Cañon City: Royal Gorge Rafting with Wetsuit, Lunch & Photos

Cañon City’s Royal Gorge Rafting tour with Wetsuit, Lunch & Photos offers a lively and accessible way to explore Colorado’s iconic Arkansas River. Priced at $157 per person and lasting approximately 4 hours, this adventure is perfect for those seeking excitement without prior experience. The tour features steep drops, big waves, and continuous Class III to V rapids within the breathtaking 1,100-foot cliffs of the Royal Gorge. We appreciate that all essentials—river gear, transportation, and a BBQ lunch—are included, making this a convenient and straightforward option. However, some reviews highlight potential inconsistencies, so it’s worth noting that the experience may vary.

This tour is ideal for families and groups looking for a fun outdoor activity in Cañon City. It offers professional guidance, free gear, and photos of your ride, with the added benefit of being wheelchair accessible and suitable for those without previous rafting experience. While it’s a great choice for thrill-seekers and first-timers alike, a few reviews indicate that some guests might find the experience less fulfilling if expectations aren’t fully met.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package with river gear, transportation, and lunch for $157.
• 4-hour experience featuring Class III to V rapids in the Royal Gorge.
• Includes a BBQ lunch of hotdogs and hamburgers and digital photos of your trip.
• No prior experience needed; suitable for families and groups.
• Free wetsuits, shoes, and splash jackets provided.
• Accessible for wheelchair users and those with limited fitness levels.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Royal Gorge Location and Easy Access in Cañon City

The tour departs from Raft Masters, located in a red building with a large parking lot in Cañon City. Its proximity to Colorado Springs and Pueblo makes it an accessible choice for visitors staying in nearby towns. Once checked in, guests are guided through gear fitting and safety instructions before heading to the river. The short bus ride transports everyone to the starting point on the Arkansas River, where the adventure begins.

What the Rafting Adventure in Royal Gorge Entails

The rafting journey starts with a safety briefing and paddle instructions from experienced guides. After getting into the boats, you enjoy a brief float to warm up, during which you meet your guide and learn paddle techniques. The real excitement begins as the river narrows to only 25 feet wide and the gorge’s steep cliffs surround you.

Rafting through the famous rapids—including Sunshine Falls, Sledge Hammer, and Boat Eater—delivers big waves and action-packed drops. These sections are what make this trip stand out, especially for thrill-seekers. Once past the most intense rapids, the water calms, and the boat glides into calmer sections, giving everyone a chance to relax and take in the stunning scenery of the 1100-foot deep canyon.

Included Amenities and Gear

All guests receive free river gear—wetsuits, splash jackets, and river shoes—to ensure comfort and safety. The life jackets and helmets are professionally fitted before the trip begins. Transportation to the river, as well as restrooms at the office, are included, making logistics straightforward. Guests can also browse the gift shop and purchase souvenirs or additional photos if desired.

The Lunch Experience and Photos

A notable perk is the complimentary BBQ lunch, served either before or after the rafting, depending on the trip time. The menu includes hotdogs or hamburgers, along with chips, a cookie, and a fountain drink. If you’re on the morning trip, the lunch is served after the adventure, while afternoon guests enjoy it beforehand. Photos of your rapid adventure are taken by a third-party company and provided via an online link for download, allowing you to relive the excitement.

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Timing, Pacing, and Group Size

Most trips are scheduled for 4 hours, with options available in the morning or afternoon. The typical group size is 6-8 guests per boat, depending on water levels, ensuring everyone gets a good experience. The tour is designed to be paced for safety and fun, with guides leading each group through the rapids and ensuring clear safety instructions.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

This tour is not suitable for children under 12 years, pregnant women, or individuals with limited fitness levels. However, it is wheelchair accessible, broadening accessibility for some guests. The physical effort involves paddling and remaining seated in the raft, which most should manage comfortably, especially with prior guidance.

Strengths and Limitations of the Experience

The main strengths of this tour are the professional guides, the all-inclusive gear, and the spectacular scenery of the Royal Gorge. The free photos and lunch add value, making it a convenient and enjoyable outing.

However, some reviews mention inconsistencies, such as being promised lunch and photos but receiving only one photo and no lunch in some cases. Plus, the number of guests per boat can sometimes differ from expectations, and the experience may not be as seamless for all participants. These factors suggest that, while generally positive, the tour can vary depending on specific circumstances.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This rafting experience suits families, groups, and first-timers eager to try whitewater activities in Colorado. It offers a safe introduction to rapid rafting, combined with scenic views and value-added amenities. Those seeking adventure combined with comfort will find this tour both exciting and manageable.

The Sum Up: An Accessible and Exciting Royal Gorge Rafting Trip

The Cañon City Royal Gorge Rafting tour provides an engaging way to explore one of Colorado’s most dramatic river sections. The all-inclusive package, featuring professional guides, free gear, lunch, and photos, makes it a practical choice for most visitors.

While some guests have noted minor inconsistencies in the experience, the overall thrill of navigating the steep rapids and seeing the towering cliffs remains a highlight. It’s especially suitable for families and groups looking for an adventure that’s accessible and fun. Remember to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a change of clothes, and your camera, to capture the excitement.

This tour offers a balanced mix of adrenaline, scenery, and convenience, making it a reliable option for those wanting a memorable Colorado river adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is previous rafting experience required?
No, this tour is designed for beginners and requires no prior experience.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a towel, a dry change of clothes, and a camera. All river gear is provided.

Are there any age or health restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with low fitness levels.

What is included in the price?
The $157 fee covers transportation, river gear, safety equipment, lunch (if scheduled), and photos.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is accessible for wheelchair users.

What is the group size?
Typically, 6-8 guests per boat, depending on water conditions.

Where do I meet for the tour?
At Raft Masters, identifiable by its red building and large parking lot in Cañon City.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby