Cañon City: Bighorn Rafting With Lunch, Wetsuit and Photos

If you’re considering a river adventure near Colorado Springs or Pueblo, the Bighorn Rafting trip with Raft Masters offers a well-rounded, friendly introduction to whitewater rafting. It’s especially popular among first-timers and families with young children, providing a safe yet exciting way to experience Colorado’s striking Arkansas River.

Two aspects we really appreciate are the comprehensive gear and safety support, and the inclusive free lunch and photos. These add real value to what is already quite an accessible experience. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the somewhat long wait to start — a small hiccup for those eager to get into the water. This tour is best suited for families, novice rafters, or anyone wanting a fun, safe, and well-organized introduction to Colorado’s whitewater.

Key Points

• Family-friendly and ideal for beginners, with a focus on safety and fun.
• All gear—wet suits, shoes, splash jackets—are provided for free, ensuring comfort and protection.
• Includes a hearty BBQ lunch and digital photos to remember your trip.
• Proximity to Colorado Springs and Pueblo makes it accessible without long travel.
• Guided experience with friendly staff, ensuring safety from start to finish.
• River route covers about 9 miles of scenic rapids like Five Points, Spike Buck, and Cowgirl Up.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Experience

This rafting outing with Raft Masters in Cañon City is designed to be a straightforward, enjoyable adventure that doesn’t overwhelm newcomers. We loved the way it balances safety and fun, making it perfect for families or first-time rafters who want to try whitewater without feeling pushed too hard.

One of the standout features is the all-inclusive gear, including wetsuits and splash jackets, which means you won’t need to worry about coming prepared. The free lunch (hotdogs and hamburgers) enhances the experience—after all, rafting is a full-body activity, and a good meal makes for a satisfying finish. The photos, taken during the most exciting rapid, offer an easy way to keep a digital memory without extra cost or hassle.

A small drawback may be the wait times before getting on the water, especially if you’re on an afternoon trip when lunch is served before the ride. This might test the patience of eager thrill-seekers, but it’s also a chance to relax at the scenic office or chat with guides. This tour fits best for those seeking an easy, family-oriented adventure with friendly guidance and a relaxed pace.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Once you arrive at Raft Masters’ office, located conveniently in Cañon City, the process is smooth and well-organized. The staff is friendly and eager to help you get ready. After check-in, you’ll be fitted with a life jacket and given clear safety instructions—an important step for first-timers—that build confidence before you hit the river.

Next, you’ll hop onto a bus that transports you to the start point on the Arkansas River. Here, your guide will give a safety talk and paddle instructions—simple, clear, and designed to ensure everyone understands their role. Then, you’ll paddle your way through roughly nine miles of scenic rapids, including notable spots like Five Points, Spike Buck, and Cowgirl Up. These rapids are lively enough to make the trip exciting, yet friendly enough for families with children over 5.

Throughout the ride, you’ll likely spot bighorn sheep and other wildlife, adding an authentic wilderness element to the adventure. The guides are attentive and will support your group’s enjoyment and safety.

The Rapids: Five Points, Spike Buck, and Cowgirl Up

The rapids serve as the trip’s highlights. While the water is splashy and lively, it’s designed to be family-friendly rather than extreme. This makes it ideal for first-timers who want a taste of whitewater without feeling overwhelmed. The guides’ paddling instructions are straightforward, and they keep a close eye on everyone, making sure safety is never compromised.

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The Food and Photos

Back at the office, you’ll find the complimentary BBQ lunch awaiting—hotdogs or hamburgers, chips, a cookie, and a fountain drink. It’s a classic, satisfying meal that’s perfect after exerting energy on the river. The photos taken during the trip are available for free download afterward, capturing those moments tumbling through rapids or smiling after the splash.

Additional Amenities

Raft Masters offers free gear rental—wetsuits, river shoes, splash jackets—so you won’t need to pack special clothing or worry about getting cold. The office also features restrooms and a gift shop, where you can purchase souvenirs or snacks before or after your trip.

The Value of the Experience

At $146 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the included gear, lunch, transportation, and photos. For families or rookie rafters, it’s a hassle-free way to experience Colorado’s stunning scenery and exciting rapids without the need for prior skills or costly equipment.

The guided nature of the trip guarantees safety and instruction, making it accessible for children over 5 and adults alike. While it’s not a wilderness expedition or a high-adrenaline thrill ride, it hits the sweet spot for those wanting a memorable, fun, and safe introduction to Colorado’s whitewater.

Details That Matter

Transportation & Group Size – The trip includes transport to and from the river, with typically 6-8 guests per boat, depending on water levels. This keeps the experience intimate enough for personal guidance but lively enough for a social atmosphere.

Timing & Duration – The total experience lasts about 4 hours, with options in the morning or afternoon, allowing flexibility in your day. The rafting itself covers roughly 9 miles of river.

Booking & Flexibility – The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now & pay later, which is a thoughtful touch for travelers with uncertain schedules.

Accessibility – The tour is wheelchair accessible, broadening the potential for more visitors to enjoy this adventure.

What to Bring – Sunscreen, sunglasses, a towel, and a change of clothes are recommended. All other gear is provided.

Restrictions – Not suitable for children under 5, and no alcohol or drugs permitted on site, ensuring a responsible environment.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Two reviews highlight the overall positive experience: one calling it “very well organized,” with an “awesome guide,” and another noting that while there was a “long wait to start,” the guide Emma was “very good.” These comments underline the importance of friendly guides and smooth logistics.

In The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This rafting experience is ideal for families, beginners, or anyone seeking a relaxed, well-organized adventure in Colorado. The inclusions—gear, lunch, photos—offer good value, and the scenic rapids promise a memorable outing without overwhelming the less experienced. The friendly guides and scenic route turn what might be a simple activity into a genuine adventure.

While it may not satisfy thrill-seekers craving extreme rapids or a wilderness expedition, it’s a perfect introduction for those wanting to enjoy Colorado’s river scenery safely and comfortably. The easy logistics, inclusive amenities, and friendly atmosphere make it a smart choice for a half-day of fun on the water.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly and suitable for children over 5 years old, as long as they’re comfortable with water and splashes.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a towel, and a dry change of clothes. All necessary gear like wetsuits and splash jackets are provided.

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

Are the photos included?
Yes, digital photos are taken during the trip and are available for free download afterward.

What about the food?
A complimentary BBQ lunch of hotdogs or burgers is served after the rafting, between 11:30 am and 12:30 pm for afternoon trips.

Is the tour accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

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

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This rafting trip with Raft Masters offers a safe, fun, and inclusive way to enjoy Colorado’s beautiful Arkansas River. Whether you’re on your first trip or looking for a relaxed family adventure, it’s a solid choice—leaving you with memories, photos, and a good appetite for the next Colorado experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: