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Whitewater Rafting with Royal Gorge Rafting
Experience the Arkansas River's legendary whitewater with professional guides who know every rapid, eddy, and scenic viewpoint along the Royal Gorge corridor.
Why the Arkansas River
The Arkansas River through the Royal Gorge region consistently ranks among America's most popular whitewater destinations. The combination of reliable flows, dramatic scenery, and varied rapid difficulty makes it appealing to a wide range of visitors.
What to Expect
Royal Gorge Rafting offers several trip types. Family floats on calmer sections work well for groups with young children or those seeking a relaxed experience. Half-day trips tackle moderate rapids with enough excitement to satisfy most adventure seekers. Full-day expeditions venture into more challenging water, including stretches inside the gorge itself.
The Experience
Guides handle boat navigation while providing safety instruction and river commentary. No prior experience is required—staff match trip difficulty to group ability. All necessary gear is provided, and the riverside location offers convenient access to changing facilities.
Highlights
- Multiple trip options from mellow floats to Class IV rapids
- Professional guides with extensive river knowledge
- All safety equipment and wet suits provided
- Scenic sections through the Royal Gorge canyon
- Convenient riverside meeting point on Highway 50
- Options for first-timers and experienced rafters
Details
- Duration
- Half-day to full-day
- Difficulty
- Moderate - some fitness helpful
- Price Range
- Moderate
- Seasonal Notes
- Peak season runs May through August. Spring offers higher water and bigger rapids; late summer provides warmer conditions and family-friendly flows.
Contact & Location
More Rafting
Bighorn Sheep Canyon Rafting
A popular stretch of the Arkansas River featuring Class II-III rapids, wildlife viewing opportunities, and canyon scenery—ideal for families and first-time rafters.
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The Royal Gorge Section
The most dramatic section of the Arkansas, running directly through the 1,000-foot-deep Royal Gorge with Class IV-V rapids and walls towering overhead.
Learn more