Cañon City: Family Float Rafting With Lunch, Photo & Wetsuit

If you’re looking for a way to introduce the kids to the joy of river adventures without the thrill of white-knuckle rapids, this family-friendly rafting trip in Cañon City could be just what you need. With a focus on safety, scenic beauty, and fun, the Raft Masters’ float is designed to be accessible for ages 1 and up, making it a popular choice for families eager to enjoy Colorado’s stunning Arkansas River together.

What we love about this experience is how it balances relaxation with a touch of adventure, the expert guidance that ensures safety and enjoyment, and the chance to capture memories with included photos. Plus, the delicious BBQ lunch at Eddy Out Café adds a satisfying end to a day on the water. That said, if you’re craving more intense rapids or high-adrenaline action, this may feel a bit tame — but for most families, the gentle float is just right.

This tour is perfect for families with young children, anyone looking for a relaxing outdoor activity, or those new to rafting who want a safe, guided introduction to Colorado’s rivers. Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for non-swimmers or very young children under 2 years, but beyond that, most adventurers will find something to love.

This experience made our article of Our 13 Favorite Canon City City Tours.

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Key Points

Family-Friendly Adventure: Suitable for ages 1 and up, offering a safe and scenic float experience.
Expert Guides: Guides like Leyland and Mattie are highly praised for their safety skills and personable approach.
Beautiful Wildlife & Views: Expect to see cranes, geese, and even wading cows along the riverbanks.
All-Inclusive Package: Wetsuits, life jackets, photos, and BBQ lunch are included, adding value to the experience.
Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with no penalty, and book now, pay later, making planning easier.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on This Family Float Trip

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The Booking & Arrival Process

Your adventure begins at the Raft Masters office in Cañon City, marked by a bright red building and a large parking lot. The staff are friendly and clear about what to bring — think sunglasses, sunscreen, and a change of clothes for after the trip. Once you check-in, you’ll be fitted with wetsuits, river shoes, splash jackets, and a life jacket. The guides ensure everyone is comfortable and ready to go, setting a reassuring tone for the day.

Transportation & Safety Briefing

From the office, a short bus ride (roughly five minutes) whisks you up to the starting point on the Arkansas River. Here, guides give a thorough safety talk and paddle instructions that are straightforward enough for first-timers, especially children. One guide, Leyland, earns special mention for his personable approach and ability to make kids feel at ease, emphasizing that safety comes first without sacrificing fun.

The River Experience

The 6-mile float is about 1.5 hours of gentle drifting down the Arkansas River, with plenty of opportunities to soak in Colorado’s natural beauty. You’ll likely see cranes soaring overhead or geese waddling along the banks — a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts. According to reviews, the guides craft a storytelling adventure, turning the float into a fun, engaging experience for everyone.

While some might wish for a bit more “white water” action, most reviewers appreciated the relaxing pace. One noted that the guide, Mattie, was fantastic with kids, making the trip feel both safe and enjoyable. Another guest, Leti, appreciated the fun interactivity and felt that the trip was appropriately suited to their abilities.

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The Highlights Along the Way

Wildlife Viewing: Cows wading near the river or cranes flying overhead add a charming rural touch.
Swimming Opportunities: A shallow pool provides a chance for a quick splash or cool-down, as some guests experienced.
Educational & Entertaining Guides: Guides like Leyland and Mattie are praised for their personable, safety-conscious, and engaging manner.

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Post-Rafting & Lunch

Once back at the office, you can browse souvenirs, view your photos, and relive the moments captured during your float. If you booked a morning trip, a BBQ lunch of hotdogs or hamburgers, chips, a cookie, and a fountain drink is provided at Eddy Out Café. This relaxed meal is a hit, giving everyone a chance to share impressions and take in the scenic surroundings.

Costs & Value

Pricing is set at $109 per person, which might seem modest given the all-in nature — transportation, gear, photos, and lunch are included. For families or individuals seeking a relaxed, scenic introduction to Colorado’s rivers, this offers excellent value. The inclusion of photos allows you to relive the experience without the hassle of taking your own shots while floating.

Why This Tour Works Well

Expert Guidance & Safety

Guides like Leyland and Mattie are clearly experienced, making guests feel secure and cared for. Their personable style, combined with safety instructions, helps even nervous first-timers relax and enjoy the ride.

Beautiful & Wildlife-Rich Scenery

Most reviews mention the stunning views and wildlife sightings, which elevate the experience beyond just floating down a river. The opportunity to see cranes, geese, and wading cows makes the trip feel more connected to nature.

Family-Focused & Inclusive

The float’s design for children and non-swimmers makes it accessible for most families. The tour’s duration and gentle pace are perfect for those looking to enjoy the outdoors without intense physical effort or adrenaline rushes.

All-Inclusive & Convenient

From wetsuits to photos and lunch, everything is taken care of. This means less planning stress for you and more time to focus on enjoying the day.

Potential Drawbacks

While most reviews praise the trip’s relaxing nature, some might find it a little tame if they’re seeking white-water thrills. Also, younger children under 2 years are not eligible, and non-swimmers should be aware of safety limitations. The experience is designed for maximum safety and comfort, which might mean missing out on high-energy rapids some adventurers hope for.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This rafting experience is ideal for families with young kids, first-time river explorers, or anyone wanting a peaceful way to enjoy Colorado’s scenic beauty. It’s a perfect choice for those who prefer a structured, guided trip that emphasizes safety, wildlife viewing, and memorable photos. If your group includes non-swimmers or very young children, this is a safe, fun, and inclusive option.

However, if you’re craving rapid, adrenaline-pumping rapids, you might want to look for a different, more intense adventure. Also, travelers seeking a quick, half-day activity will find this pace suitable, especially with the included lunch and photo package for added value.

Final Thoughts

This family float on Colorado’s Arkansas River offers a blend of scenic serenity, expert guidance, and family-friendly fun. It’s a relaxed, safe, and well-organized experience that lets you enjoy Colorado’s natural beauty and wildlife while creating lasting memories. The thoughtful inclusions — wetsuits, photos, lunch — make it a great value for money, especially for those new to rafting or traveling with children.

For families wanting an easy but authentic Colorado adventure, this trip hits the mark. It’s equally suited for those looking to connect with nature without the stress of navigating rapids on their own. Most reviewers come away feeling refreshed, entertained, and eager to return.

FAQ

Is this trip suitable for young children?
Yes, it’s recommended for ages 1 and up, making it a good option for families with small kids. However, children under 2 years are not allowed.

Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
No, non-swimmers are welcome since the float is gentle and guided. Life jackets and safety instructions ensure everyone feels secure.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a change of clothes for after the trip. All necessary gear like wetsuits and river shoes are provided.

How long is the rafting trip?
The float covers about 6 miles and lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with the entire experience including transportation and preparation taking around 3 hours.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking now and paying later offers added flexibility.

Are photos included?
Yes, you can download up to 20 photos taken during the trip, which is a great way to preserve your memories without extra effort.

This family float trip in Cañon City offers a gentle, scenic, and stress-free introduction to Colorado’s rivers. Whether you’re celebrating a family vacation or just want a relaxing day outdoors, it’s a dependable choice that balances fun, safety, and stunning views.