Question 1

What is the best whitewater rafting trip for beginners?

Accepted Answer

The Bighorn Sheep Canyon trip is our most beginner-friendly option. It features Class II-III rapids - exciting but manageable for first-timers including families with kids ages 7 and up. No prior experience is required.

Question 2

What class rapids does the Royal Gorge have?

Accepted Answer

The Royal Gorge section of the Arkansas River features Class III-V rapids - some of the most intense commercially rafted whitewater in Colorado. The gorge itself drops 1,053 feet deep. The Bighorn Sheep Canyon section offers Class II-III rapids for a more family-friendly experience.

Question 3

What age and weight restrictions apply for rafting?

Accepted Answer

For the Royal Gorge trip, participants must be at least 13 years old (16+ during high water). For the Bighorn Sheep Canyon trip, the minimum age is 6 years old (8+ during high water). All participants must wear properly fitting life jackets.

Question 4

Do I need experience to go whitewater rafting?

Accepted Answer

No prior experience is necessary. Our professional guides provide a full safety briefing and paddling instruction before every trip. Beginners should start with the Bighorn Sheep Canyon (Class II-III). The Royal Gorge trip (Class III-V) is suitable for those looking for more intense whitewater.

Question 5

What should I bring on a rafting trip?

Accepted Answer

We recommend wearing a swimsuit or quick-dry clothing, secure footwear (sandals with heel straps or sneakers - no flip-flops), sunscreen, and sunglasses with a retention strap. We provide all safety equipment including life jackets, helmets, and wetsuits when needed. Leave valuables in your car or at our secure storage.

Question 6

When is rafting season at Royal Gorge Rafting?

Accepted Answer

Our rafting season runs April 15 through October 15 each year. Peak flows occur May-June during snowmelt. Zipline tours, the Sky Trek aerial park, helicopter flights and riverside lodging run year-round.

Question 7

Where is Royal Gorge Rafting located?

Accepted Answer

We are located at 45045 W US Hwy 50, Canon City, Colorado 81212 - approximately 45 miles west of Pueblo, 50 miles southwest of Colorado Springs, and 115 miles southwest of Denver.

Question 8

What is the cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Standard cancellations need 10 days' notice; the fee is $15.00 per person and the rest of the deposit is refunded. Inside 10 days it's not refundable unless you added Trip Assurance, which refunds 100% less its 10% fee if you cancel by 1pm Mountain time the day before. Groups of 12+ need 30 days' notice. No-shows aren't refundable. A one-time date change within the same year is $10.00 per person, subject to availability. If we cancel due to unsafe water conditions or weather, you will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.

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Your Adventure,
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Your Adventure,
In Your Pocket

App Features

Book Trips On the Go

Trip Reminders

River Conditions

Photo Gallery

Loyalty Rewards

Account Management

Download Now. Adventure Awaits.

Your Adventure,In Your Pocket

App Features

Book Trips On the Go

Trip Reminders

River Conditions

Photo Gallery

Loyalty Rewards

Account Management

Download Now. Adventure Awaits.

Your Adventure,In Your Pocket

App Features

Book Trips On the Go

Trip Reminders

River Conditions

Photo Gallery

Loyalty Rewards

Account Management

Download Now. Adventure Awaits.

Your Adventure,
In Your Pocket

Your Adventure,
In Your Pocket