Royal Gorge Rafting: Class III Rapids & Bighorn Canyon
Two canyons, two runs, one river.
Royal Gorge rafting combines a morning run through Bighorn Sheep Canyon with an afternoon paddle through the world-famous Royal Gorge, both on the Arkansas River. You'll navigate Class III rapids in paddle rafts (or request an oar boat in advance), with a professional guide steering the route and a riverside lunch included. Minimum age is 12 during normal water flows, 16 during high water. Swimmers with moderate fitness are the fit.
What’s included
- Professional guide leading both canyon runs.
- riverside lunch.
- all taxes, fees and handling charges.
- paddle raft or oar boat (request in advance).
- life jacket and paddle.
Next departure: 30 Apr 2027
Information
Paddle through Class III rapids on the Arkansas River in Bighorn Sheep Canyon and the Royal Gorge, with a professional guide, lunch and all gear included.
Compare the 3 alternatives
Traveler reviews
The experience
The day splits into two distinct stretches. In the morning, you're on the Arkansas River in Bighorn Sheep Canyon, working Class III rapids: the kind that ask something of you but don't demand expert technique. Paddle rafts are the default, which means you're holding an oar and driving the boat through the current instead of sitting back while someone else rows. If you'd rather watch the canyon walls pass, oar boats and oar-assist rigs can be requested when you book. A lunch break happens mid-day at the riverside, included in the price.
The afternoon moves into the Royal Gorge itself, the section that draws most rafters here. The rapids continue at the same Class III level, but the canyon narrows and the walls rise. The geography is what changes the feel of the water. You're still paddling, still guided, still moving through the same river, but the setting is what makes this run the one people come back for. The whole day runs six hours from start to finish, which is long enough to feel like a real trip but short enough to leave your evening open.
Meet at the store location 30 minutes before departure. Bring water shoes or sandals that strap securely to your feet. Crocs won't work. The operator reserves the right to refuse service to anyone showing signs of intoxication. Swimmers with at least moderate fitness are the baseline. Spinal injuries, pregnancy and poor cardiovascular health are contraindications the operator lists.
Top questions
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.
What are Class III rapids like for someone who's never rafted before?
Class III rapids on the Arkansas River are beginner to intermediate difficulty. They move fast and splash, but they don't require prior experience. A paddle raft puts you in control of an oar, so you're actively part of steering through the current, which is what makes the ride feel real instead of passive.
Can I request an oar boat instead of paddling?
Yes. Paddle rafts are the default, but oar boats and oar-assist rigs can be requested in advance when you book. An oar boat means the guide rows and you sit. Oar-assist splits the work between paddles and oars.
How much time do we spend in the Royal Gorge itself?
The Royal Gorge run fills the afternoon portion of the six-hour day. The morning is Bighorn Sheep Canyon, then lunch, then the gorge. The exact split depends on water flow and how the guide paces the day, but the gorge is the second half.
Is lunch included, and what if I have dietary restrictions?
A riverside lunch is included in the price. Contact the operator in advance if you have dietary needs they should know about before the day starts.
What's the minimum age to raft this trip?
The minimum age is 12 years old during normal water flows and 16 years old during high water. All participants must be able to swim.
Do I need to bring my own water shoes, or can I rent them?
Water shoes or sandals that strap securely to your feet are required, and you'll need to bring your own. Crocs are not permitted because they don't stay on in moving water. Wetsuit rentals are not available through this operator.
Operated by Lost Paddle Rafting. Explorevia does not run this tour: we compare it with similar options, and you book it with our booking partner.
Prices and times updated 29 days ago
Royal Gorge Rafting: Class III Rapids & Bighorn Canyon
6h
from US$ 199 per person
Next, you choose your date and number of travelers and see the final price.