yes, souvenir photos are available for purchase but are not included in the tour price.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, provided participants are 16 or older and in good physical condition.

What makes this trip stand out?
Its expert guides, stunning canyon views, and the chance to raft under the world’s highest suspension bridge set this tour apart.