Royal Gorge Bighorn Sheep Canyon: Class III Rafting + 9-Line Zipline Tour
Pair Class III whitewater on the Arkansas River with Colorado’s top-rated 9-line zipline for a full-day adrenaline package at Royal Gorge. Expect rapids, lunch, and a mile of cables across the plateau.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear secure water shoes
Closed-toe sandals or lightweight river shoes with straps keep your feet safe during rafting and on zipline platforms.
Hydrate at altitude
Canon City sits around 5,300 ft—drink water before and between activities to avoid fatigue and headaches.
Mind the weight/age limits
Minimum age is 6; follow operator guidelines on weight limits for zipline safety and raft seating.
Layer for variable weather
Bring a light waterproof layer—conditions on the river and plateau can shift quickly even in summer.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Pull over at roadside overlooks on the Royal Gorge plateau for unobstructed views of the Arkansas River bend.
- •Short walk trails near Canon City reveal old mining ruins and interpretive plaques about the area’s railroad history.
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep
- •Red-tailed hawk
Conservation Note
Visitors are asked to stay on designated paths and follow guides to minimize riverbank erosion and disturbance to bighorn sheep habitat.
The Royal Gorge was carved by the Arkansas River over millions of years and later became a 19th-century transportation corridor for rail and mining that shaped Canon City.
What to Bring
Closed-toe water shoesEssential
Protects toes and gives traction in rafts and on slippery riverbanks.
Light waterproof jacketEssential
Shields against river spray and sudden showers on the plateau.
Small dry bag
Keeps phone, keys, and snacks dry during the raft portion.
Sunscreen & sunglasses with strapEssential
High-desert sun is strong—protect skin and keep sunglasses from blowing away on ziplines.
Common Questions
How long is the combined experience?
The full experience runs about 7 hours: transport and briefings, guided rafting down Bighorn Sheep Canyon, lunch, and the 2-hour Classic Zipline tour.
What is the minimum age and fitness requirement?
Minimum age is 6 years; participants should have at least a moderate level of fitness and no serious back, heart, or spinal conditions.
Are meals and transport included?
Lunch and transportation between activities are included as part of the tour package.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours can operate in varied conditions, but the operator may cancel for safety; cancel at least 24 hours beforehand for a full refund per the policy.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7 hours
Location
Canon City, Colorado
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—able to follow safety instruction, climb in/out of rafts, and stand on zip platforms for brief periods.
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