Arkansas River Rafting
The Arkansas River through Salida is one of the most rafted rivers in the United States. From beginner-friendly floats to heart-pounding Class V rapids, the Arkansas delivers unforgettable whitewater adventures through stunning canyon scenery.
About the Arkansas River
Salida sits at the heart of the Arkansas River, one of Colorado's most legendary whitewater destinations. The river offers distinct sections catering to all experience levels — from gentle family floats to the punishing Class V+ Royal Gorge.
Brown's Canyon National Monument — just downstream from Salida near Nathrop — protects a spectacular stretch of Class III-IV rapids through granite canyon walls, making it one of the most-rafted corridors in the country.
Peak season runs from late May through early September, with the highest flows (and most excitement) in May and June during snowmelt. Fall rafting is mellower but beautiful as the canyon turns gold.
Trip Types
Numbers Section
Half dayExpert-only upstream stretch with continuous technical rapids. One of the hardest commercially rafted runs in Colorado.
Brown's Canyon
Half or full dayThe most popular run through the National Monument. Exciting rapids, stunning scenery, ideal for intermediate adventurers.
Bighorn Sheep Canyon
Half dayScenic and accessible for beginners and families. Named for the bighorn sheep that frequent the canyon walls.
Royal Gorge
Full dayAmerica's deepest canyon creates some of Colorado's most dramatic whitewater below 1,000-foot granite walls.
What to Know
Most outfitters provide wetsuits, helmets, and all equipment
Book at least 1-2 weeks in advance for summer weekends
Minimum age varies by section — Class V requires 14+
Water levels vary significantly — check conditions before booking
Getting Here
Salida, CO 81201 — most outfitters on US Hwy 50
3 hrs from Denver · 2 hrs from Colorado Springs
Best Season
Featured Adventure Partners
1 hour east of Salida — Royal Gorge region
Whitewater Rafting · Class IV–V
Royal Gorge Rafting
Expert-guided trips through the Royal Gorge
The most dramatic commercially-rafted stretch in Colorado — Class IV–V rapids between 1,053-foot canyon walls. Half-day and full-day trips daily. All gear included. Located 1 hour east of Salida.
Book Your Rafting TripZipline · Adventure
Royal Gorge Zipline Tours
Soar 1,200 feet above the Royal Gorge
Colorado's most thrilling zipline experience — multiple courses along the canyon rim with lines soaring over 1,200 feet above the gorge floor. Open spring through fall. Perfect add-on after a rafting trip.
Book Zipline ToursLuxury Glamping · Lodging
Royal Gorge Vacation Rentals
Stay in the canyon country
Yurts, Airstreams, and cozy cabins in a stunning canyon setting near Canon City — the perfect basecamp for a multi-day Royal Gorge adventure. Wake up surrounded by canyon wilderness.
Browse RentalsWorth the Drive — Royal Gorge Region
Raft Class IV–V rapids, zipline 1,200 feet above the canyon, dine at a local icon, or glamour-camp under canyon walls. Plan your full Salida adventure.
Royal Gorge Rafting
World-class whitewater rafting, just 1 hour east of Salida. Class IV-V Royal Gorge section trips.
Royal Gorge Zipline Tours
Colorado's most thrilling zipline experience — soar 1,200 feet above the Royal Gorge canyon.
Royal Gorge Vacation Rentals
Luxury lodging near the Royal Gorge — yurts, cabins, and Airstreams. The ultimate basecamp.
Royal Gorge Epic Adventures
The ultimate adventure hub — rafting, zipline, and lodging packages near Canon City.
WhiteWater Bar & Grill
Canon City's premier dining experience — great food and drinks in a lively atmosphere.
Rooftop Social
Canon City's rooftop bar and restaurant with stunning views — the perfect spot after a day of adventure.