Cañon City: Bighorn Rafting With Lunch, Wetsuit and Photos

Cañon City: Bighorn Rafting With Lunch, Wetsuit and Photos

If you’re considering a day on the Arkansas River, this half-day rafting trip offered by Raft Masters in Cañon City is worth a look. Perfect for first-timers and families with children, it promises a friendly, fun-filled splash of Colorado’s famous whitewater with some thoughtful extras. From free gear to a complimentary BBQ lunch, this trip packs a good punch for its modest price.

We particularly like that it’s designed to be accessible — you don’t need prior experience, and the staff’s friendly guidance makes all the difference. The inclusion of free wetsuits, shoes, and splash jackets means you can focus on enjoying the ride rather than worrying about being cold or uncomfortable. Plus, the opportunity to download free photos and savor a tasty lunch adds real value.

The only caveat might be the wait time for the trip to start, as some reviews mention a longer-than-expected pause before launching. This is common in busy seasons or popular spots, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re on a tight schedule. This trip suits families, groups of friends, or anyone eager for a safe, lively introduction to Colorado’s river adventures.

Key Points

• Family-Friendly Adventure: Designed for beginners and younger children, making it ideal for families.
• All-Inclusive Gear: Free wetsuits, shoes, and splash jackets ensure comfort without extra cost.
• Convenient Location: Close to Colorado Springs and Pueblo, great if you’re based in these areas.
• Comprehensive Experience: Guides, transportation, safety gear, photos, and lunch included — a hassle-free outing.
• Flexible Timing & Cancelation: Available morning or afternoon, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Affordable for Value: At $146 per person, it offers a well-rounded experience with plenty of extras.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Intro: An Easy Introduction to Colorado Whitewater

If you’re new to whitewater rafting or traveling with young kids, the Cañon City Bighorn Rafting trip could be just what you’re after. It’s marketed as the most popular half-day adventure, and based on the reviews, it truly hits the mark for those seeking a friendly, beginner-level experience on Colorado’s famous Arkansas River.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the family-friendly approach. You don’t need any prior rafting experience, and the guides are known for their warm, welcoming attitude. Second, the value-packed extras — free gear, a BBQ lunch, and digital photos — turn this into a very practical choice for those traveling on a budget but wanting a memorable adventure.

One aspect worth considering is the potential wait time before starting the actual rafting. As one reviewer noted, “Fun but the wait to start the rafting was long — this can get better,” which suggests that patience might be needed during peak times. But overall, the experience is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for most ages.

This tour is best suited for families with children over age 5, first-time rafters, and groups looking for a safe, fun introduction to Colorado’s rivers. If you want a relaxed, straightforward adventure with plenty of added value, this could be a great match.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Splash

Check-in and Preparation
Your journey begins at the Raft Masters office in Cañon City, a conveniently located spot with ample parking. The check-in process is straightforward, and the friendly staff will guide you through the day’s schedule. If you’re on an afternoon trip, you’ll get to enjoy a pre-ride BBQ lunch of hotdogs and hamburgers at the cafe — a nice touch that lets you fuel up before splashing around.

Once checked-in, you’ll be fitted with life jackets and helmets— all professionally sized to keep you safe—and you’ll be provided with free wetsuits, river shoes, and splash jackets. These free items ensure comfort and dryness, especially if you’re sensitive to cold or just want to keep your clothes dry for after the trip.

Transport to the River
Next, a friendly guide will transport you via bus to the put-in point on the Arkansas River. The roughly 9-mile stretch of river offers a good balance of excitement and scenic views, with chances to spot bighorn sheep along the banks—something nature lovers will appreciate.

Safety and Paddle Instruction
Before hitting the water, guides give a safety talk and paddle instructions, making sure everyone understands how to operate their boat and what to expect. This is a key part of the experience, especially for first-timers, and the guides are praised for their professionalism and friendliness.

The Rafting Experience
Once in the boats, the fun begins. The route takes you through some splashy rapids like Five Points, Spike Buck, and Cowgirl Up. These sections are described as splashy but manageable, ideal for those new to whitewater or with kids. As one reviewer noted, “Our guide Emma was very good,” highlighting that entertaining and skilled guides make all the difference.

Throughout the approximately 9 miles of river, you’ll enjoy a mix of gentle scenery and exciting rapid sections, with plenty of chances for photos and memorable moments. The trip is designed to be adventure with a friendly touch, so expect some splashes but no daunting drops.

Return and Relaxation
After completing the river stretch, you’ll load onto the bus for the return trip to Raft Masters. Back at the office, there’s the opportunity to browse souvenirs, purchase snacks, or view the photos taken during the trip.

Post-Rafting
For those on a morning trip, a delicious BBQ lunch at the Eddy Out Cafe awaits you — a perfect way to unwind after the splashy fun. The quality of the food and the casual atmosphere make this a nice ending to the adventure.

What Makes This Trip Stand Out?

Free Gear and Photos
One of the top perks is that Raft Masters provides wetsuits, river shoes, and splash jackets free of charge. This means you can focus on having fun without worrying about the cold or buying special gear. The digital photos, taken during the most intense rapid, are another highlight—an easy, inexpensive way to remember your trip.

Flexible and Convenient
The trip is available in both the morning and afternoon, providing options to fit your schedule. Plus, the close proximity to Colorado Springs and Pueblo makes it a practical choice if you’re based in these cities, saving on travel time and making it a day-trip option.

Family-Focused
The trip is explicitly designed for families and first-timers, which means the rapids are splashy but safe, and the guides are attentive. Reviews confirm this, with one saying, “Our guide was fantastic,” and another noting it as a well-organized experience.

Value for Money
At $146 per person, the package covers everything — transportation, gear, safety instruction, the river trip, lunch, and photos. Compared to other activities in the area, this offers a solid mix of adventure and comfort without breaking the bank.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

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The Transportation and Logistics

Starting at the Raft Masters office, the check-in process is quick and friendly. The location is easy to find, with a large parking lot across the street. During peak seasons, expect some waiting, but the staff’s professionalism helps keep the process smooth.

The transportation to the river is straightforward, with a guide-led bus ride that builds anticipation. The 9-mile stretch of river is scenic, with chances to observe local wildlife such as bighorn sheep, adding a quiet natural element to the adventure.

Safety and Equipment

Safety is clearly a priority. The professional fitting of life jackets and helmets reassures first-timers. The free gear provided ensures you stay dry and warm, which is especially valuable if the weather turns cool or if you’re sensitive to cold water.

The Rapids and Scenery

The rapids like Five Points, Spike Buck, and Cowgirl Up are described as splashy but manageable, perfect for a first-time experience. The guides are experienced and attentive, making sure everyone paddles in sync and stays safe. The scenery along the Arkansas River is typical Colorado, with rugged cliffs, lush greenery, and perhaps some wildlife sightings, which add to the overall experience.

The Guides and Group Size

While specific guide names aren’t always given, reviews praise guides like Emma for their professionalism. The typical group size per boat is 6-8 guests, striking a good balance for socializing without overcrowding. Smaller groups tend to get more personalized attention, which enhances safety and fun.

The Photos and Souvenirs

A third-party company takes action shots during the trip, especially during the most dynamic rapid. These photos are available online afterward, allowing you to relive the adventure and share with friends or family. The opportunity to purchase souvenirs adds a nice touch for those wanting keepsakes.

The Lunch and After-Trip Relaxation

For morning trips, the BBQ lunch after the trip is a highlight, providing hearty, simple fare—hot dogs or burgers, chips, a cookie, and a drink. It’s a good chance to relax, chat about the trip, and plan your next Colorado activity.

Who Will Love This Adventure?

Families with young children over age 5 will find this trip perfect — it’s designed to be safe, fun, and beginner-friendly. First-time rafters will appreciate the relaxed rapids and clear guidance, while budget-conscious travelers will be pleased with the all-inclusive pricing and added perks like photos and gear.

If you’re seeking a light adventure without the risk of difficult rapids, and want to enjoy Colorado’s scenic beauty with some splashy fun, this trip fits the bill. It’s also a great choice if you prefer an experience that combines adventure with casual comfort and good organization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this trip suitable for children?
Yes, but children should be at least 5 years old. It’s designed with families in mind, with manageable rapids and friendly guides.

Do I need prior rafting experience?
Not at all. It’s marketed as a beginner-friendly trip, with guides providing paddle instructions and safety guidance.

What gear is included?
Raft Masters provides wetsuits, river shoes, splash jackets, helmets, and life jackets at no extra charge.

Will I get wet?
Yes, expect splashes, especially during the rapid sections like Cowgirl Up. The provided splash jackets help keep you dry, but some water will inevitably get in.

How long is the trip?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, including check-in, transport, rafting, and return.

What’s the meal like?
Morning trips include a BBQ lunch of burgers and hot dogs, served after the rafting. It’s simple, satisfying fare, perfect for refueling.

Are there photos available?
Yes, a third-party photographer captures action shots, which you can download afterward. You’ll receive a link to view and purchase them.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation to and from the river is part of the package, making logistics easier.

How many people per boat?
Typically, 6-8 guests per boat, depending on water levels and trip specifics.

Final Thoughts

For anyone looking for a family-friendly introduction to Colorado’s rivers, this trip hits many marks. It offers a safe, well-organized, and fun adventure with generous extras that add value without raising the price. The inclusive gear, photos, and lunch make it stress-free, especially for first-timers or those traveling with kids.

While the wait before launching might be a small drawback during busy times, the overall experience seems to leave most guests smiling. The guides are praised for their friendliness and expertise, which is key to creating a memorable outing.

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a light, enjoyable, and straightforward rafting experience close to Colorado Springs, with a focus on safety and family fun. If you’re seeking an easy way to enjoy Colorado’s famous whitewater with all the comforts included, this stands out as a solid choice.

In summary, Raft Masters’ Bighorn Rafting Tour offers excellent value with its inclusive approach, friendly guides, and scenic route. It’s perfect for families, first-time rafters, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet exciting taste of Colorado’s river adventures. Whether you’re after a quick thrill or a memorable day out, this trip provides a well-rounded, enjoyable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby