Canon City is a prime spot for travelers who love combining outdoor fun with a good meal. While the city itself offers a charming downtown with cafes and restaurants, the real highlight is how many of the best lunch experiences are tied directly to outdoor adventures. We particularly like the Bighorn Sheep Canyon Raft and Zipline tour because it blends gentle rafting with ziplining over Colorado’s stunning high desert landscape, all wrapped up with a satisfying lunch. Imagine floating past Bighorn Sheep and then flying over rolling hills—what could be better? For those wanting a full day of adventure with plenty of action, this combo tour offers a memorable experience.
If you prefer a shorter, family-friendly outing, the Bighorn Rafting With Lunch, Wetsuit and Photos provides a relaxed but fun half-day on the river with all the perks—free BBQ, photos, and gear. Both tours showcase Canon City’s love for outdoor recreation, paired with hearty meals to keep you energized.
Quick Overview
Our list features three top lunch-friendly outdoor tours in Canon City, each with a distinct vibe:
– A full-day rafting and zipline combo that combines gentle rapids and scenic ziplining (see details here).
– A half-day rafting adventure perfect for families, with free BBQ and photos (more info here).
– An adventure through the Royal Gorge, tackling steeper rapids with an all-inclusive package (details here).
Now, let’s dive into each one to see what makes them a great choice.
1. Bighorn Sheep Canyon Raft and Zipline – Class III Rapids, 9 Zip Lines, & lunch
At number 1, this full-day outdoor adventure begins with a gentle yet scenic rafting trip down the Arkansas River, ideal for beginners, families, or anyone looking for a fun, no-stress introduction to whitewater. The crisp Colorado scenery provides a stunning backdrop as you paddle past notable rapids like Wake Up and Sharks Tooth. The guide-led trip includes tranquil stretches perfect for spotting Bighorn Sheep, making it both relaxing and exciting.
After your rafting, you’ll take to the skies on 9 zip lines over 100 acres of rolling hills, wrapping up with a thrilling dual race line. The zipline course is Colorado’s top-rated, offering views of the Royal Gorge and the high desert landscape. The tour also includes the option to view and purchase photos of your adventures, helping you relive the fun later.
This tour is priced at $299 per person for approximately 7 hours of adventure, making it a good value considering the combined activities and lunch. With rave reviews for professionalism and scenic beauty, this tour suits active families and outdoor lovers wanting a seamless mix of water and air excitement. The experience’s biggest strength is its balanced pacing and memorable scenery.
Bottom Line: A great choice if you want a full day of diverse outdoor fun, perfect for families or first-time adventurers wanting both rafting and ziplining with a hearty lunch.
2. Cañon City: Bighorn Rafting With Lunch, Wetsuit and Photos
Next up is the half-day Bighorn rafting tour, designed for those who want a shorter, friendly experience that still packs in plenty of fun. This tour is especially appealing to first-timers or families with younger kids, offering a relaxed yet exhilarating ride on the Arkansas River. For just $146, you get a delicious BBQ lunch of hotdogs and hamburgers, along with the opportunity to digitally download a photo taken during the trip—an affordable way to capture memories.
The tour includes free wetsuit, shoes, and splash jackets, ensuring comfort even if the water feels brisk. The guide-to-guest ratio is friendly and professional, emphasizing safety and enjoyment. The river is close to Colorado Springs and Pueblo, making it accessible for a day trip.
Reviews highlight the friendly staff and fun atmosphere, with many noting that it’s an ideal introduction to whitewater rafting for families or those with limited time. The tour’s shorter duration makes it a good option for travelers who want to combine outdoor fun with a good meal without spending the whole day away.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-timers or families seeking a laid-back rafting experience with a classic BBQ lunch included at a very reasonable price.
3. Cañon City: Royal Gorge Rafting with Wetsuit, Lunch & Photos
The most adventurous pick is the Royal Gorge rafting tour, which tackles the steep cliffs and powerful rapids of Colorado’s most iconic gorge. For $157, you’ll spend about four hours navigating Class III to Class V rapids — a step up in adrenaline and technical challenge. This tour includes free wetsuits, shoes, and splash jackets to handle the colder water, plus a BBQ lunch and photos, making it a well-rounded package.
What makes this trip stand out is the dramatic scenery of cliffs soaring 1,100 feet above the river, combined with the thrill of steeper rapids. The guide team is experienced and attentive, ensuring safety even during the most challenging sections. Reviews mention the “excellent crew” and the “breathtaking views,” which make it clear that this is an experience for those seeking adventure with stunning scenery.
While geared toward those with some rafting experience or a desire for a more intense ride, beginners need not worry—guides tailor the experience to comfort levels. The tour’s value is evident in its inclusions, making it a great choice for adventure seekers eager to conquer Colorado’s most famous canyon.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you’re looking for an adrenaline-packed day with incredible scenery that’s suitable for beginners with some confidence or experienced rafters.
How to Choose Your Lunch Adventure in Canon City
Picking the right outdoor lunch experience depends on your interests, time, and fitness level. If you want a full day of diverse activities, the Bighorn Sheep Canyon Raft and Zipline offers a memorable mix of gentle rafting and ziplining with a hearty meal. For a shorter, family-friendly outing, the Bighorn Rafting With Lunch provides a relaxed, fun introduction without taking up your whole day. If adventure is your priority, and you’re up for tackling steeper rapids, the Royal Gorge Rafting trip delivers thrilling scenery and challenging rapids with all-inclusive comfort.
When booking, consider the season and water levels—Colorado’s rivers fluctuate, and early booking can ensure you secure your preferred date, especially in peak summer. Whether you choose a laid-back float or an adrenaline rush, these tours provide a great way to enjoy Canon City’s outdoor beauty paired with a satisfying meal.
In summary, Canon City offers a wide range of lunch experiences that combine outdoor excitement with good food. The full-day rafting and ziplining is best for those craving variety; the half-day rafting suits families or first-timers; and the Royal Gorge adventure is perfect for thrill-seekers. Be sure to book early, especially during peak season, and get ready for a day full of fun, scenic views, and tasty food.