White-water rafting is a big deal here. Everyone, from newbie rafters  to the most seasoned river rats, will tell you that a raft trip on the Arkansas River is a thrilling adventure. Do it through the granite-walled Royal Gorge, which forms a perfect tunnel for this wild and turbulent river, and you’re sure to agree it’s the ride of a lifetime, one that makes Disney’s E-rides pale in comparison. Those seeking a more moderate adventure appropriate for first-time floaters or those traveling with children will delight in the scenic beauty and family friendly rapids of Bighorn Sheep Canyon located just upstream from the Royal Gorge.

You’ll be in good company. The Arkansas is the most widely rafted river in America (north, south, or central). At 1,459 miles, it is also the fourth longest, and one of the largest tributaries to the Mississippi River.

You’ll also get wet. The river originates near Leadville, Colo., at Mount Massive, and drops 9,000 feet in just 150 miles to reach Cañon City. Depending on the time of year,  snow pack, water height, and recent rains, you could get very wet. Spring snow melt and runoff can make the ride very interesting. And, in late summer, when the river is less active and the ambient air temperature much hotter, a good dousing or a planned dunk can be a welcome relief. With its churning water and Class III-Class V rapids like Sunshine Falls, Sledgehammer, and Boat Eater—yup, this is a really fun one—you can bet this will be a wet ride.

When you’re not paddling, be looking. Whatever time of year you raft it, the scenery is spectacular and the wildlife viewing exciting. In the deepest part of the Gorge, rugged cliffs climb to 1,000 feet on either side. Plants hang precariously from the granite walls and Big Horn sheep roam its steep rocky ledges. Foraging for food, deer  prance delicately along the riverbanks. Small animals—like rabbits and squirrels—dart  in and out of the vegetation. Eagles soar above, dipping dangerously close to the water to get a bird’s-eye view of you on your raft. Looking for lunch perhaps?

Royal Gorge rafting adventures come in all sizes and shapes. There is something for everyone, from families and first-time floaters looking for a gentle ride to experienced rafters looking for “adrenaline rafts” which are designed to aggressively navigate even the most challenging rapids.

Several rafting companies offer packages which combine a ride on the Royal Gorge Route with a raft trip. For package details, see display ads, this issue, for Echo Canyon’s Raft-n-Rail® (page 19), Raft Masters Rail-and-Raft  (page  2), and Arkansas River Tours River & Rails (page 21). Other companies may also offer train and raft packages.

For those who prefer a four-legged horse to an iron horse, Echo Canyon’s Paddle-n-Saddle trip might be just the ticket. Echo Canyon also offers a romantic combo: Whitewater Wine-n-Dine, with an evening’s stay at Jewel of the Canyon
B&B and a delicious dinner at LePetit Chablis. Guided fishing trips are also available on the river.

Rafting the Arkansas River is not limited to the Royal Gorge—there are other options as well. Try a full day or an overnite trip to explore some of the river’s side canyons.

What to bring
• Clothes and shoes that can get wet
• Sports sandals must have ankle strap
• Backpack or duffle bag/dry clothing
• Hat or cap
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• (For Rail Riders) Cash for snacks and
   drinks
• Gratuities for river guides

What to expect
Class I: Easy, no rapids, smooth water
Class II: Novice, some rough water
Class III: Intermediate, whitewater but very safe for larger rafts
Class IV: Advanced, whitewater for experienced paddlers only, water may hide hazards
Class V: Expert, whitewater for advanced paddlers, water may hide hazards avoided only by precise maneuvering
Class VI: Defined as impassable or only for teams of experts