Colorado Springs: Family Rafting Bighorn Sheep Canyon & Pickup

Summary

Rafting Arkansas River with family-friendly rapids and wild canyon views

You’ll suit up with all gear included and head out from Colorado Springs for a day trip rafting Bighorn Sheep Canyon on the Arkansas River—with local guides leading you through family-friendly rapids and wild canyon scenery. Expect laughter, splashes, possible wildlife sightings, and moments of quiet awe you might not see coming.

What’s the experience like?

Someone hands me a helmet that still smells faintly of river water and sunscreen, and I’m suddenly aware I haven’t done anything like this since I was a kid. Our guide—Sam, who’s got that sunburned Colorado grin—checks everyone’s life vests twice. My youngest tries to wiggle out of his splash jacket but Sam just laughs and distracts him by pointing out the Sangre de Cristo peaks in the distance. It’s weird how quickly you start trusting someone you just met when they’re steering your raft.

The van ride out to Bighorn Sheep Canyon is about half an hour, windows down, everyone a little quiet except for one guy in the back who keeps asking if we’ll see actual bighorn sheep (we didn’t, but maybe next time). The Arkansas River looks calmer from the bank than it feels once you’re in it—first splash hits cold and sharp on your cheeks. Rapids are Class II-III, which means enough bounce to make my heart jump but not so much that my mom gets nervous. There’s this moment where we float between rock walls streaked with orange and purple—Sam points out some scraggly pine clinging to the cliffs—and for a second nobody talks at all. Just water sounds and that clean mountain air. I didn’t expect to care about the geology but now I’m squinting at every layer like it’s a secret code.

After about two hours on the river (maybe more? I lost track), we finally haul ourselves up onto the bank, legs wobbly from bracing against the raft floor. Back at base, there’s hot sun on my arms as I peel off my wetsuit—my hair smells like river mud and plastic. Someone cracks a joke about our “action photos” looking more like a group panic attack than adventure shots. Still, I keep thinking about that silent stretch between rapids, how small we felt under those cliffs. Kind of wish I could bottle that feeling for later.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Family friendly rafting adventure

• Meet at office and check in
• Get outfitted and safety orientation
• Drive 25-30 minutes to river put in
• Raft 2-2.5 hours on Arkansas River
• Spot Bighorn Sheep and enjoy scenery
• Shuttle 10 minutes back to office
• Change clothes and view action photos

Top questions

Is this rafting trip near Colorado Springs suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s designed for families and first-timers with Class II-III rapids.

How long do we spend on the water during this tour?

You’ll be rafting for 2 to 2.5 hours on the Arkansas River.

Are guides included during the rafting experience?

Yes, professional local guides lead every raft throughout the trip.

Is hotel pickup or transportation provided?

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points.

What should I wear for rafting in Bighorn Sheep Canyon?

Avoid cotton; wear synthetic swimwear or workout clothes with secure sandals or sneakers.

Are wetsuits and safety equipment provided?

Yes, helmet, life vest, splash jacket, and wetsuit (if needed) are all included.

Can infants or small children join this rafting tour?

Infants can ride in a pram or stroller; check suitability based on age/size before booking.

Will we see bighorn sheep during this trip?

You might spot them in Bighorn Sheep Canyon but sightings aren’t guaranteed.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from set meeting points near Colorado Springs, all safety gear like helmet and wetsuit if needed, guidance from experienced local river guides throughout Bighorn Sheep Canyon on the Arkansas River, plus transport back to base where you can change clothes and check out your action photos before heading home.