Royal Gorge, Colorado

Looking for the best Royal Gorge river rafting experience? Performance Tours offers amazing rafting experiences in the stunning Royal Gorge region of Colorado. In this section of the Arkansas River, you will find a high desert landscape surrounded by beautiful views of canyon walls, the highest suspension bridge in North America, and the beautiful Rocky Mountains in every direction. The Royal Gorge is one of the deepest canyons in Colorado, and sections of the canyon have walls that tower over 1000 feet high. The impressive Royal Gorge Bridge towers over the river and crosses at a height of 955 feet over the roaring river below. It is quite an impressive sight from the canyon valley and is one of the highlights of rafting trips here. The powerful Arkansas River starts high in the snowcapped Rocky Mountains and provides some of the best rafting anywhere. Our guides know every section of the Arkansas River like the back of their hand and have led thousands of guests through rapids as they travel down this amazing river. Our whitewater rafting trips in the Royal Gorge give you access to an adventure unlike anything else, and our trips are truly ones you will never forget. These trips are great options for those staying in Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Canon City, and other nearby cities. Our Royal George office is located at the turn for the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, making it easy to add an unforgettable rafting adventure to your Royal Gorge experience.

Royal Gorge

Our Royal Gorge whitewater rafting experiences lead you through some of the most impressive and unique sections of the Arkansas River. There are breathtaking views around every bend of the river, and our guides will help your group travel across rapids like Sunshine Falls, Sledgehammer, Wallslammer, Boateater, and many more. While rafting, watch for deer, bighorn sheep, and eagles, as they are abundant in this area. This trip can range in difficulty, and early summer will feature higher flows that can be more difficult. Later in the season, as the water levels lower, the minimum age may drop to 14 years old. No matter if you are a seasoned expert or a first-time rafter, whitewater rafting at the Royal Gorge is sure to impress your group and leave you with some unforgettable memories.

Bighorn Sheep Canyon

Bighorn Sheep Canyon is located just north of the Royal Gorge and is the perfect spot for first-time rafters and families. This impressive section of river passes through a beautiful canyon known for holding Colorado’s largest herd of bighorn sheep. It is perfect for those looking for excitement at a slower pace. On this section of the river, your guide will take you across rapids like 3 rocks, 5 points, Spike Buck, Double Dip, Sharks Tooth, Texas Creek, and Lose Your Lunch. This whitewater rafting adventure in Royal Gorge, Colorado is sure to provide unforgettable memories filled with splashes, thrilling sections of rapids, plenty of sunshine, and breathtaking views.

Performance Tours has been a leader in Royal Gorge whitewater rafting for over 35 years! Our goal is always to prioritize guest safety, while delivering trips that are memorable for your entire group. Rafting is an experience unlike anything else in Colorado, and no trip to the Royal Gorge is complete without a rafting adventure with our team. Our Royal Gorge outpost is located just one hour south of Colorado Springs and just minutes from Canon City. Join us for a day of unforgettable outdoor fun!

Choose Performance Tours for the best whitewater rafting in the Royal Gorge.

Directions

Denver to Royal Gorge

Take I-25 south to Colorado Springs, then to Hwy 115 South (Nevada Ave. exit 140 off of I-25 ) out of Colorado Springs. Turn right onto the US Hwy 50 west exit, which is also the Canon City exit. Continue on US Hwy 50 west and go 8 miles west of Canon City to the turnoff for the Royal Gorge Bridge. Turn left at the turnoff and we are approximately ¼ mile down from Hwy 50 on the right.

Denver to Royal Gorge Google Maps Directions

Colorado Springs to Royal Gorge

Take Hwy 115 south (Nevada Ave. exit 140 off of I-25) out of Colorado Springs. Turn right onto the US Hwy 50 west exit, which is also the Canon City exit. Continue on US Hwy 50 west and go 8 miles west of Canon City to the turnoff for the Royal Gorge Bridge. Turn left at the turnoff, and we are approximately ¼ mile down from Hwy 50 on the right.

Colorado Springs to Royal Gorge Google Maps Directions

Dining near the Royal Gorge

If you’re looking for a great meal after a day at the Royal Gorge, you’re in luck – there are plenty of fantastic restaurants nearby and here is a list of our favorites!

Lodging near the Royal Gorge

Guests can choose from many hotels and lodging properties in Buena Vista. Check out a few of our recommendations below!

Things to do After Your Royal Gorge Whitewater Rafting Experience

Make sure to refuel after your Royal Gorge Whitewater rafting trip by stopping into one of our favorite restaurants in the area. Big Burger World is an old school hamburger stand offering juicy burgers, BBQ, chicken and salads for the health nut. If you are looking for a more traditional and hearty meal, stop into Di Rito’s, serving up the best authentic, Italian food in the area. If you are looking for a place to stay, check out Big Horn Mountain Top Lodge, where you can stay on the edge of the Royal Gorge and take in the entire mountain range. Experience a unique stay, at short drive away at the Kinship Landing boutique hotel in Colorado Springs.