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.

Meet the Guides

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Meet the Guides

Plan Your Visit