Explore Trips

Arkansas River Shuttles & Gear Rentals

Arkansas River Vehicle Shuttle Services

Salida East downstream through Cañon City

Skip the hassle of coordinating multiple vehicles and spend more time on the water. Our professional shuttle service transports your vehicle between Arkansas River access points from Salida East downstream through Cañon City, so it’s waiting for you when you finish your float.

During checkout, simply select the mileage range and provide your launch location, takeout, vehicle information, and preferred shuttle details or give us a call at 719-942-4362 to book!

Map of our Shuttle Coverage on the Arkansas RIver

The river mile markers below are measured downstream from Salida East (Mile 0.0) and can help you estimate shuttle distances, identify common put-ins and take-outs, and choose the correct shuttle mileage when booking. Arkansas River Tours provides vehicle shuttle service along this 56-mile stretch of the Arkansas River, from Salida East through Cañon City, including Bighorn Sheep Canyon and the Royal Gorge.

Arkansas River Mileage & Access Points

Upper Bighorn Sheep Canyon
  • 0.0 miles – Salida East (popular put-in)
  • 7.0 miles – Rincon (boat ramp and campground)
  • 15.5 miles – Vallie Bridge (common put-in/take-out, river right)
Lower Bighorn Sheep Canyon
  • 36.5 miles – Texas Creek (major commercial and private put-in/take-out, river left)
  • 41.5 miles – Parkdale (last take-out before entering the Royal Gorge)
Royal Gorge to Cañon City
  • 42.5 miles – Royal Gorge Bridge & Park (entrance to the Royal Gorge; expert Class IV+ whitewater)
  • 50.5 miles – Five Points / U.S. Highway 50 (popular take-out after exiting the Gorge)
  • 56.0 miles – Cañon City

River Gear Rentals​

Arkansas River Equipment Rentals

Need equipment for your self-guided river day? Rent quality river gear from Arkansas River Tours and spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying the Arkansas River.

All rentals are available for full-day use between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Pick up from our Cotopaxi Office at 19487 US-50, Cotopaxi, CO 81223, USA. 

  • Single Inflatable Kayak Rental $75

    Includes inflatable kayak, paddle, PFD (life jacket) & helmet

  • 13-Foot Raft Rental $175

    Includes 13' raft, paddles, PFDs, & helmets

  • Oar Frame Rental $50

    Add an oar frame to your raft for greater control and easier rowing on longer floats.

  • Fishing Frame Rental $100

    Designed for anglers who want a stable platform for floating and fishing the Arkansas River.

  • Personal Rafting Gear Package $30/person

    Includes wetsuit, neoprene booties, & splash jacket

Why Rent From Arkansas River Tours?

Quality Equipment

Our rental fleet is maintained by the same experienced team that has guided guests on the Arkansas River for decades.

Convenient Pickup

Pick up your equipment in the morning and enjoy a full day on the water before returning everything by 5:00 PM.

One-Stop Shop

Reserve your shuttle and your equipment together for an easy, streamlined experience.

Have Questions? Give us a shout!

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