Cañon City: Royal Gorge Rafting with Wetsuit, Lunch & Photos

Rafting through the Royal Gorge offers a wild ride on the Arkansas River, where steep cliffs and powerful rapids promise an adrenaline-filled adventure. This tour, provided by Raft Masters, is designed for those seeking an exciting day out in Colorado’s stunning landscape, with all the essentials taken care of—from wetsuits to a complimentary BBQ lunch and photos of your trip.

What sets this experience apart is its inclusive approach: no need to worry about gear or additional costs, and you get a chance to relive your adventure through downloadable photos. One standout feature is the proximity to Colorado Springs, making it a convenient choice for visitors based in the city. However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention discrepancies regarding lunch and photos, so clarity on what’s included may vary.

This tour is best suited for active families, groups of friends, or adventure seekers who want a safe, guided whitewater experience with plenty of excitement. It’s not ideal for pregnant women, children under 12, or those with low fitness levels, but if you’re looking for a fun, well-organized river trip, this could be perfect.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with wetsuits, gear, lunch, and photos—no hidden costs.
• Close proximity to Colorado Springs makes it a convenient day trip option.
• Guided by friendly, professional staff knowledgeable about the river and safety.
• Action-packed rapids like Sunshine Falls and Sledge Hammer promise an adrenaline rush.
• Short duration (about 4 hours) with detailed safety and paddle instruction.
• Mixed reviews highlight that some guests felt certain promised amenities like lunch and photos were missing or inconsistent.

An In-Depth Look at the Royal Gorge Whitewater Experience

We often want adventures that balance thrill and comfort, and this rafting trip hits that sweet spot. With a duration around 4 hours, it’s long enough to feel adventurous but not so long that you’re exhausted. The tour begins at the Raft Masters office, conveniently located at 2315 E Main St in Cañon City. The check-in process is straightforward, with friendly staff guiding you through gear fitting and safety procedures.

The Starting Point and Safety Briefing

Once you arrive, you’ll begin by meeting your guides—experienced professionals who emphasize safety while keeping the atmosphere relaxed. The safety briefing is comprehensive, covering paddle techniques, what to expect on the river, and how to handle the rapid sections. Expect to receive a professionally fitted life jacket, helmet, wetsuits, river shoes, and splash jackets—all free of charge—so you can focus on the fun without worrying about gear.

Transport to the River and the First Float

After gearing up, you’ll hop onto a vehicle that transports you to the river’s start point, just a short 20-minute drive. The initial float is calm, giving you a chance to get acquainted with your guide and practice paddle strokes. It’s also a great opportunity to soak in the breathtaking views of the canyon walls and start feeling the thrill in a relaxed setting.

The Heart of the Adventure: Whitewater Rapids

Soon, the river narrows dramatically to just 25 feet wide, and the real fun begins. This is where the big rapids—Sunshine Falls, Sledge Hammer, and Boat Eater—come into play, providing continuous Class III to Class V whitewater action and big waves that will have everyone grinning and holding on tight.

Guests often comment on the exhilaration of navigating these rapid sections. The guides do a masterful job of balancing safety with excitement, encouraging even hesitant paddlers to get involved. Several reviews mention the guides’ expertise—one even described the trip as “outstanding,” highlighting the crew’s professionalism and friendly demeanor.

The Gorge: Nature’s Dramatic Showcase

As the rapid section concludes, the canyon walls soar 1,100 feet above, creating a stunning backdrop for your adventure. For some, this is the highlight—the sheer cliffs and the narrow confines of the canyon emphasize the wild power of nature, elevating the entire experience.

Exiting the Gorge and the Return

After the adrenaline rush, the water calms as you exit the canyon and drift back into Cañon City. The return bus ride is short but offers more opportunities to chat with guides or fellow rafters about your favorite rapid moments.

What’s Included? And What’s Not

One of the main draws of this tour is its all-inclusive nature. You get:

• Transportation to and from the river
• Wetsuits, river shoes, splash jackets, and helmet—at no extra charge
• A BBQ lunch of burgers and hot dogs, chips, a cookie, and a fountain drink (served between 11 AM- 12:30 PM)
• Photos taken by a third-party photographer of the biggest rapid, downloadable after the trip
• A thorough safety briefing and paddle instruction

However, reviews reveal some inconsistency—some guests expected photos and lunch but found them missing or not as advertised. It’s worth confirming with the provider before booking if these amenities are essential to your experience.

Extras & Practical Tips

Bring sunglasses (preferably with a retainer), sunscreen, a towel, and dry clothes for after the trip. The tour’s recommended for those aged 12 and over, and not suitable for pregnant women or those with low fitness levels. The group size generally ranges from 6 to 8 guests per boat, depending on water flow, offering a good balance of intimacy and fun.

The Experience: From Booking to the Finish Line

Booking is flexible—reserving your spot and paying later allows you to keep plans open. The tour begins with check-in, where friendly staff guide you through gear fitting and safety instructions. The short drive to the river is smooth, and guides are quick to establish rapport, making even first-timers feel at ease.

The actual rafting is about 2.25 hours, packed with action but with enough breaks to enjoy the scenery and take photos. Guides are clear with instructions, and the group size keeps everyone engaged. Expect to get a splash or two, and possibly get wet even with the wetsuit on.

The Photos and Souvenirs

Photos are a highlight for many guests—capturing your expressions during rapid descents and team moments. You can download up to 20 images, which often include hilarious or awe-inspiring shots. Some reviews mentioned that photos weren’t always available, so don’t rely solely on this—consider bringing your own waterproof camera.

The Lunch and Post-Rafting Experience

If you’re on a morning tour, the BBQ lunch is served after your adventure, which is a fantastic way to unwind and swap stories. The food is simple but satisfying—hot dogs and burgers with chips, a cookie, and a drink. It’s a nice touch that adds value, especially after a physically demanding trip.

Final Thoughts and Who Will Love This Trip

This Royal Gorge rafting experience offers a practical, well-structured adventure that balances safety, excitement, and comfort. The inclusive gear and meals mean you won’t have to worry about hidden costs or bringing a lot of equipment, making it especially appealing for families or first-time rafters.

The guides’ professionalism and the proximity to Colorado Springs enhance its value, making it a perfect day-trip option. Visitors who enjoy active outdoor pursuits and are comfortable on the water will find this trip exhilarating. But, if you’re expecting a flawless experience with guaranteed photos and lunch, be prepared for some variability based on reviews.

Overall, if you’re seeking an accessible yet thrilling river adventure with friendly guides, this trip is worth considering. Just confirm what’s included beforehand, pack your essentials, and brace yourself for a memorable ride down the Arkansas River in the stunning Royal Gorge.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for ages 12 and up, so younger children may not be suited for this particular adventure.

Do I need previous rafting experience?
No, all skill levels are welcome. Guides provide paddle instructions and safety briefings before heading onto the river.

Are wetsuits and gear included?
Yes, wetsuits, river shoes, splash jackets, and helmets are provided free of charge.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunglasses (with retainer), sunscreen, a towel, dry clothes, and a waterproof camera if desired.

Is food included?
Yes, a BBQ lunch of burgers or hot dogs, chips, a cookie, and a drink is included if you’re on the afternoon trip. Confirm if this applies to your booking.

Can I purchase additional photos or souvenirs?
Photos of your trip are downloadable, and souvenirs are available at the office gift shop.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 4 hours total, with about 2.25 hours of rafting time plus transportation and safety briefings.

What is the group size?
Typically 6-8 guests per boat, depending on water levels.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes transport to and from the river from the meeting point.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Royal Gorge rafting trip from Raft Masters offers a fun, safe, and well-rounded adventure, perfect for those looking to add some excitement to their Colorado trip without overcomplicating logistics. Just remember to double-check what’s included and come prepared for a splashy good time!