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

If you’re considering a splashy adventure in Colorado, the Royal Gorge rafting tour offered by Raft Masters might catch your eye. On paper, it promises a fast-paced ride through some of the most dramatic canyon scenery in the U.S., complete with free wetsuits, lunch, and photos. But as with any adventure, it’s worth digging a little deeper before booking to see if it matches your travel style and expectations.

What we like about this tour is how it combines adventure with convenience—everything from gear to lunch is included, making planning easier. Plus, the proximity to Colorado Springs and Pueblo makes it a solid option if you’re already exploring the Colorado Rockies.

However, a potential hitch is that some reviews highlight inconsistencies in what’s included—namely, whether lunch and photos are actually part of the package. So, if you’re after a full-service rafting experience, it’s worth confirming what’s included at booking.

This tour suits energetic families, groups of friends, or anyone craving an exciting outdoor activity with a chance to see Colorado’s iconic scenery. It’s not ideal for pregnant women or very young children, but for those with a moderate fitness level, it delivers a fun and adrenaline-filled day.

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

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Wetsuits, shoes, splash jackets, lunch, and photos are included, simplifying your planning.
• Close to Town: Raft Masters is conveniently located near Colorado Springs and Pueblo, making it accessible.
• Duration: A 4-hour adventure that balances the thrill of rapids with enough downtime to enjoy the scenery.
• Group Size: Typically 6-8 guests per boat, allowing for a manageable, family-friendly atmosphere.
• Mixed Reviews: While most find it fun, some have been disappointed with what was promised versus what was received.
• Age & Fitness Limits: Not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with low fitness levels.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Breakdown of the Royal Gorge Rafting Experience

Starting Off: Easy Check-In and Gear Up

Your journey begins at Raft Masters’ office in Cañon City, a straightforward process that’s designed to make your morning or afternoon smooth. The office’s central location means no long drives, and there’s free parking, so leave your worries about parking fees behind. Upon arrival, friendly staff will guide you through check-in, and you’ll be fitted with a life jacket and helmet—safety first, always.

If you’ve booked the morning trip, plan to arrive early enough to enjoy the complimentary BBQ lunch of burgers and hot dogs served between 11:00 am and 12:30 pm, providing a hearty start before hitting the river. For afternoon adventurers, the lunch is served beforehand, ensuring you’re fueled for the ride.

The Gear and Safety Briefing

Raft Masters provides wetsuits, river shoes, and splash jackets free of charge. These are essential for comfort and safety in the cool Colorado water, especially if you’re sensitive to the chill. Expect a professional fitting to ensure gear stays snug but not uncomfortable. The safety briefing covers paddle techniques and what to do in case of a capsize, which is standard but always appreciated to help newcomers feel more confident.

The Transportation and Preparation

Once geared up, your guide will escort you onto a bus that whisks you down to the starting point at the Arkansas River. The short ride offers a chance to chat with your guide, who will give you a quick overview of what to expect during the trip. This is also when you’ll get your first glimpse of the canyon’s jaw-dropping cliffs.

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The Float and Rapids

After unloading the boats and hearing a safety talk, you’ll hop into your raft, which holds about 6-8 guests. This group size allows for a lively but manageable experience. The trip begins with a gentle float—perfect for paddling practice and getting to know your guide. As you glide through calmer waters, you’ll start to get a sense of the river’s rhythm.

Then, the river narrows dramatically—down to just 25 feet wide—and plunges into the Royal Gorge. Here, the real adventure begins. You’ll navigate through famous rapids like Sunshine Falls, Sledge Hammer, and Boat Eater, each offering a different flavor of whitewater excitement. These rapids are classified as Class III to Class V—meaning big waves, steep drops, and some serious splash zones.

The Highlights of the Rapid Sections

What makes this part of the trip memorable is the combination of scenery and adrenaline. The 1,100-foot cliffs tower dramatically around you, providing an incredible backdrop for the whitewater. Experienced guides will instruct you on proper paddling and safety, but expect some splashes and bumps along the way.

One rider review mentioned feeling “fun and energetic,” which captures the sense of vitality that these rapids bring. A few others mentioned feeling misled about what was included—particularly the absence of lunch and photos—so keep your expectations in check and clarify what’s included when booking.

Exiting the Gorge and Post-Rafting

After conquering the final rapids, the river calms, and you’ll float into the more peaceful waters near Cañon City. The short bus ride back is a good time to reflect on the adventure, or to look over your photos.

Photos and Souvenirs

A third-party photographer captures images of you on the big rapid, and you’ll receive a link afterward to download digital copies. Some reviews have noted only one photo was included in the package, while others felt they had to pay extra for more. So, if having a great souvenir photo matters, clarify your options with the staff beforehand.

The Lunch and Other Perks

For those on the morning trip, the BBQ at the Eddy Out Cafe is a solid perk—hotdogs, burgers, chips, and a cookie mean you’ll be well-fed after your exertions. For afternoon trips, the lunch comes beforehand, so you can fuel up without worry.

The Costs and Value

Pricing is set at around $157 per person, which for a 4-hour adventure, including gear, transportation, lunch, and photos, seems reasonable—especially considering the convenience of the all-inclusive package. But some travelers feel the value drops if what’s promised (like photos or lunch) isn’t delivered, or if group sizes don’t meet expectations.

Customer Feedback: A Mixed Bag

Most reviews are positive, describing the trip as “fun” and “outstanding,” with some calling it a “must-do.” However, there are notable complaints—one traveler said, “We were assured we’d be on the same raft, but that didn’t happen,” and another was disappointed about missing lunch and photos.

This highlights the importance of confirming what’s included and managing expectations, especially since some reviews mention inconsistencies. Still, the majority seem to enjoy the adventure, and the guides’ friendliness and professionalism are often praised.

Who Would Love This Trip?

This rafting tour in the Royal Gorge is best suited for adventurous families, groups of friends, or solo travelers who want a manageable but exhilarating outing. It’s an excellent choice if you enjoy scenery, thrills, and easy logistics. But if you are pregnant, under 12, or have low fitness levels, this isn’t the trip for you. It’s also good to note that some reviews suggest that experience varies depending on water levels and guides, so flexibility and patience are helpful.

Final Thoughts

For those craving a Colorado whitewater adventure with spectacular canyon views, a friendly atmosphere, and all the gear included, this trip offers good value. The combination of adrenaline, scenery, and convenience makes it a great choice for a day trip out of Colorado Springs or Pueblo. Just remember to double-check what’s included when you book and be prepared for some splashes—it’s all part of the fun.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly outing that mixes nature and action without the hassle of planning gear, this tour hits the mark. It’s not perfect, but it’s authentic and packed with the kind of stories you’ll want to tell long after the rapids have faded from memory.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, children under 12 are not recommended. The trip involves Class III to Class V rapids and requires a moderate level of fitness.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation, a life jacket, helmet, wetsuits, river shoes, splash jackets, a BBQ lunch (if booked during the right time), and photos. However, some reviews suggest that what is promised may vary, so confirm specifics at booking.

How long is the rafting trip?
The total experience lasts about 4 hours, including check-in, gearing up, transportation, and the actual rafting.

Are wetsuits provided?
Yes, Raft Masters provides wetsuits, river shoes, and splash jackets free of charge, which helps keep you warm and dry against the cold water.

Can I buy more photos or souvenirs?
Yes, photos are available for download after the trip, and souvenirs can be purchased in the gift shop. Be aware some reviews mention extra costs for additional photos.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour is described as wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check with Raft Masters beforehand to ensure your specific needs can be accommodated.

In short, this Royal Gorge rafting tour offers a lively, scenic, and mostly hassle-free way to enjoy Colorado’s famous canyon and whitewater. With friendly guides, gear included, and the added bonus of a hearty lunch and photos, it’s a solid pick for thrill-seekers and families alike—just keep your expectations aligned with what’s advertised and you’ll have a memorable day on the river.

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