Explore Trips
Looking for the best whitewater rafting near Colorado Springs? You’re in luck! Some of Colorado’s most legendary rapids are just a short drive west on the Arkansas River. Whether you’re after big waves, a scenic float, or a family-friendly trip, Arkansas River Tours offers half-day and full-day rafting experiences perfect for anyone staying in or around Colorado Springs.
The Arkansas River is one of the most popular whitewater destinations in the country, and it just happens to be Colorado Springs’ backyard river. Flowing through steep canyons, granite cliffs, and high desert terrain, the Arkansas offers world-class rafting within an hour’s drive from the city.
With two convenient outposts near Colorado Springs in Cañon City and Cotopaxi, we’ve been guiding guests through thrilling rapids and unforgettable canyons for over 50 years.
Starting at $119/person
Starting at $129/person
Starting at $109/adult
& $89/youth
Starting at $514/person
Starting at $239/person
Starting at $514/person
Arkansas River Tours operates two convenient outposts within an hour and a half of the Springs! Check out which tours leave from each outpost and find the best trip for you.
1 Hour from Colorado Springs
1 Hour 20 Minutes from Colorado Springs
Located just 1 hour from Colorado Springs and 2 hours from Denver, our Cañon City outpost is the most convenient launch point for guests coming from Colorado Springs & the Front Range.
The Cotopaxi outpost is ideal for families, multi-activity adventurers, and those staying in Westcliffe, Salida, or towns west of Cañon City. This outpost services float trips, fishing trips, and full-day Bighorn adventures.
Which Colorado Springs Raft Trip Is Right For You?
First-timers and families will love Bighorn Sheep Canyon or Browns Canyon, while thrill seekers should head for the Royal Gorge. If you’re short on time, choose a half-day trip.
✔️ First-Time Rafters / Families
Go with the Bighorn Sheep Canyon or Browns Canyon rafting. These trips offer splashy, safe fun with scenic canyon views, ideal for beginners and families.
✔️ Thrill Seekers
Don’t miss the Royal Gorge. With Class III–IV+ rapids and 1,000-ft canyon walls, it’s a true Colorado bucket-list experience, just an hour from downtown Colorado Springs.
✔️ Tight on Time
Choose a half-day trip, either in the morning or afternoon. You can leave Colorado Springs in the morning and be back by dinner.
✔️ The Scenic Route
The Cottonwood Canyon family float is the perfect trip for all. Mild whitewater, gentle flows, and beautiful scenery, great for kids and seniors.
✔️ Want More Than One Day?
We offer two multi-day trips near Colorado Springs on the Arkansas River! The premier multi-day runs the Browns Canyon section and the Royal Gorge, expect big water and big fun. The family-friendly multi-day combines Brown Canyon and Bighorn Sheep Canyon and is a great introduction to multi-day rafting!
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Trip Name
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Departure Location
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Drive Time from the Springs
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Difficulty
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Ideal For
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Bighorn Sheep Canyon
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Cañon City or Cotopaxi
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~1 hour or 1.5 hours
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Class II–III
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Families, Beginners
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Royal Gorge
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Cañon City
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~1 hour
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Class III-IV+
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Thrill Seekers
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Browns Canyon
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Cotopaxi
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~1.5 hours
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Class III-IV
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Families & Adventurers
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Cotton Canyon Scenic Float
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Cotopaxi
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~1.5 hours
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Class II-III
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Seniors, Young Children
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Take our Rafting & Fishing Trip Quiz to find the perfect adventure tailored to your preferences and experience level.
When is the best time to go rafting?
The prime rafting season runs from May through September. Early summer (May-June) offers higher water levels for more thrilling rapids, while late summer (July-August) provides average river conditions and warmer temperatures, suitable for families and beginners.
Most trips are just 1 to 1.5 hours away, making rafting a perfect day trip from the city.
Absolutely. Choose a half-day morning trip, and you’ll be back in Colorado Springs in time for a late lunch or dinner.
Our Bighorn Sheep Canyon and Cottonwood Family Float trips are great for families and beginners. Kids as young as 6 are welcome, depending on river conditions.
The Bighorn offers splashy Class II–III rapids, scenic canyon views, and family-friendly experiences that are perfect for new rafters and families. The Cottonwood is more scenic with mild rapids, great for families with young kids and seniors.
At this time, all trips are meet-on-site. We recommend driving or carpooling. Check out our directions page for information on how to get to our locations!
Yes, the Cottonwood Canyon River Float is ideal for a relaxed, scenic ride. This Class I–II trip is designed for guests who want beautiful views and a calm experience rather than intense rapids.
We offer two multi-day rafting trips near Colorado Springs on the Arkansas River with private riverside camping at our exclusive campsite in Cotopaxi. With 2 or 3-day options for both our premier overnight trip and family-friendly multi-day, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for an overnight rafting trip.
We pride ourselves on delivering top-notch customer service and are here to assist you in any way we can. Let us know how we can help!