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

If you’re looking for a whitewater adventure that combines adrenaline, stunning scenery, and family-friendly fun, the Royal Gorge rafting trip offered by Raft Masters in Cañon City might just be your next must-do. While I haven’t personally tried this tour, the reviews and itinerary paint a clear picture of an engaging experience suited for a range of thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

What makes this tour stand out are its inclusive features—such as free gear, a delicious BBQ lunch, and digital photos of your trip—that add value and convenience. Plus, the proximity to Colorado Springs and Pueblo makes it a practical day trip. However, some guests have pointed out inconsistencies in group arrangements and the availability of certain promised amenities, so it’s worth keeping expectations flexible. This adventure appeals most to those eager to enjoy accessible, guided whitewater rafting with plenty of friendly support along the way.

Good To Know

Inclusive features like free wetsuits, lunch, and photos add value to your booking.
Proximity to Colorado Springs and Pueblo makes it an easy, convenient day trip.
Suitable for families and groups with no prior rafting experience required.
Group sizes typically range from 6-8 guests per boat, fostering a lively, social experience.
The trip includes safety gear, professional guides, and transportation, ensuring a smooth adventure.
Some reviews mention inconsistencies in group placements and amenities, so read reviews carefully.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from your Royal Gorge Rafting Trip

The adventure begins in Cañon City at the Raft Masters office, conveniently located with ample parking. Check-in is straightforward, and the staff are friendly and eager to help you get ready. For morning trips, the day kicks off with a BBQ lunch of burgers and hot dogs, served between 11 am and 12:30 pm, which is a real treat after your time on the water. If you’re on an afternoon schedule, you’ll enjoy this meal beforehand.

Once checked in, you’ll be fitted with your professional life jacket, ensuring safety and comfort. The staff will also provide helmets and river gear, including wetsuits, river shoes, and splash jackets, all provided free of charge—meaning you won’t need to bring your own or pay extra for these essentials.

The transportation to the river is handled by a dedicated bus, which takes you from the office to the starting point on the Arkansas River. The guides will give a safety briefing, paddle instructions, and a brief float to help you get comfortable. This is especially helpful for beginners or those new to rafting.

The Heart of the Experience: Navigating the Royal Gorge

As you enter the gorge, the scenery becomes breathtaking. Towering 1,100-foot cliffs surround the river, creating an awe-inspiring backdrop for your adventure. The river narrows dramatically to just 25 feet wide, setting the stage for some of Colorado’s most exciting rapids.

The trip features classic Class III to Class V rapids, including well-known names like Sunshine Falls, Sledge Hammer, and Boat Eater. These rapids are famous for their steep drops, huge waves, and dynamic splashy action. The guides are experienced and friendly, eager to keep everyone safe while making sure you have a blast. They’ll help you navigate the rapids and teach paddle strokes, making this accessible even for first-timers.

One reviewer mentioned that their group was assured they’d all be on the same raft, but this did not happen due to water level constraints. This is something to keep in mind if you’re traveling with friends or family, as group placements can sometimes vary. Another reviewer pointed out some confusion over the availability of wetsuits, lunch, and photos, which suggests that experiences may fluctuate slightly from trip to trip.

Highlights of the Trip

The Rapids

The highlight for most is undoubtedly the big rapid of the trip—an adrenaline-pumping section where you’ll get soaked, screamed with delight, and create memorable moments. The photos taken during this rapid are a popular souvenir, with one reviewer noting they received a digital download of a single shot, while others mentioned the opportunity to purchase additional photos and videos.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Scenic Gorge

Beyond the whitewater, the spectacular scenery of the Royal Gorge is worth mentioning. The sheer cliffs, rugged rock formations, and wildlife sightings make the entire float visually stunning.

The Inclusive Amenities

The tour’s free gear rental is a significant advantage, allowing you to stay warm and dry without extra costs. The included lunch (hot dogs and hamburgers) is a nice touch, especially after a morning on the river. The digital photos offer a fun way to remember your trip, with some guests saying the photos captured the best rapid of their adventure.

Practical Details and Tips

Duration and Group Size

The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours, which includes check-in, transportation, safety briefings, the rafting itself, and the lunch or post-rafting meal. Typically, groups are limited to 6-8 guests per boat, fostering an energetic and social atmosphere.

Price and Value

At $157 per person, this tour offers a good balance of value considering all included amenities—gear, food, photos, and guided instruction. While some reviews hint at occasional inconsistencies, the overall package provides a comprehensive adventure at a competitive price for a guided, all-inclusive whitewater trip.

What to Bring

Be sure to pack sunglasses (with a retainer), sunscreen, lip balm, and a dry change of clothes for after the trip. A camera is a must to capture the scenery and action shots. Waterproof bags or cases are recommended for valuables, especially if you plan to take photos during the rapid.

Accessibility

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal to a wider range of participants. However, it is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with low fitness levels, as the activity involves physical exertion and safety considerations.

Authentic Experiences and Reviewer Insights

Various guests have shared their honest opinions, revealing both highlights and areas for improvement. One guest called it an “outstanding experience” and a “must-do,” praising the fun and energy of the trip. Conversely, another review expressed disappointment over not receiving the promised lunch or photos, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and consistent service.

An interesting insight from a reviewer was the discrepancy in group placements, citing that despite assurances of all being on the same raft, this was not always true. This highlights the importance of managing expectations, especially during busier water levels or late-season trips.

The tour’s focus on safety, friendly guides, and beautiful scenery make it an appealing choice for those seeking an accessible yet exciting whitewater outing.

The Sum Up

This Royal Gorge rafting trip offers a lively, guided adventure with plenty of inclusions to keep the experience hassle-free. Perfect for families, groups, or solo travelers looking for a manageable, fun-filled day in Colorado’s stunning canyon landscape, it combines thrilling rapids with spectacular views. The well-organized logistics, free gear, and yummy lunch elevate the experience, making it a good value—especially if you’re keen on capturing the action with photos.

While some guests have noted minor inconsistencies in group placement and amenities, these don’t overshadow the overall enjoyment of a scenic, adrenaline-pumping river trip. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable with moderate physical activity and eager to try whitewater rafting in a safe, guided environment.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving an outdoor adventure, this tour delivers a memorable splash of Colorado’s wild side.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, all experience levels are welcome. Guides will provide paddle instructions and safety briefings, making it accessible even for first-timers.

How many guests are typically in one boat?
Most boats hold 6-8 guests, allowing for a lively and interactive experience, with plenty of opportunity to bond with your group.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transportation, life jackets, helmets, wetsuits, river shoes, splash jackets, a BBQ lunch, and digital photos of your trip.

Can I bring my own gear?
While you can bring your own camera or sunglasses, all necessary safety gear and wetsuits are provided free of charge.

What if I don’t want to buy extra photos?
You will receive a digital download of one photo taken during the trip. Additional photos and videos are available for purchase.

How long does the trip last?
The total experience lasts about 4 hours, including check-in, safety instructions, rafting, and lunch or post-trip relaxation.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, this activity is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or individuals with low fitness levels.

What should I bring?
Pack sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, a towel, dry clothes, and a camera. Water and sunscreen are also recommended to stay comfortable and protected during the trip.

From stunning scenery to exhilarating rapids and friendly guides, the Royal Gorge rafting tour offers a well-rounded adventure in Colorado’s famous canyon. Keep expectations in check, come prepared, and you’re sure to enjoy a memorable day on the river.

You can check if your dates are available here: