Bighorn Sheep Canyon Raft and Zipline – Class III Rapids, 9 Zip Lines, & lunch

An Exciting Day in Colorado: Rafting and Ziplining in Cañon City

If you’re looking for a day packed with adventure and spectacular scenery, this combo tour in Cañon City is hard to beat. For around $299 per person, you’ll spend roughly seven hours exploring Bighorn Sheep Canyon’s gentle rapids and soaring above the high desert on nine zip lines. Led by experienced guides, this tour promises a memorable experience whether you’re a thrill-seeker or traveling with family.

What really makes this tour stand out are the helpful guides who keep the mood light and the experience smooth, and the stunning views of the Colorado landscape that are accessible at every turn. We love the fact that it’s designed to be suitable for beginners and families, making it a versatile choice for many travelers.

One thing to consider is the physical aspect—you’ll need a moderate level of fitness, especially for walking between zip lines, which some reviews note can be a bit long. Still, if you’re up for a day of fun with safe, professional guidance, you’re likely to find this tour well worth the investment.

This experience is ideal for families with children aged 6 and up, adventure lovers, or those simply wanting a comprehensive taste of Colorado’s outdoors with a balanced mix of gentle rafting and thrilling zipline flight.

Key Points

• Versatile Adventure: Combines mild whitewater rafting with an exhilarating zipline course.
• Great for Families: Suitable for children 6 and older, with guides ensuring safety.
• Spectacular Views: Offers panoramic vistas of Colorado’s high desert and mountain scenery.
• Professional Guides: Highly praised for knowledgeable, friendly guides that enhance the experience.
• All-Weather Operation: Runs in all weather conditions, so you can plan confidently.
• Value for Money: At $299, it includes transportation, guiding, and a full day of entertainment.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Timing

The day begins early at 8:00 am at 45045 W U.S. 50 in Cañon City. The meeting point is convenient, and all transportation between activities is included, so you can relax rather than worry about logistics. With a roughly seven-hour itinerary, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy each part at a comfortable pace.

The Rafting Adventure in Bighorn Sheep Canyon

The morning kicks off with guided rafting down the Arkansas River. The trip covers a stretch renowned for Class III rapids like Wake Up, 3 Rocks, Spikebuck, and Sharks Tooth. These rapids are described as mild enough for beginners and families, yet exciting enough to get your adrenaline going.

What stands out about this part of the tour is the combination of exciting rapids and peaceful stretches. As one reviewer, Brian_G, said, “My wife had a good time…the guide made the trip down the river more enjoyable.” The guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude seem to elevate the experience, improving the fun and ensuring safety.

The scenery along the river is another highlight. Expect views of rugged canyon walls, with frequent sightings of Bighorn Sheep—a treat for wildlife enthusiasts. The calm sections between rapids offer perfect moments for photos or simply soaking in the landscape.

The Zipline Course above Royal Gorge

After lunch, the adventure continues with a 2-hour guided zipline tour across nine lines, spanning over a mile of cable. The zipline course takes place on the Royal Gorge plateau, offering stunning views of rolling hills and the high desert.

The final line is a duel race, where you zip side-by-side with a friend or family member, adding a bit of friendly competition. Guides are praised for their patience, professionalism, and friendliness, which helps build confidence, especially for first-timers.

The zipline experience provides a thrilling flight over the landscape, with some reviewers noting it’s a highlight of the day. The long walks between some of the lines are mentioned as not for everyone, so if you’re mobility-challenged or dislike extensive walking, it’s worth considering.

Photos and Additional Options

While photos of the day can be purchased afterward, many guests appreciate the chance to relive their adventure—it’s a chance to share that perfect shot with friends and family. No additional costs are involved unless you opt for the pictures.

What We Love About This Tour

Knowledgeable Guides: Both the rafting and zipline guides are described as friendly, patient, and professional, making the experience safe and enjoyable even for newcomers. Their enthusiasm is contagious, keeping the group energized and confident.

Stunning Scenery: The combination of river landscapes and high desert vistas makes this tour visually rich. You’ll get excellent photo opportunities and a true sense of Colorado’s diverse terrains.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With a minimum age of six and gentle rapids, this tour is accessible to a wide range of travelers. Kids and adults alike will appreciate the mix of tranquility and thrill.

Includes Transportation: The tour provides all transport between activities, which simplifies logistics and keeps the day flowing smoothly.

A Few Considerations

While many reviewers rave about the guides and scenery, some mention that the walks between zip lines can be long—not ideal if you have mobility issues or dislike extensive walking. Also, the price of $299 is a bit higher than some single-activity options, but it’s fair considering the all-included nature and the variety of experiences packed into one day.

Weather can impact the day, but the tour operates in all conditions, giving you flexibility. Just dress appropriately and be prepared for changeable mountain weather.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for families seeking a safe yet exciting outdoor experience, outdoor enthusiasts wanting a full day of Colorado-style fun, or first-time visitors looking for a comprehensive introduction to the region’s natural beauty. If you enjoy a mix of gentle action and breathtaking scenery, this is a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

This combo tour offers a well-balanced day of whitewater rafting and ziplining, showcasing Colorado’s stunning landscapes from two exhilarating perspectives. The guides’ professionalism and friendliness earn high praise, making each part of the day accessible and enjoyable. For those willing to spend a full day outdoors, the experience provides excellent value—covering transportation, guiding, and multiple activities in one package.

Whether you’re traveling with kids, seeking adventure as a couple, or simply eager to experience Colorado’s outdoors in a fun, safe way, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a chance to make lasting memories, capture incredible photos, and get a real feel for the wild beauty that makes this part of Colorado so special.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes guided whitewater rafting in Bighorn Sheep Canyon, a guided zipline adventure over the Royal Gorge plateau, and transportation between activities.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 6 and older can participate, provided they are accompanied by an adult. The activities are designed to be family-friendly.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 7 hours, starting at 8:00 am, with plenty of time for each activity and breaks.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for outdoor activities, including comfortable clothing that can get wet for rafting. Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking between zip lines.

Can I purchase photos of my adventure?
Yes, photos taken during the day are available for purchase after the tour.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions. If weather causes cancellation, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How physically demanding is the tour?
A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended. Expect some walking between zip lines and paddling during rafting.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely, reviews highlight guides as friendly, professional, and helpful, which greatly enhances the overall experience.

What is the cost of the tour?
Pricing is $299 per person, which covers all activities, transportation, and guiding—offering good value for a full day of outdoor adventures.

Embark on this Colorado adventure and discover why so many travelers leave with smiles and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a family looking for a day out, this tour delivers a perfect blend of excitement and scenery in the heart of Cañon City.