Experience Colorado’s Scenic Bighorn Sheep Canyon with a Family-Friendly Whitewater Adventure

If you’re looking to dip your toes into whitewater rafting without the intimidation of advanced rapids, this tour in Cañon City, Colorado is a fantastic choice. For just over $146 per person, you get a half-day adventure on the Arkansas River — complete with all gear, safety instruction, and a free BBQ lunch. Guides like Ben and Matt make the experience both fun and safe, ensuring even first-timers like our reviewer’s 12-year-old son leave with a smile.

Two things we really appreciate about this trip are the scenic views and the chance to spot local wildlife, especially bighorn sheep along the riverbanks. The wetsuits and splash jackets provided mean you won’t be chilled even if water levels are low or if you’re a bit prone to getting splashed. One potential consideration is that guides work on tips, so if you have a generous spirit, that’s a way to show appreciation for their expertise.

This adventure is perfect for families and beginners seeking a manageable yet exciting taste of whitewater. If you enjoy stunning natural scenery and want a safe, well-organized outing that emphasizes fun and safety, you’ll likely find this tour just right.

Key Points

Beginner-friendly rapids (Class I-III) suitable for all ages and first-timers
Includes all necessary gear — wetsuits, river shoes, splash jackets, helmets, and lifejackets
Free digital photos and a BBQ lunch enhance the value of the trip
Guides are praised for their professionalism and friendliness
Wildlife sightings are common along the scenic stretch of the Arkansas River
Maximum group size of 15 keeps the experience intimate and manageable

While in Canon City, here are other experiences we've covered

An In-Depth Look at the Bighorn Sheep Canyon Rafting Tour

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

We love that this half-day adventure strikes a balance between excitement and accessibility, especially for those new to whitewater. Priced at $146.17 per person, it’s a solid value considering the all-inclusive nature — gear, safety briefing, guide service, photos, and lunch.

The location in Cañon City puts you in a hub of Colorado’s natural beauty, and the Arkansas River corridor offers views that are both dramatic and peaceful. The scenic vistas are often mentioned in reviews, with travelers appreciating the chance to spot wildlife like bighorn sheep — hence the tour’s name.

Detailed Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

The trip begins at the meeting point on East Main Street, where guides like Ben and Matt will gear you up and go over safety instructions. The gear — wetsuits, river shoes, splash jackets, helmets, and lifejackets — ensures comfort and protection, especially important since some sections of the river have class II and III rapids.

As you launch onto the water, you’ll navigate through rapids like Spikebuck, Shark’s Tooth, Double Dip, and Last Chance. These are generally categorized as beginner-friendly, with enough splash and movement to keep it exciting without being overwhelming.

The calmer sections serve as perfect moments to look around and soak in the views of the Rocky Mountains and local wildlife. Many guests report seeing bighorn sheep and various bird species, adding an element of natural discovery to the adventure.

The Rapids and Scenery

The rapids are described as class II-III, meaning they offer enough thrill to make the experience memorable but are usually manageable for first-timers under professional guidance. The shallow, scenic stretches of the river give you opportunities to spot wildlife and appreciate the rugged beauty of Colorado’s landscape.

While you're exploring Canon City, here are other experiences we've looked into

Guides and Safety

Guides like Ben and Matt receive high praise for their knowledge, professionalism, and ability to make everyone feel comfortable. One reviewer mentioned that their guide went extra miles to ensure a young participant had a great time. This attention to detail makes all the difference in ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience.

The Included Lunch and Photos

After the river adventure, you’ll enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch — options like hot dogs or hamburgers, chips, cookies, and drinks. This is a great way to relax and share stories while still enjoying the outdoors. The complimentary digital photos of your group tackling the rapids are a thoughtful included perk, allowing you to relive the fun without any extra cost.

Group Size and Overall Atmosphere

With a maximum of 15 participants, the tour maintains an intimate feel. This smaller size contributes to personalized attention from guides and a more relaxed atmosphere. Reviewers have highlighted that the well-organized, smooth operation of the trip, combined with friendly guides, makes for an enjoyable outing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for families with children, first-time rafters, or anyone wanting a manageable introduction to whitewater in Colorado. It’s also perfect for those who want a scenic adventure combined with the chance to see local wildlife and enjoy a nice outdoor meal. If you’re seeking adventure with safety and comfort in mind, this tour ticks those boxes.

Price and Value

Considering all included gear, the guiding, photos, and lunch, the $146.17 fee provides considerable value, especially given the personalized experience with experienced guides. For travelers seeking an accessible, fun, and scenic introduction to Colorado whitewater, this tour offers a great balance of affordability and quality.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re a family or a first-time rafter, you’ll appreciate the progressive rapids and friendly guides that prioritize safety and fun. The scenery alone is worth the trip, with chances to see Rocky Mountain wildlife in their natural habitat.

Travelers who want a relaxed pace but still crave the thrill of navigating a river will find this adventure rewarding. It’s especially suitable for those who value well-organized trips, inclusive gear, and delicious meals.

However, if you’re looking for intense, challenging rapids or a longer trip, this may not be the right fit. But for a short, scenic, and family-friendly introduction to whitewater, it’s hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the rapids are classified as Class II-III, ideal for those new to whitewater rafting, with guides providing comprehensive safety instructions.

What gear is included?
All necessary gear — wetsuits, river shoes, splash jackets, helmets, and lifejackets — are provided to keep you comfortable and safe.

Can I buy photos of my trip?
Yes, the tour offers free digital photos of your group tackling the rapids, which is a great way to remember the experience.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, including preparation, the river trip, and lunch.

Where does the trip start and end?
The meeting point is at 2315 E Main St, Cañon City, and the trip concludes back at the same location.

What does the lunch include?
A BBQ meal with a hot dog or hamburger, chips, cookie, and fountain drinks is included.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The Sum Up

For those seeking a family-friendly, scenic introduction to whitewater rafting in Colorado, this tour in Bighorn Sheep Canyon offers a great combination of safety, fun, and natural beauty. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making it suitable even for absolute beginners or those traveling with children. The included gear, photos, and lunch add to the overall value, making it a memorable outdoor adventure that fits well into any Colorado itinerary.

Travelers who prioritize well-organized tours with a small group size and an opportunity to spot wildlife will find this experience particularly rewarding. Whether you’re on a family vacation, celebrating a special occasion, or simply want an active day immersed in nature, this rafting trip provides a genuine taste of Colorado’s outdoor spirit.