Canon City is a place that practically screams outdoor adventure. Located along the Arkansas River and surrounded by towering canyon walls, it’s a natural playground for those seeking thrill and stunning scenery. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie craving whitewater rapids or a history lover interested in scenic train rides, Canon City offers experiences that are as authentic as they are exciting. I especially like the Royal Gorge Half Day Rafting because it combines heart-pumping rapids with jaw-dropping views of canyon walls over 1,200 feet tall—something truly unique to this area. And if you’re after a more relaxed but equally scenic outing, the Colorado: All Aboard the Royal Gorge Route Railroad provides a leisurely way to appreciate the landscape from a vintage train.
If you’re planning to visit, you’ll find that the variety of tours here is impressive. From half-day whitewater adventures suitable for beginners to full-day rafting for seasoned paddlers, plus jeep tours over historic sites and zipline experiences high above the desert, there’s something for all. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at the 16 best tours in Canon City, helping you pick the perfect adventure.
1. Royal Gorge Half Day Rafting in Cañon City (Free Wetsuit Use)
For around $162.49, this challenging whitewater rafting tour takes you down the Arkansas River’s Class III to IV rapids in the Royal Gorge. The trip lasts about 3 hours and includes all equipment, with an option for morning or afternoon departure. What sets this tour apart is the focus on whitewater thrill, with guides helping you navigate turbulent rapids while enjoying breathtaking views of the 1,000-foot canyon walls. The inclusion of free wetsuit use ensures you stay warm and comfortable, even in the cooler months. Reviewers rave about the knowledgeable guides, with one calling Ramsey “a great guide” who made it a bucket-list adventure. This tour is perfect for those who want a serious adrenaline rush but appreciate professional safety and equipment.
Bottom Line: If you want an intense, guided whitewater experience with all gear provided, this tour delivers. It’s best suited for adventurous souls prepared for a physical challenge.
2. Royal Gorge Half-Day Rafting Trip
At only $98, this half-day rafting experience immerses you in the thrill of navigating the world-famous Royal Gorge. During this 3-hour trip, you’ll splash down rapids like Sledgehammer Falls amid stunning canyon scenery just 26 feet wide in some spots. Guides are highly praised for their safety and knowledge, often sharing insights about the gorge’s geology and history. Guests frequently mention memorable moments like jumping off rocks into the river—an activity that adds to the fun factor. The reviews highlight the professionalism of guides like Chip and Steve, ensuring a safe yet exhilarating ride.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a fantastic combination of adventure and spectacular scenery at a very reasonable price, ideal for first-timers or those wanting a quick but intense rafting experience.
3. Bighorn Sheep Canyon Half-Day Rafting
For just $84, this half-day trip is a family-friendly introduction to whitewater. It covers class II and III rapids, with enough splash and excitement to satisfy both beginners and those looking for a quick Colorado adventure. The trip includes stops for swimming in calm pools and spotting native wildlife like Bighorn sheep along the high desert landscape. Zeb and Taylor are commonly praised guides, known for their knowledge and ability to make everyone feel safe. The combination of scenic views, wildlife sightings, and manageable rapids makes it a favorite for first-timers and families alike.
Bottom Line: A great value for a scenic, safe, and fun introduction to rafting, especially suited for families and those new to whitewater.
4. Royal Gorge Rafting Half Day Tour (FREE wetsuit use!) – Class IV Extreme fun!
Priced at $199, this half-day guided tour is designed for thrill-seekers ready to tackle Class III to V rapids. It’s the most extreme option on our list, with rapids like Sunshine Falls and Sledgehammer providing nonstop excitement. The tour includes professional photos for purchase, and the use of free wetsuits helps keep you warm on colder days. Guides are experienced and safety-conscious, making this perfect for those with some rafting experience or strong swimming skills. Guests mention Zulu’s energetic guiding style and the sense of accomplishment after conquering the wildest whitewater in Colorado.
Bottom Line: If you’re after high-intensity rapids and don’t mind the adrenaline rush, this tour is a top pick. Suitable for confident paddlers who want a challenge.
5. Bighorn Sheep Canyon Raft and Zipline
This full-day adventure, costing $299, combines scenic whitewater rafting with a zipline course over the high desert landscape. The rafting portion involves paddling through Class III rapids with opportunities to spot wild Bighorn sheep. Afterward, enjoy nine zip lines on a course that offers sweeping views of the canyon and high desert terrain. It’s a great choice if you want a full day of active outdoor fun. Reviewers love the variety and the combination of water and flight, with some mentioning that the zipline walk between lines can be a bit long but worth it for the views.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a multi-activity adventure—whitewater and ziplining—in one well-organized tour.
6. Royal Gorge Loop Half Day Jeep Tour
At $169, this 3.5-hour Jeep tour offers a different perspective, taking you off-road to see the highest suspension bridge in the U.S. and Fremont Peak. You’ll see dinosaur footprints and historic graves, making it educational as well as scenic. The guides focus on local history and geology, making this tour a hit for those interested in the area’s natural and human history. The Jeep’s open-air design ensures you don’t miss a thing as you cruise over rugged terrain and get close to breathtaking vistas.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers wanting scenic views and local history without the physical exertion of rafting or ziplining.
7. Family Friendly Rafting near Colorado Springs
At $170.50, this family-friendly half-day trip is suitable for ages 8 and up. It offers class II- IV rapids in Bighorn Sheep Canyon, with stops for swimming and wildlife viewing. The trip provides expert guidance and all necessary equipment, making it perfect for families who want fun but not extreme. Reviewers appreciate the relaxed pace and the fact that there are plenty of calmer sections for beginners or for those who want to take it easier.
Bottom Line: A great introduction to whitewater for families looking for a manageable yet exciting adventure.
8. Exciting Whitewater Rafting Trip near Colorado Springs
For $182.23, this advanced trip is tailored for experienced paddlers ready for Class IV-V rapids. It’s a half-day tour that takes you through the most intense parts of the Royal Gorge, with expert guides on hand. Guests mention the waves and technical drops as highlights, with some reviewing guides like Joaquin and Luke as highly skilled and calming. If you want to test your skills on Colorado’s most challenging rapids, this tour is a solid choice.
Bottom Line: Best suited for strong swimmers and paddling enthusiasts wanting a high-adrenaline experience.
9. Half Day Bighorn Sheep Canyon Rafting Adventure
At $98, this half-day trip is ideal for those who want a quick immersion in Colorado’s scenic Bighorn Sheep Canyon. It covers class II-III rapids with opportunities to swim and spot wildlife. The guides, like Ella and Steve, are praised for their confidence and friendliness. It’s a good option for first-timers or those with limited time but still seeking adventure.
Bottom Line: A balanced, scenic, and fun option for a half-day outing that’s perfect for beginners.
10. Red Canyon Loop Half Day Jeep Tour
Priced at $139, this scenic 3-hour Jeep tour explores Red Canyon’s iconic red spires and dinosaur footprints. The guide shares geology and local wildlife stories, making the tour educational and fun. The short walk to Overlook Arch offers panoramic views, and the drive itself covers some of the most impressive landscape in the area. Many reviews mention the knowledgeable guide Coach and the opportunity to see bears, turkeys, and mule deer.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting off-road exploration combined with natural and prehistoric sights.
11. Royal Gorge Half Day Trip
For $127.65, this 4-hour whitewater trip from Buena Vista offers a challenging paddle through the Royal Gorge’s Class IV and V rapids. It’s best for experienced paddlers in good physical condition, with guides providing instruction and safety. The trip includes views of the canyon and the famous suspension bridge, with reviews noting guides like James providing an excellent experience. It’s a more intense option for those who want to push their limits.
Bottom Line: Suitable for adventure-minded paddlers seeking a challenging and scenic day.
12. Royal Gorge Full-Day Rafting Trip
This 6-hour tour at $179 offers a comprehensive experience, starting with the Bighorn Sheep Canyon and continuing into the Royal Gorge’s whitewater rapids. Guests love the personalized attention from guides like Tyler, and the inclusion of a riverside picnic lunch makes it a full-day adventure. It’s ideal for those seeking an intensive day of rafting with ample scenic and adrenaline moments.
Bottom Line: Perfect for avid rafters wanting the full Colorado river experience.
13. Colorado: All Aboard the Royal Gorge Route Railroad!
At $134, this scenic train ride lasts about 2.5 hours and offers a relaxed way to enjoy the landscape. You can add a delicious meal onboard, and visit the Santa Fe Depot boutique afterward. It’s more laid-back than the rafting options but offers stunning views of the gorge from a vintage train perspective. It’s highly rated for comfort and scenery, making it a nice complement after a day of adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who prefer gentle sightseeing with comfort and history.
14. Half-Day Royal Gorge Whitewater Rafting Adventure
For $119, this half-day trip is designed for adventurers with limited time. It tackles Class III to V rapids under expert guidance, with an emphasis on safety and fun. Many reviewers mention the expert guidance of guides like Mark, and that it’s a great value considering the adrenaline and scenery packed into just a few hours.
Bottom Line: Good for busy travelers who want a quick but thrilling whitewater experience.
15. Bighorn Sheep Canyon Full-Day Experience
This 8-hour rafting trip at $179 is designed for those wanting a longer, more immersive experience. It covers class II-III rapids and includes a picnic lunch. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the scenic vistas of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. This trip is great for families or first-timers who want to spend a full day on the water with plenty of stops and wildlife viewing.
Bottom Line: The best pick for travelers seeking a comprehensive, all-day outdoor adventure with a laid-back pace.
16. Full Day Royal Gorge Whitewater Rafting Adventure
At $189, this full-day trip offers Class III to V rapids in the Royal Gorge, including lunch and gear rental options like wetsuits. It’s a longer, more intense journey suited for strong swimmers and paddling enthusiasts. Guests note guides like Luke make the experience both exciting and safe. This is ideal for those who want a full immersion in Colorado’s whitewater without rushing.
Bottom Line: Excellent for adventure travelers ready for a long, adrenaline-fueled day.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
Choosing among all these options depends on your budget, time availability, and interest level. If you’re after high-octane thrills, the Royal Gorge Rafting Half Day Tour (Class IV-V) or the Full Day Rafting are your best bets. For a more relaxed experience that still showcases spectacular scenery, try the Royal Gorge Route Railroad or the Jeep Tours like the Royal Gorge Loop Half Day Jeep Tour. Families and beginners should consider the Bighorn Sheep Canyon Half-Day Rafting or the Family Friendly Rafting.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak summer months, as these popular tours fill up quickly. Think about your fitness level, comfort with water, and how much time you want to spend outdoors. For a well-rounded trip, combine a whitewater adventure with a scenic drive or train ride for a complete Colorado experience.
To sum it up, Canon City offers a range of tours that cater to thrill-seekers and sightseers alike. Whether you want to conquer the rapids or enjoy a leisurely train ride, you’ll find activities that make the most of Colorado’s dramatic landscapes. For the best experience, consider your interests and book early—these adventures have a way of filling up fast. Happy exploring!