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

If you’re craving an adventure that combines adrenaline, stunning scenery, and all the comforts of an organized tour, the Royal Gorge Rafting experience with Raft Masters might be worth your attention. While we haven’t taken this trip ourselves, we’ve gathered plenty of insights to help you decide if this is the right fit for your Colorado trip.

What immediately catches your eye are the inclusive perks—free wetsuits, a hearty BBQ lunch, and complimentary photos—making it a convenient and value-packed outing. Plus, with the river’s famous steep drops and continuous Class III to V rapids, it promises a thrilling ride through one of Colorado’s most iconic natural sights. However, potential visitors should note that the experience is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with a low fitness level, which could influence your decision depending on your group’s composition.

This tour seems best suited for active families, groups of friends, or adventure-seekers looking for a safe yet exhilarating whitewater experience. Read on for the details that will help you understand what to expect and whether this adventure matches your vacation style.

• All-Inclusive Value: The tour covers gear, wetsuits, lunch, and photos, streamlining the experience and adding value.
• Expert Guidance: Guides are friendly and thorough, offering safety talks and paddle instructions, making this accessible even for beginners.
• Iconic Scenery: The 1,100-foot cliffs of the Royal Gorge promise jaw-dropping views alongside the thrill of whitewater.
• Flexible Scheduling: Multiple starting times are available, and the tour duration is around four hours, fitting easily into your day.
• Limited Age and Fitness Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with low fitness levels.
• Review Highlights: Mixed reviews, with some disappointed about missing lunch/photos, but others praising the energetic, fun atmosphere.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Royal Gorge Rafting trip is set against the backdrop of towering 1,100-foot cliffs, offering not just a wild ride but also unforgettable scenery. It’s a classic Colorado experience—combining the rugged beauty of the Gorge with the adrenaline of whitewater rapids. The fact that it’s the closest rafting spot to Colorado Springs and Pueblo makes it a popular choice for visitors staying in those areas, thanks to its convenient location.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

From your initial check-in at the Raft Masters office in Canon City, everything is organized to keep your day smooth and enjoyable. The process begins with friendly staff guiding you through gear fitting and safety instructions, which can be particularly reassuring for first-timers. You’ll then hop onto a short bus ride to the river, where your guide will give a safety briefing and paddle instructions. This prep sets the stage for what’s to come—an afternoon packed with excitement.

Once on the water, the first part of the trip is a gentle float, allowing you to get acquainted with your guide and practice paddling. This is a smart move, especially for newbies, as it builds confidence before tackling the more intense rapids ahead.

The Rapids and Scenic Highlights

As your raft navigates the narrowing gorge, you’ll encounter some notable rapids like Sunshine Falls, Sledge Hammer, and Boat Eater—each promising splashy, adrenaline-pumping moments. The rapid names alone suggest the level of excitement, but guides are experienced and safety-conscious, making sure everyone stays secure.

Beyond the action, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the canyon walls, which have earned their fame for steep drops and dramatic scenery. The narrowness of the river in this section—only 25 feet wide—amplifies the sense of adventure and immersion in nature.

The Aftermath and Included Amenities

Upon exiting the gorge, the water calms, and you’ll be back in Cañon City. The tour concludes with a short bus ride back to Raft Masters, where you can browse souvenirs and download the professionally taken photos of your trip—an excellent way to relive the memories.

Lunch and photos are included, which is a big plus for added convenience. The BBQ lunch of burgers and hot dogs is served between 11 AM and 12:30 PM, though some reviews mention confusion about the availability of these amenities. One traveler was disappointed to find that lunch and photos were not available as promised, so it’s worth confirming the schedule when booking.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour covers most essentials for a hassle-free adventure: transportation, wetsuits, river gear, and a BBQ lunch. The fact that wetsuits, splash jackets, and shoes are provided for free is a significant value, especially since river temperatures can be chilly.

However, tips for guides are not included, and you might want to budget for gratuities or additional merchandise. Also, remember to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a dry change of clothes, and a camera—these items will enhance your experience and comfort.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviews paint a picture of a generally fun, energetic adventure, with some hiccups. One traveler described it as “outstanding,” praising the guides’ friendliness and the energy of the trip, which suggests an engaging atmosphere. On the other hand, a negative review lamented the absence of lunch and photos despite advertising these perks, highlighting the importance of confirming what’s included before your trip.

Guide names aren’t explicitly mentioned, but the professionalism and safety focus seem consistent, which is critical on a rapid like this. The small group size (6-8 guests per boat) ensures personalized attention, crucial when navigating tricky rapids.

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How It Compares to Other Experiences

Compared to other activities in the area like ziplining or the Royal Gorge Bridge, rafting offers a different kind of thrill—more dynamic and physically engaging. The location’s proximity to Colorado Springs and Pueblo makes it accessible without much travel time, which is a bonus.

If you’re seeking an adrenaline rush with an excellent scenic backdrop, this trip strikes a good balance of excitement and natural beauty. Plus, the all-inclusive nature simplifies planning, especially for families or groups new to whitewater rafting.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Book in advance and check availability for your preferred time slot.
• Confirm if lunch and photos are included, as some travelers have found discrepancies.
• Bring sunglasses with retainers, sunscreen, and a waterproof camera or phone case.
• Wear comfortable clothes that can get wet, and plan to change into dry clothes afterward.
• Arrive early to allow time for gear fitting and safety briefing—timeliness ensures you don’t miss the start.

This rafting experience is ideal for those new to whitewater, families with active children over 12, or anyone wanting a safe, guided adventure with memorable scenery. If you’re looking for a high-end luxury activity or are pregnant, this may not be suitable.

It also offers good value for money considering the included gear, lunch, and photos, especially for travelers keen on capturing their adventure.

The Royal Gorge Rafting trip with Raft Masters offers a well-rounded adventure combining thrill, scenery, and convenience. Its location close to major Colorado cities makes it accessible, and the inclusive setup ensures you won’t be bogged down with extra costs or logistics.

While some reviews highlight occasional lapses in promised amenities, most travelers seem to walk away with fun, energetic memories and some great photos to prove it. The experience strikes a nice balance between safety and excitement, making it suitable for a wide range of active visitors looking to tick a major outdoor adventure off their bucket list.

For those wanting a scenic, adrenaline-filled day with all the essentials taken care of, this tour provides good value and a genuine taste of Colorado’s wild side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 12, so check your group’s age restrictions before booking.

Are wetsuits and gear provided?
Yes, rafting gear including wetsuits, river shoes, and splash jackets are free of charge.

How long does the trip last?
The overall experience is about 4 hours, with 2.25 hours spent on the river.

Are lunch and photos guaranteed?
Lunch and photos are advertised as included, but some reviews suggest confirming availability beforehand, as there have been inconsistencies.

What is the difficulty level?
The rapids range from Class III to V, offering exciting challenges suitable for beginners with guided instruction.

Can I book with flexible payment options?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for diverse guests.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a camera, a towel, and dry clothes for after the trip.

Are there any restrictions on alcohol or drugs?
Yes, alcohol and drugs are not permitted during the tour for safety reasons.

This detailed overview aims to help you determine if the Royal Gorge Rafting adventure aligns with your travel style. With its mix of scenic beauty, thrill, and thoughtful inclusions, it could be a highlight of your Colorado stay—just double-check those lunch and photo details before you go.

You can check availability for your dates here: