We run two half-day rafting trips on the Arkansas River, and the question we hear most is which one to book. Both come with professional guides and all the equipment. The difference is the water, and who is in your boat.
Bighorn Sheep Canyon: the family trip
Bighorn Sheep Canyon has Class II-III rapids, great for beginners and families. It is about 3 hours on the water and open to ages 6 and up. Keep an eye on the canyon walls, which is where the bighorn sheep are. Guides provide all the equipment, wetsuits included.
The Royal Gorge: the bucket-list trip
The Royal Gorge is miles of Class III-V rapids through walls rising 1,000 feet on either side, with views of the Royal Gorge Bridge from the river. It is about 3 to 4 hours on the water. Riders must be at least 13, and at least 16 during high water, because of the size of the rapids.
How to choose
- Kids under 13 in the group: Bighorn Sheep Canyon, the trip open to ages 6 and up.
- First time on whitewater: Bighorn Sheep Canyon, rated beginner to intermediate.
- Paddled before and want the big water: the Royal Gorge, rated intermediate to advanced.
- Want to see the bridge from below: the Royal Gorge trip, which has views of the Royal Gorge Bridge from the river.
When to go
Rafting runs from April 15 to October 15. Visiting from October to March? Our zipline tours and helicopter flights run year-round, so plan one of those instead.
Current trips and prices are on the rafting page. Adding a second adventure? Read how our two zipline tours compare, or put a whole day together in the trip builder.
