Get set for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the high desert. The Bighorn Sheep Canyon full-day rafting experience on the Arkansas River promises thrilling class II and III rapids, stunning landscapes, and a picnic-style lunch amid the tranquility of nature. With a maximum capacity of 250 participants, this highly-rated tour fills up quickly. Discover why travelers rave about this exhilarating 18-mile journey that’s perfect for families and first-time adventurers. What makes this experience so special?
Key Points
- A full-day rafting adventure on the Arkansas River’s Bighorn Sheep Canyon, ideal for families and first-time rafters.
- Navigating class II and III whitewater rapids over an 18-mile stretch, with opportunities to spot wildlife in the scenic high-desert landscape.
- Includes gear, safety briefing, and a picnic-style lunch on the riverbank with swimming opportunities.
- Not suitable for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, and has a minimum age requirement of 6 years old.
- Priced from $132.00 per person, with souvenir photos available for separate purchase and no hidden fees in the inclusive package.
Overview of the Experience
The full-day rafting adventure down the Arkansas River’s Bighorn Sheep Canyon departs from Cañon City, making it an ideal choice for families and first-time rafters.
Rated 5.0 based on 31 reviews, this excursion is recommended by 100% of travelers. Participants will navigate class II and III whitewater rapids over an 18-mile stretch, passing through a scenic high-desert landscape with opportunities to spot bighorn sheep and native wildlife.
With gear, safety briefing, and midway lunch included, this full-day experience offers an unforgettable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Canon City
Rafting Details
Participants navigate class II and III whitewater rapids over an 18-mile stretch of the Arkansas River’s Bighorn Sheep Canyon. Thrilling rapids include Maytag, Five Points, Spike Buck, and Double Dip. The scenic high-desert landscape offers opportunities to spot bighorn sheep and native wildlife along the way.
Rapids | Class | Description |
---|---|---|
Maytag | II | A churning wash of foaming water |
Five Points | III | Five distinct waves to navigate |
Spike Buck | III | An exhilarating drop and splash |
Double Dip | III | Two back-to-back hydraulic features |
Sunset Rapid | III | A challenging late-day rapid |
Itinerary and Activities
Travelers meet at the Lost Paddle Rafting outpost 30 minutes prior to the 9:00 am departure.
Once there, they’ll gear up with a life vest, helmet, and paddle, and receive a comprehensive safety briefing.
After the preparatory session, the group heads out to navigate class II and III whitewater rapids along the 18-mile stretch of the Arkansas River’s Bighorn Sheep Canyon.
Midway through the adventure, they’ll enjoy a picnic-style lunch on the riverbank, with opportunities to swim.
Finally, travelers are transported back to the outpost at the end of the full-day rafting experience.
Important Information
Although the Bighorn Sheep Canyon rafting adventure isn’t suitable for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, most travelers can participate.
The minimum age requirement is 6 years old. The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible. Guests should inform the outfitter about any dietary requirements when booking.
The full-day excursion is non-refundable, and cancellations don’t result in a refund. Travelers can purchase souvenir photos after the adventure.
The trip accommodates a maximum of 250 participants, ensuring an intimate experience along the 18-mile stretch of the Arkansas River’s Bighorn Sheep Canyon.
Pricing and Booking
How much does the Bighorn Sheep Canyon rafting experience cost? The full-day rafting trip is priced from $132.00 per person, including all taxes, fees, handling charges, and a midway picnic-style lunch.
Souvenir photos are available for purchase separately. Booking can accommodate up to 250 travelers per trip.
Some key considerations for pricing and booking include:
- Inclusive package with no hidden fees
- Non-refundable policy with no cancellation options
- Ability to cater to dietary requirements
- Limited trip capacity requiring early reservations
- Opportunity to purchase keepsake photos
What to Expect
The Bighorn Sheep Canyon rafting experience begins with a 30-minute check-in at the Lost Paddle Rafting outpost prior to the 9:00 am departure.
Adventurers will gear up with a life vest, helmet, and paddle, then receive a thorough safety briefing.
The journey navigates class II and III whitewater rapids over an 18-mile stretch, including notable rapids like Maytag, Five Points, Spike Buck, and Double Dip.
Travelers will enjoy a midway picnic-style lunch on the riverbank and have opportunities to swim.
After the rafting, return transportation is provided back to the outpost.
The experience is suitable for most, but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
Preparing for Your Adventure
To make the most of your Bighorn Sheep Canyon rafting adventure, there are a few key steps to prepare.
First, ensure you pack appropriate clothing, including quick-drying synthetic layers, sturdy water shoes, and sun protection. Hydration is crucial, so bring plenty of water and snacks.
Review the safety briefing thoroughly to understand proper paddling techniques and emergency procedures. Plus, be mindful of any medical conditions or dietary needs, and communicate these with the outfitter in advance.
Finally, approach the experience with an open mind and a spirit of adventure – the magnificent scenery and thrilling rapids await!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Life Jacket and Helmet?
Travelers are welcome to bring their own life jacket and helmet, but the outfitter will provide the required safety gear. It’s recommended to use the provided equipment to ensure proper fit and compliance with safety standards.
Is There a Weight Limit for Participants?
There’s no explicit weight limit mentioned, but the experience may not be suitable for those unable to fit comfortably in the rafts. Travelers should check with the outfitter if they have any concerns about their size or weight.
What Happens in Case of Inclement Weather?
In case of inclement weather, the activity may be rescheduled or postponed for safety reasons. Participants will be informed of any changes and offered alternative options, such as a refund or rescheduling for a different date.
Can I Leave Personal Belongings on the Shore?
Travelers can leave personal belongings on the shore during the rafting experience. The outfitter will provide a secure area for storage, so you can enjoy the adventure without worrying about your items.
Are There Any Special Instructions for Group Reservations?
For group reservations, travelers should communicate the group size and any dietary requirements when booking. The outfitter can accommodate up to 250 guests per trip, so larger groups can be booked.
The Sum Up
Embark on an exhilarating rafting journey through Bighorn Sheep Canyon‘s thrilling class II and III rapids. Soak in the stunning high-desert landscape as you navigate Maytag and Sunset Rapid. With gear provided, a safety briefing, and a riverside picnic, this 18-mile adventure is perfect for families and first-time adventurers. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience rated 5.0 by travelers. Early reservations are recommended for this limited-capacity tour.
More Workshops & Classes in Canon City
More Lunch Experiences in Canon City
- Bighorn Sheep Canyon Raft and Zipline – Class III Rapids, 9 Zip Lines, & lunch
- Cañon City: Royal Gorge Rafting with Wetsuit, Lunch & Photos
- Bighorn Sheep Canyon (FREE Lunch, Digital Photo, and Wetsuit Use)
- Cañon City: Family Float Rafting With Lunch, Photo & Wetsuit
- Cañon City: Bighorn Rafting With Lunch, Wetsuit and Photos
- Cañon City: Royal Gorge Rafting FREE Wetsuit, Lunch & Photo
More Tour Reviews in Canon City
- Royal Gorge Rafting Half Day Tour (FREE wetsuit use!) – Class IV Extreme fun!
- Royal Gorge Loop Half Day Jeep Tour
- Royal Gorge Half-Day Rafting Trip
- Family Friendly Rafting near Colorado Springs
- Half Day Bighorn Sheep Canyon Rafting Adventure Cañon City CO
- Bighorn Sheep Canyon Raft and Zipline – Class III Rapids, 9 Zip Lines, & lunch
Still browsing? Here are more Canon City experiences we've covered recently
- Canon City’s 2 Top Photography Experiences
- Royal Gorge Loop Half Day Jeep Tour
- Royal Gorge Half-Day Rafting Trip
- Family Friendly Rafting near Colorado Springs
- Half Day Bighorn Sheep Canyon Rafting Adventure Cañon City CO
- Exciting Whitewater Rafting Trip near Colorado Springs
- 4 Best Lunch Experiences In Canon City
- Cañon City: Royal Gorge Rafting with Wetsuit, Lunch & Photos
- Bighorn Sheep Canyon Half-Day Rafting
- Bighorn Sheep Canyon (FREE Lunch, Digital Photo, and Wetsuit Use)
- Our 13 Favorite Canon City City Tours
- Cañon City: Family Float Rafting With Lunch, Photo & Wetsuit