Cañon City: Bighorn Rafting With Lunch, Wetsuit and Photos

If you’re considering a half-day of adventure on Colorado’s Arkansas River, the Bighorn Rafting trip with Raft Masters offers a friendly, fun-filled experience suitable for beginners and families alike. This tour promises a balance of excitement, comfort, and authentic adventure, all in a scenic setting just a short drive from Colorado Springs and Pueblo.

What makes this trip stand out? We love the inclusive nature—free wetsuits and gear, a complimentary BBQ lunch, and professional guides who make safety and fun their priorities. Plus, you’ll get a photo of your biggest rapid which is a nice souvenir to remember your trip. A potential downside? The wait before starting can sometimes feel long, but many find the overall experience well worth it. This tour is ideal for families, first-time rafters, or those looking for a relaxed yet exhilarating adventure.

Good To Know

• Family-Friendly: Suitable for children over age 5, making it perfect for a family outing.
• All-Inclusive Gear: Free wetsuits, splash jackets, and river shoes ensure comfort without extra cost.
• Scenic and Wildlife Viewing: Watch out for bighorn sheep and enjoy the beautiful Arkansas River scenery.
• Flexible Options: Available in both morning and afternoon sessions, with easy cancellation policies.
• Great Value: Includes transportation, guides, gear, a hot lunch, and a downloadable photo.
• Friendly Guides: Personalized attention and safety instructions from experienced guides like Emma and others.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Easy Booking and Convenient Location

Raft Masters is conveniently located in Canon City, in a bright red building with ample parking across the street. The check-in process is straightforward, with friendly staff guiding you through gear fitting and safety instructions. The tour’s proximity to Colorado Springs and Pueblo means you won’t spend hours driving to the start, giving you more time to enjoy your adventure.

The Day’s Itinerary

If you’re on a morning trip, plan to arrive early to enjoy the hot breakfast served at the Eddy Out Cafe before heading to the river. For afternoon trips, you’ll get your free BBQ lunch of burgers and hot dogs around 11:30 am, a highlight for many after some initial nerves. The relaxed pace of the check-in process helps reduce any pre-raft jitters, especially for first-timers.

Once geared up, your professional guide will fit your life jacket and give a safety briefing. This is a key moment—you’re reminded that safety is a priority, and guides like Emma are known for their friendly, clear instructions, which boost confidence for inexperienced paddlers.

The Transportation to the River

A comfortable bus transports you about a short distance to the Arkansas River. The ride offers scenic views and is usually included in the total tour time, which lasts approximately 4 hours from start to finish. Group sizes hover around 6-8 guests per boat, ensuring a manageable and personal experience, even during busy seasons.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Navigating the Rapids

Once on the river, you’ll paddle through roughly 9 miles of lively water, with prominent rapids like Five Points, Spike Buck, and Cowgirl Up promising splashy, fun moments. Reviewers mention the “splashy rapids” as a highlight, with one noting the guides’ skill in making sure everyone stays safe while having a blast.

Expect to see wildlife, notably bighorn sheep, which makes the scenery even more special. The guides are attentive, often scanning for animals or interesting sights along the riverbank, adding a touch of nature appreciation to the adventure.

The Guides and Group Atmosphere

Guides like Emma and others have received praise for their friendliness and professionalism. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide was very good,” highlighting the importance of an engaging and experienced guide for first-timers. They handle safety instructions and paddle commands with clarity, making sure everyone is confident before tackling the rapids.

The Photos and Souvenirs

Back at the office, you’ll have the chance to purchase action-packed photos of your group taken on the biggest rapid. Many guests find these photos are a fun way to remember their trip, and the online download makes sharing easy.

The Post-Rafting Experience

After the trip, you’ll return to the office where you can browse souvenirs, shirts, and snacks. If you’re on a morning trip, the BBQ lunch is a perfect way to relax and decompress. Many reviewers appreciated the casual atmosphere and the opportunity to chat about the ride while enjoying classic American fare.

Value and Overall Experience

At $146 per person, this trip offers excellent value given what’s included: transportation, all gear, guides, lunch, and photos. The fact that wetsuits, shoes, and splash jackets are free of charge is a bonus, especially considering the cool mountain water and variable weather.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This half-day rafting trip is best suited for families with children over age 5, first-time rafters, and anyone looking for a friendly, accessible adventure. The emphasis on safety, comfort, and fun makes it ideal for those who want a memorable experience without the intense, adrenaline-pumping rapids of more extreme trips.

It’s also perfect for travelers who value inclusive gear, good food, and the chance to see local wildlife while floating through scenic canyon landscapes. If you’re traveling with a group or family, the manageable group size and friendly guides help foster a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

The Cañon City Bighorn Rafting trip with Raft Masters offers a well-rounded, enjoyable introduction to whitewater rafting. You’ll benefit from professional guides, all-inclusive gear, a scenic journey, and friendly service—all at a fair price. The opportunity to see wildlife, splash through rapids, and enjoy a picnic lunch makes this a genuine highlight for first-timers and families alike.

While the wait before starting can sometimes be a bit long, many find the overall adventure is worth the delay. The trip’s flexible scheduling, along with the chance to download photos and purchase souvenirs, rounds out a thoughtful, fun experience that won’t disappoint.

For anyone seeking a safe, comfortable, and memorable introduction to Colorado’s rivers, this trip hits many of the right notes. It’s best for those who want a balance of adventure and relaxation, with plenty of opportunity for photos and bonding along the Arkansas River.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children? Yes, children over 5 years old can participate, making it a great family outing.

Are wetsuits and gear included? Yes, wetsuits, river shoes, and splash jackets are provided at no extra charge, ensuring comfort in cooler water conditions.

What should I bring? Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, a towel, and a dry change of clothes are recommended. All can be purchased at the gift shop if needed.

How long does the trip last? The entire experience from check-in to return is approximately 4 hours, including transportation, safety briefing, and the rafting itself.

What if I want photos of my trip? A third-party company takes photos during the rapids, and you’ll receive a link afterward to download your favorites.

Is the trip accessible for wheelchair users? Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm specific needs in advance.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Whether you’re seeking your first taste of Colorado’s wild rivers or just looking for a fun family adventure, this rafting trip delivers solid value, scenic beauty, and plenty of laughs.

You can check if your dates are available here: