Bighorn Sheep Canyon Raft and Zipline – Class III Rapids, 9 Zip Lines, & lunch

Imagine spending a day floating down a scenic river, then soaring above the high desert on a series of zip lines. That’s exactly what this popular tour in Cañon City offers—an exciting pairing of gentle whitewater rafting and a high-flying zipline adventure. It’s a well-rounded day for families, first-timers, or anyone eager to enjoy Colorado’s outdoor beauty without sacrificing comfort or safety.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how smoothly it combines two distinct experiences—each with its own appeal. We love that the rafting is designed to be approachable for beginners and family-friendly, making it accessible without feeling tame. The zipline course, with nine lines and a dual race finale, adds a real adrenaline rush. One thing to keep in mind: the walk between some zipline sections can be long, which might challenge those with limited mobility or stamina.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a full day of outdoor fun, blending water, wind, and mountain views into one package. It’s also a good fit for those who value guided experiences with knowledgeable staff. If you’re after a memorable, active day that offers both relaxation and excitement, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Combines gentle whitewater rafting with a scenic zipline course
• Suitable for beginners, families, and adventure lovers
• Guides are praised for their professionalism and friendliness
• Includes transportation between activities, making logistics simple
• Offers optional photo purchases to remember the experience
• Great value for a full day of outdoor fun in Colorado

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Introducing the Tour

This combo adventure in Cañon City offers roughly seven hours of outdoor excitement—perfect for those who want to maximize their time in Colorado’s stunning scenery. The price is $299 per person, which may seem steep at first glance, but for a full day of guided activities, transportation, and some of the best views around, it’s a fair deal. Plus, the tour is rated a perfect 5.0 out of 5 based on over 200 reviews, showing consistent satisfaction from travelers.

Starting Point and Logistics

Meet at 45045 W U.S. 50 in Cañon City, and from there, the company takes care of transporting you between the different activity sites. They handle the logistics, leaving you to focus on enjoying the day. The group size is limited to a maximum of 8, which keeps the experience intimate and manageable, especially helpful for those who prefer a more personal touch.

The Rafting Experience

In the morning, you’ll hop into a guided raft for a float down Bighorn Sheep Canyon on the Arkansas River. We loved the way guides describe the rapids—names like Wake Up, 3 Rocks, Spikebuck, and Sharks Tooth hint at fun, manageable thrills. According to reviews, the water is cool but not cold, which suggests you’ll stay comfortable even on warmer days. The trip includes both exciting rapids and tranquil stretches, offering a well-balanced experience.

Reviewers highlight the guides’ professionalism and friendliness, which makes the entire ride more enjoyable. One reviewer, Brian G., noted, “My wife having a good time. Our guide made the trip down the river more enjoyable.” This suggests that guides not only keep the pace flowing but also add a personal touch, making the experience memorable.

The Zipline Adventure

Post-lunch, the tour moves to Royal Gorge Zip Line Tours for the highlight: nine zip lines traversing over 100 acres of rolling hillside. The course takes about two hours and includes a dual race line—where two zippers race to the finish. The views from above are vast, giving you a bird’s-eye perspective of Colorado’s high desert and mountain scenery.

Reviews praise the professionalism of the guides and the safety of the activity. Esther S. called the zipline “very exciting and memorable,” emphasizing how the guides contributed to a smooth, enjoyable experience. The long walks between some sections might be a consideration, but most agree that the thrill of flying through the air makes it worth the effort.

Optionally, you can purchase photos of your adventure, a nice way to remember the day without having to worry about capturing every shot yourself.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package includes guided rafting and ziplining, plus transportation between activities. However, transportation to the starting point isn’t included, so plan accordingly. Gratuities are not included either, but they’re customary if you feel the guides and staff go above and beyond. Photos are available for purchase but are not part of the base price.

Weather and Physical Considerations

The tour operates in all weather conditions, but appropriate clothing is recommended. It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, and children over 6 can participate if accompanied by an adult. Weather can influence the experience—poor weather might result in cancellations, but the company offers full refunds or rescheduling options.

Authentic Feedback

Multiple reviews show that guides are a standout feature. Brad S. remarked that “rafting was excellent,” and called the day “a perfect day,” while noting that the walks between zipline sections aren’t suited for everyone. That honesty is helpful for travelers planning their day—know what to expect physically and prepare accordingly.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This adventure is a solid choice for families, first-time outdoor explorers, and anyone eager to combine water and wind in a single day. It’s especially good if you value guided experiences with friendly, professional staff helping you navigate the day. If you’re looking for a relaxed yet active outing that showcases Colorado’s natural beauty, this tour offers excellent value.

For the Adventure-Seeker

The zipline course is a highlight, providing a real adrenaline boost paired with spectacular views. The guides are praised for their expertise, making it feel safe and fun.

For the Family or Beginners

The rafting is described as suitable for beginners, with manageable rapids and calm stretches—perfect for those new to whitewater or traveling with kids.

For Nature Lovers

You’ll love the scenery—breathtaking canyon walls, mountain vistas, and the chance to see Bighorn Sheep in their natural habitat.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded dose of Colorado adventure, blending gentle whitewater and soaring above the desert landscape on a nine-line zip course. With guides who are friendly and knowledgeable, and a carefully curated itinerary, it’s a good pick for those wanting an active day that’s both fun and scenic. Though it’s a bit pricier than some single-activity options, the convenience and diversity make the cost worthwhile.

If you’re after an engaging outdoor experience that balances thrill and chill, in a setting that’s both beautiful and accessible, this combo tour deserves serious consideration. It’s best suited for travelers who want guided safety, memorable views, and a full day of outdoor activity—all wrapped into one package.

FAQ

Is transportation provided for the activities?
Yes, transportation between the rafting and zipline sites is included in the tour package, simplifying your day.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at 45045 W U.S. 50 in Cañon City, and you’ll be transported from there.

Can children participate?
Children over 6 years old can join if accompanied by an adult, making it family-friendly.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for outdoor activities and weather conditions. Expect to get wet during the rafting, so quick-dry clothing and secure footwear are advisable.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 7 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each activity without feeling rushed.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 8 travelers, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Are photos available to purchase?
Yes, you can buy photos of your adventure if you want to keep a visual memory of the day, but they are not included in the initial price.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, but if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This guided adventure in Cañon City is a fine way to enjoy some of Colorado’s most gorgeous scenery while trying your hand at whitewater and ziplining. Whether you’re after a family outing, a thrill, or just a way to see the landscape from new angles, it’s worth considering for your next outdoor adventure.