Cañon City: Bighorn Rafting With Lunch, Wetsuit and Photos

If you’re searching for a whitewater adventure that balances excitement with a laid-back family vibe, the Bighorn Rafting tour with Raft Masters in Cañon City might just be what you’re after. This half-day trip offers a friendly introduction to Colorado’s famous rapids, perfect for first-timers and families with younger children. With free gear, a complimentary BBQ lunch, and professional guides, it packs plenty of value into around four hours of fun.

What stood out most is how smoothly the operation runs — from check-in to returning to land, everything feels well-organized and welcoming. The highlight? The chance to see bighorn sheep along the river and paddle through rapids like Five Points, Spike Buck, and Cowgirl Up, all while being guided by knowledgeable, friendly staff.

One thing to keep in mind is that some guests noted a long wait before starting the actual rafting. While this can be a bit frustrating, it’s a minor hiccup in an otherwise enjoyable experience. This trip is ideal for families, beginner rafters, or anyone wanting a fun, safety-conscious adventure with plenty of comforts and extras.

Key Points

• Family-Friendly: Suitable for children over 5 years old, with a relaxed, non-intimidating raft experience.
• All-Inclusive Gear & Food: No hidden costs for wetsuits, shoes, splash jackets, and a complimentary BBQ lunch.
• Photographs Included: Up to 20 photos of your trip, capturing the moments on the biggest rapid.
• Close to Colorado Springs: Conveniently located, making it easy for a day trip.
• Guided by Experts: Friendly guides like Emma, who received praise for their professionalism.
• Well-Organized: Clear itinerary, safety instructions, and transport make it smooth from start to finish.

An In-Depth Look at the Cañon City Rafting Experience

The Location and Ease of Access

Raft Masters’ office is situated at 2315 E Main St in Cañon City, a straightforward spot with ample parking. Its proximity to Colorado Springs and Pueblo makes it a convenient choice for a quick escape into nature. The check-in process is simple — friendly staff guide you through what to expect, helping set the tone for a relaxed adventure. Whether you’re arriving for a morning or afternoon trip, the base offers restroom facilities and a gift shop, adding to the convenience.

The Start of Your Day

Once checked in, you’ll be fitted with proper safety gear, including life jackets, helmets, wetsuits, river shoes, and splash jackets — all provided free of charge. The professional fitting process ensures comfort and safety, giving peace of mind before launching into the rapids. If you’ve booked a morning trip, breakfast and coffee are available beforehand, and lunch is served between 11 am and 12:30 pm for afternoon groups.

The Transportation and Safety Briefing

After gearing up, a friendly guide will escort you onto a bus that whisks you about 25 minutes downstream to the starting point. This scenic ride allows you to soak in the Colorado landscape, possibly catching glimpses of bighorn sheep along the riverbanks. Once at the launch site, guides unload the boats and give a comprehensive safety talk, including paddle instructions. This step is crucial for first-timers, ensuring everyone understands how to navigate the rapids and stay safe.

The Rafting Itself – What to Expect

The main event lasts roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes, during which you’ll paddle about 9 miles of the Arkansas River. The course features well-known rapids like Five Points, Spike Buck, and Cowgirl Up, delivering splashy, exciting moments without overwhelming beginners. Guides like Emma, praised for their professionalism and friendliness, will ensure everyone feels comfortable and confident, even if it’s your first time on whitewater.

Guests consistently mention the spectacular scenery, with opportunities to spot wildlife like bighorn sheep. The rapids are lively but manageable, making this trip perfect for families or those new to rafting. The guides will also share interesting tidbits about the local environment, enhancing the experience beyond just splashes and paddling.

The Return and Post-Rafting Fun

After about nine miles, you’ll load back onto the bus, heading to the office. Here, visitors can browse souvenirs, purchase additional photos, or just relax after the adventure. The photos, taken by a third-party company, are a highlight — up to 20 images capturing your best rapid moments are yours to download via a provided link.

Lunch and Additional Perks

For those on the morning trip, a complimentary BBQ lunch of burgers and hot dogs awaits at the Eddy Out Cafe, served between 11 am and 12:30 pm. This hearty meal provides a perfect way to refuel after the adrenaline rush. The afternoon trips also include lunch, just before or after the rafting, depending on timing.

The free gear rental — wetsuits, river shoes, splash jackets — ensures you stay comfortable and dry, especially on cooler days. It’s a thoughtful touch that adds value and peace of mind.

Worth Noting from Reviews

One reviewer pointed out a long wait before starting the trip, which could be improved, but emphasized that guides like Emma “were very good,” keeping everyone engaged and safe. This suggests that while wait times might vary, the quality of guiding makes the experience worthwhile. The seamless organization and professional staff help offset this minor inconvenience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families with children over 5, beginner rafters, and anyone seeking a fun, safe introduction to Colorado’s wild rivers. Its proximity to major cities makes it accessible for a day trip, and the inclusive pricing — covering gear, photos, and lunch — offers excellent value. If you’re after a lighthearted adventure with plenty of scenic highlights and friendly guides, this trip ticks all boxes.

Practical Information for Future Rafters

• Duration: Approximately 4 hours, including transportation, safety briefing, rafting, and return.
• Price: $146 per person — competitive for the comprehensive offering of gear, lunch, and photos.
• Group Size: Typically 6-8 guests per boat, allowing for a comfortable, intimate experience.
• Availability: Check ahead for specific start times; booking in advance is recommended.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for more travelers.
• What to Bring: Sunglasses, sunscreen, towel, change of clothes, and any personal items you’d like to keep dry.
• Not Allowed: Alcohol or drugs — safety is a priority.
• Cancellation Policy: Full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts

This rafting trip in Cañon City offers a balanced mix of adventure and comfort that appeals to families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a memorable day on Colorado’s rivers. The inclusion of free wetsuits, photos, and a hearty lunch makes it exceptional value, while the guides’ professionalism and the scenic surroundings add to its charm.

It’s a straightforward, well-organized outing that emphasizes safety, fun, and a touch of wildlife viewing, all within a manageable four-hour window. The only potential drawback — a possible long wait before launch — is outweighed by the overall quality and friendliness of the experience. If you’re looking for a half-day adventure that’s accessible, enjoyable, and packed with photo-worthy moments, this trip deserves serious consideration.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children over 5 years old can participate. The trip is designed to be family-friendly and safe for younger paddlers.

What’s included in the price? The cost covers transportation, safety gear (wetsuits, shoes, splash jackets), a BBQ lunch, and up to 20 photos of your trip.

Are the guides experienced? Yes, guides like Emma receive praise for their professionalism and friendliness, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.

How long does the rafting last? The rafting itself lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes, covering roughly 9 miles along the Arkansas River.

What rapids will we encounter? Expect splashy but manageable rapids like Five Points, Spike Buck, and Cowgirl Up.

Is there a rest period or break during the trip? The main rafting time is continuous, but guides will pause briefly to provide instructions and safety tips.

Can I rent gear on-site? Absolutely — wetsuits, river shoes, and splash jackets are provided free of charge.

What should I bring? Sunglasses, sunscreen, a towel, a change of clothes, and personal items to keep dry.

What’s the cancellation policy? Full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

How do I book? Check availability online and reserve your spot; you can pay later to keep your plans flexible.

This Cañon City rafting tour offers a fantastic way to experience Colorado’s natural beauty and thrill-seeking side without the intimidation. Be sure to come prepared, and you’ll leave with stories and photos to cherish.