What adventures are available near Royal Gorge?

Epic Adventures offers world-class outdoor experiences in the Royal Gorge area including Class III-V whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River, zipline tours near the Royal Gorge, luxury glamping and vacation rentals (yurts, cabins, Airstreams), and scenic helicopter tours over the Rocky Mountains.

What is the best time to visit Royal Gorge for outdoor adventures?

The peak season for Royal Gorge adventures runs from April through September. Whitewater rafting is best from mid-April through late September when Arkansas River flows are optimal. Zipline tours and helicopter tours operate spring through fall. Glamping and vacation rentals are available year-round.

How do I book multiple activities at Epic Adventures?

You can browse and book all Epic Adventures experiences directly on this site. Bundle multiple activities for the best value: combine rafting, ziplining, lodging, and more in one trip. Our booking platform lets you select dates, group sizes, and package multiple adventures together.

Are Epic Adventures activities family-friendly?

Yes! Epic Adventures offers experiences for all ages and skill levels. Bighorn Sheep Canyon rafting (Class II-III) is ideal for families with children aged 6+. The Royal Gorge zipline tours have options suitable for older children and adults. Our vacation rentals accommodate families of all sizes, and helicopter tours are suitable for all ages.

What is the minimum age for whitewater rafting?

For Bighorn Sheep Canyon (Class II-IV), the minimum age is 6 years old (8+ during high water). For Royal Gorge (Class III-V), the minimum age is 13 years old (16+ during high water in late May/June).

Do I need to know how to swim to go rafting?

Swimming ability is recommended but not required. All participants wear Coast Guard approved life jackets, and our professional guides provide comprehensive safety briefings. We are the only company with safety kayakers on every trip.

What should I bring for my rafting trip?

We provide all necessary equipment including wetsuits, splash jackets, booties, helmets, and life jackets. You should bring sunscreen, sunglasses with a strap, and a change of clothes. Leave valuables in your car.

When is the best time to go rafting in Colorado?

The rafting season runs April 15 through October 15. Peak season (late May-July) offers higher water and bigger rapids. Summer (July-August) provides a great balance of excitement and accessibility. Fall (September-October) features lower water, warmer temperatures, and stunning fall colors.

How long are the rafting trips?

Bighorn Sheep Canyon trips are approximately 3 hours on the river. Royal Gorge trips are available as half-day (approximately 3 hours) or full-day (approximately 6 hours with lunch included) options.

Colorado Whitewater Rafting

Take on the Rapids

Experience world-class whitewater on Colorado's mighty Arkansas River. From the legendary Class III-V Royal Gorge to family-friendly Bighorn Sheep Canyon, your adventure awaits.

Book Now

1,000 ft

Canyon Walls

Class II-V

Rapids for All Levels

1 Hour

From Colorado Springs

10 Miles

Royal Gorge Run

Choose Your River Adventure

From heart-pounding Class V rapids to family-friendly floats, we have the perfect trip for every skill level.

Class III-V

Cañon City, COHalf-day or Full-day

Royal Gorge

Colorado's Most Iconic Rafting Experience

Paddle through 1,000-foot canyon walls beneath the world-famous Royal Gorge Bridge. This adrenaline-pumping adventure features Class III-V rapids including Sunshine Falls, Sledgehammer, and Wall Slammer.

Paddle beneath the Royal Gorge Bridge
Class III-V rapids for experienced rafters
10 miles of stunning canyon scenery
All equipment and safety gear included
Professional guides with safety kayakers

Book Royal Gorge Build a Package

Class II-IV

Cañon City, CO3 Hours

Bighorn Sheep Canyon

Perfect for Families & First-Timers

A thrilling yet accessible introduction to whitewater rafting. Navigate exciting Class II-IV rapids while spotting bighorn sheep on the canyon walls and enjoying breathtaking Colorado scenery.

Family-friendly adventure (ages 6+)
Class II-IV rapids: fun for all skill levels
Wildlife viewing opportunities
All equipment and safety gear included
Perfect introduction to whitewater

Book Bighorn Sheep Canyon Build a Package

Adventure Expert

Need Help Planning?

Our adventure experts are here to help you plan the perfect Colorado getaway.

(719) 275-7238 info@royalgorgerafting.net Book Your Adventure

Available: Mon-Sun 8am-6pm MT

Famous Rapids You'll Conquer

Each rapid tells a story. Here are some of the legendary features you'll experience on your adventure.

Class III-VRoyal Gorge

Sunshine FallsClass III-V
The notorious first rapid: Class III-IV at normal flows, approaching Class V at 3000+ cfs.
SledgehammerClass IV
Features 'Bird Drop': an eight-foot vertical plunge giving a brief moment of weightlessness.
Wall SlammerClass IV
Tricky at low water with 'The Vortex' feature pulling you toward the wall.
The NarrowsClass IV
Three consecutive rapids where 1,000ft canyon walls close in for an intense ride.

Class II-IVBighorn Sheep Canyon

Wake UpClass III
Gets your adrenaline pumping right from the start: the perfect warm-up rapid!
Three RocksClass III
Navigate between three boulders with precision: great for reading the river.
SpikebuckClass III
Named for the bighorn sheep you might spot grazing on the canyon walls.
Sharks ToothClass III-IV
A thrilling finale to your canyon adventure with exciting wave trains!

Everything You Need is Included

Professional certified guides

Coast Guard approved life jackets

Wetsuits & splash jackets

Helmets & booties

Safety kayakers on every trip

Transportation to put-in

Photos available for purchase

Hot showers & changing facilities

Expert Guides

Our guides are CPR & swift-water rescue certified with years of experience on the Arkansas River.

Professional Excellence

Only outfitter with kayak support on every trip. Your experience is our top priority.

All Gear Included

Wetsuits, splash jackets, booties, helmets, and life jackets: all provided and properly fitted.

When to Raft the Arkansas

Our rafting season runs April 15 through October 15. Each time of year offers a unique experience.

Peak Season (May-July)

Higher water levels mean bigger rapids and maximum excitement. Best for thrill-seekers!

Summer (July-August)

Perfect balance of excitement and accessibility. Warmer water temps and sunny skies.

Fall (Sept-Oct)

Lower water, warmer temps, stunning fall colors. A more relaxed but beautiful experience.

Where to Meet: Arrival & Check-In

Meet us at our rafting basecamp, 45045 W US Hwy 50, Canon City, CO 81212.

Please arrive 30-45 minutes before your scheduled trip time for check-in, waivers, and gear fitting. Free parking is available at the basecamp.

What Our Guests Say

Real reviews from real adventurers

“We thoroughly enjoyed our rafting trip on the Arkansas River. Our guide was fabulous: helpful, patient, and talented. He made our experience exciting, fun, and safe!”

By Group of 6 friends, 50-year reunion

“First time rafting, wasn't sure how our 7 year old would do. He had an amazing time! Just enough Class 3 rapids to make it fun for the whole family. Highly recommend!”

By Family from Texas

“We had a fantastic trip through the Royal Gorge. Would go again in a heartbeat. Excitement and adventure in a gorgeous place!”

By Verified Guest

See It From Above

After conquering the rapids, see the Royal Gorge from 1,000 feet above! Our helicopter tours offer breathtaking aerial views of the canyon you just rafted through.

Book a Helicopter Tour

Make It a Weekend

Extend your adventure with a stay at our riverside lodging. Wake up to mountain views and fall asleep to the sound of the river.

Luxury Cabins

Full kitchens, hot tubs, stunning views

Riverside Yurts

Glamping with riverside access

Premium Airstreams

Retro cool meets modern comfort

View Lodging Options

Ready to Take on the Rapids?

Book your whitewater adventure today and experience Colorado's most exciting rafting destination.

Book Your Trip Now Dine After Your Adventure