Royal Gorge Rafting Trips

The Royal Gorge. It’s amazing enough just to look upon its vast scenic beauty. But, to climb into an inflatable raft with nothing more than a paddle, a PFD, a guide, and a sense of adventure. You’ll redefine your entire visit to the Royal Gorge of Colorado.

The Royal Gorge of the Arkansas River in Colorado rated at class IV-V is considered an advanced whitewater run. During the spring run-off when the water is big the Royal Gorge is recommended for experienced rafters only and you can expect huge boat crushing waves! Then during the summer months when the water drops and becomes a little warmer from the hot southern Colorado sun, the Gorge becomes more user friendly for first time rafters and yet still offers up some super fun and challenging whitewater. The Royal Gorge is one of the best whitewater runs in North America and should not be missed when visiting Colorado. The Gorge walls rise a dramatic 1200 feet above the Arkansas River and close in to 26 feet across at its narrowest point. Rafters will pass beneath the single span Royal Gorge Bridge at 1059 feet above the river. Quite the spectacular sight! If you look hard, you might even catch a glimpse of some adventurers braving the 1200 foot deep abyss as they sail over the Arkansas River on the all-new Royal Gorge Zip Line! Not to mention the nostalgia of the historic Royal Gorge Route Railroad which parallels the Arkansas River.

The half day Royal Gorge rafting trip is a 10-mile trip that takes approximately two and a half hours to complete. The half day is advanced whitewater only. The Royal Gorge rafting full day trip is a twenty-one mile trip with a lunch break at the 10 mile half way point. The full day is class III whitewater in the morning followed by the more challenging class IV and V rapids of the Royal Gorge in the afternoon.  The full day trip is a great option for first time rafters in descent physical shape who are wanting to do the Gorge. The class III in the morning is an excellent warm-up!. All participants should be in good physical condition and have the ability to swim prior to participating in any of our Royal Gorge Rafting trips. For more information please see our Guest Responsibilities and Rafting FAQ’s pages.