Cañon City: Bighorn Rafting With Lunch, Wetsuit and Photos

If you’re looking for a fun, accessible introduction to whitewater rafting, the Bighorn trip offered by Raft Masters in Cañon City, Colorado, deserves your attention. This half-day adventure is designed with first-timers and families with younger children in mind, striking a good balance between excitement and comfort.

We’ve taken a close look at what makes this tour a solid choice — and where it might fall short — so you can decide if it fits your travel plans.

Two things we especially appreciate about this experience are its value for money (including plentiful extras like free gear, lunch, and photos) and its friendly, professional guides who make safety and fun their priorities. On the flip side, some might find the wait time before launching a bit long, especially if you’re eager to start.

Still, for those who seek a relaxed, well-organized introduction to Colorado’s legendary rapids, this tour hits the right notes.

Ideal for families, first-time rafters, or anyone wanting a scenic, manageable whitewater adventure close to Colorado Springs and Pueblo, this trip offers a taste of Colorado’s outdoor excitement without the overwhelming intensity of more advanced trips.

This experience made our article of Canon City’s 15 Best City Tours (With Prices & Reviews).

Key Points

• Family-friendly: Suitable for children over 5 years old, with a gentle yet fun introduction to whitewater.
• All-inclusive: Free wetsuits, shoes, splash jackets, and a BBQ lunch add great value.
• Photo memories: Digital downloads of action shots help preserve your trip’s best moments.
• Close to town: Raft Masters is the most conveniently located outfit near Colorado Springs and Pueblo.
• Scenic rapids: Enjoy famous sections of the Arkansas River like Five Points and Spike Buck.
• Flexible options: Usually runs in the morning or afternoon, with easy cancellation policies.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from Your Cañon City Rafting Trip

Easy Check-in & Friendly Staff Support

Your adventure begins at Raft Masters’ office, conveniently located in a red building with a large parking lot. The staff are welcoming, guiding you through the check-in process and helping you get ready. If you’re on an afternoon trip, you’ll enjoy a complimentary BBQ lunch of burgers and hot dogs served between 11:30 am and 12:30 pm, perfect for fueling up before the water. The staff ensures you’re well-prepared, properly fitted with a life jacket, and equipped with all necessary gear — at no extra charge.

Transportation & Safety Briefing

Once suited up, you’ll board a bus for the short trip to the Arkansas River. The guides give a thorough safety talk and paddle instructions, making sure everyone understands what to do when navigating the rapids. This part of the trip is crucial, especially for first-timers, and the guides’ professionalism can help ease any nerves.

The River Experience

The rafting route covers about 9 miles of the Arkansas River, famous for its lively rapids like Five Points, Spike Buck, and Cowgirl Up. The guides are attentive, with each boat typically holding 6-8 guests, depending on water levels — a size that balances lively group dynamics with safety.

We loved the way the guides keep the mood light and engaging, balancing safety instructions with humor and storytelling. You’ll be watching for bighorn sheep along the banks, adding a touch of wildlife watching to your adventure. The rapids are described as splashy but manageable, making this a trip that’s exciting without being overwhelming.

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Scenic Views & Wildlife

Beyond the rapids, the trip offers scenic views of Colorado’s rugged landscape. The Arkansas River flows through striking canyons and lush greenery, making the experience not just about the water but also about the surrounding natural beauty. If you’re lucky, you might spot local wildlife like bighorn sheep or various birds along the riverbanks.

Return & Photo Opportunities

After about 9 miles of fun, you’ll load back onto the bus and return to Raft Masters’ office. Here, you can browse their gift shop, purchase souvenirs, snacks, or view the action-packed photos taken during the trip. A third-party photographer captures images of you navigating the biggest rapid — a great way to remember your adventure.

Post-Rafting & Dining

If you’re on a morning trip, you’ll have the option to enjoy the BBQ lunch afterward. For those on an afternoon schedule, the lunch is served before your trip, giving you time to relax and refuel. The lunch includes a burger or hot dog, chips, a cookie, and a fountain drink — simple but satisfying, and included in the price.

Analyzing the Value

The $146 per person price covers a lot of ground: transportation, gear (wetsuits, river shoes, splash jackets), safety equipment, the guided raft trip, a full buffet lunch (if scheduled before the trip), and digital photos. This all-inclusive approach means you won’t have to scramble for extra costs on the day.

The free gear rental is a major plus, especially in cooler months or if you’re traveling light. The photos are also a thoughtful touch — many travelers cherish the digital images that capture their moments on the biggest rapids.

The trip’s duration is four hours, which balances adventure with time for relaxation and sightseeing. It’s a good length for families or those new to rafting, providing enough excitement without fatigue.

Trip Details & Practical Tips

Group Size & Pacing

Generally, each boat holds 6-8 guests, allowing for manageable groups that keep the experience lively but controlled. The guides are skilled at pacing the trip, ensuring everyone stays safe and engaged.

Timing & Flexibility

Trips usually run in the morning or afternoon, giving you flexibility in planning your day. The cancellation policy is generous — you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ideal if your plans change unexpectedly.

What to Bring

To ensure comfort and safety, pack sunglasses (preferably with retainers), sunscreen, lip balm, a towel, and a dry change of clothes for afterward. These are available for purchase in the gift shop if you forget anything. Remember, alcohol and drugs are not permitted on the trip.

Accessibility & Suitability

The trip is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal. However, it’s not suitable for children under five, so families with very young kids should consider other options. The overall friendly, relaxed atmosphere makes it appealing for first-time rafters and those seeking a safe, scenic adventure.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

One reviewer from July 2025 noted, “It was very well organized and our guide was awesome,” which highlights the professionalism of the staff. Another from July 2024 mentioned, “Fun but the wait to start the rafting was long — this can get better,” suggesting that some travelers might find the pre-launch wait a bit lengthy, especially if they’re eager to get on the water. Still, this does not seem to detract significantly from the overall enjoyment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for families with children over 5 years old, first-time rafters, or travelers seeking a scenic, beginner-friendly adventure close to Colorado Springs. It offers a great introduction to Colorado’s famous whitewater — with enough excitement to satisfy without overwhelming smaller or less experienced paddlers. The included gear, lunch, and photos add excellent value, making this a practical choice for those wanting a hassle-free outdoor experience.

Final Thoughts

Raft Masters’ Bighorn Rafting trip provides a well-organized, fun-filled half-day that balances safety, scenery, and excitement. With the added perks of free gear, a tasty BBQ lunch, and memorable photos, it’s a compelling package for families and newcomers to whitewater sports. While a short wait before launching might test some travelers’ patience, the professionalism of the guides and the beautiful surroundings more than compensate.

If you want a manageable introduction to Colorado’s legendary rapids without breaking the bank, this trip hits the sweet spot. It’s a smart choice for those who value authentic outdoor experiences, good organization, and a bit of wildlife watching along the way.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for children over 5 years old. The trip is designed to be family-friendly, offering a gentle yet fun introduction to whitewater rafting.

What is included in the price?
The $146 fee covers transportation, all necessary safety gear (wetsuits, river shoes, splash jackets), a guided raft trip, a BBQ lunch (if scheduled before the trip), and digital photos of your experience.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled trip for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is the trip wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for guests with mobility needs.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses (preferably with retainers), sunscreen, lip balm, a towel, and a dry change of clothes for after your trip. These are also available for purchase at the gift shop.

How many guests are typically in each boat?
Usually, 6-8 guests per boat, depending on water levels and trip specifics, which allows for a comfortable and engaging experience.

What time does lunch happen?
If you’re on an afternoon trip, lunch is served before the trip, between 11:30 am and 12:30 pm. For morning trips, lunch is after the rafting.

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

What makes this experience stand out?
The combination of friendly guides, scenic rapids, wildlife sightings, and included extras like free gear, lunch, and photos make this a highly practical and enjoyable option for first-time rafters and families alike.

This adventure isn’t just about getting wet — it’s about soaking in the views, making memories, and discovering a bit of Colorado’s outdoor spirit. Whether you’re after a fun family outing or a gentle introduction to river adventures, Raft Masters offers a well-balanced, value-packed experience that’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby