Begin Your Colorado Rafting Adventure
Enjoy Your Dream Colorado Whitewater Rafting Trip With Echo Canyon
White water rafting in Colorado is the adventure you’ve been waiting for, with some of the best rapids in the world.
Just about an hour away from Colorado Springs, near both Canon City and the spectacular Royal Gorge, Echo Canyon puts together the perfect adventure to fill out your Rocky Mountain vacation or trip. Float down picturesque canyons, or paddle through a succession of class IV rapids. Explore rugged wilderness during the day, and relax in idyllic mountain towns at night. You may even get lucky enough to spot some of the wildlife that the Rocky Mountains are known for!
At Echo Canyon River Expeditions, we are dedicated to helping you craft your perfect Colorado white water rafting vacation. We offer day trips and overnight excursions to all of the best spots in the state. With decades of experience, we have the know-how to help you with every aspect of your trip. From luxury cabins to the best beer in the West, we’ll help you plan the perfect trip. Join us for a Colorado rafting trip you will never forget!
Why Go Rafting in Colorado With Echo Canyon?
There are countless reasons to select Colorado for your next rafting adventure, and we may be a bit partial, but the beauty of this state is undeniable. Experience firsthand why Colorado rafting is considered the ultimate outdoor excitement, offering everything from gentle streams to exhilarating white-water rapids. Whether you seek a tranquil journey or a thrilling ride, Colorado has the perfect experience waiting for you.
Reason #1
Rafting For Every Skill Level
The Arkansas River meets you where you’re at: Whether that’s a rafting trip for the family or rapids that get your blood pumping.
Beginner Friendly and Easy: Looking for something just barely more thrilling than the lazy river? Our Scenic Float trip will have you soaking in miles of pristine wilderness as you float down this relaxing stretch of the Arkansas.
Family Adventure: The Bighorn Cheep Canyon trip offers rafting that’s relaxing, fun, and perfect for the whole family. White water rafting in Colorado has never been better than on these exciting class II-III rapids!
Action & Adventure: If white water is calling your name, The Royal Gorge is your trip. Paddle through class III to V rapids while taking in the famous Royal Gorge Bridge.
Reason #2
Access to the best rivers
Whether you’re staying in downtown Denver or in the mountains, you’ll have access to the best Colorado whitewater rafting trips. Maybe the best white water rafting can be found near Colorado Springs in Cañon City. We think the perfect rafting trip in Colorado is the Royal Gorge rafting trip. Just outside Colorado Springs, the trip puts you in the heart of a 1,000 foot canyon. Pair your Royal Gorge trip with zip-lining, train rides, or a visit to the breathtaking Royal Gorge bridge!
Reason #3
Top-tier accommodations
There’s nothing better than rolling out of bed and hopping on the river. Well, maybe waking up under a feather-top comforter and a Colorado bluebird sky and then paddling down the river. The Royal Gorge cabins offer a hint of rugged outdoors with all of the luxuries you can imagine.
An indoor/outdoor fireplace and propane grills at every cabin mean you can relax after a day of adventure on the river. Don’t worry about bringing plates, silverware or glasses. We’ve got you covered. Just bring along some snacks, your favorite wine and a sense of adventure.
The Most Popular Colorado Rafting Trips
Raft The Arkansas River
The rafting excursions at Echo Canyon on the Arkansas River are some of the most popular Colorado rafting trips you can experience. This includes the Royal Gorge section (for the more experienced adrenaline junkies), the Bighorn Sheep Canyon section (for the less experienced, intermediate adventurers and families) and the popular Scenic Float Trip (for the beginning, inexperienced rafters and families with kids 4-5 years of age first getting their toes wet). Not sure which section of the river is best for your group or closest to where you’re staying while visiting? Allow us to help – we want your experience to be like no other, so we will steer you in the right direction.
Royal Gorge Rafting Trip
Experience thrilling class III to V rapids deep in the heart of the Royal Gorge. Located near Colorado Springs, this trip is available as a half-day or full-day raft trip.
Half-Day Trip Price: $142 per person
Bighorn Sheep Canyon Rafting Trip
Blend miles of scenic beauty with class II to IV rapids. Near Colorado Springs and the Royal Gorge, this trip is offered as a half-day or full-day trip.
Half-Day Trip Price: $132 per person
Scenic Float Rafting Trip
Relax with your kids on this gentle, laid-back float down the Arkansas River. The Scenic Float includes class II to III rapids, and is available as a half-day raft trip.
Trip Price: $132 per person
Arkansas River Multi-Day Rafting Trips
Unplug for 2-3 days on a multi-day rafting trip near Colorado Springs. Trips include transportation from the Echo office, as well as all meals and camping gear.
Multi-Day Trip Prices: start at $599 per person
Scout and Youth Group Trips
Bring your scout group or youth group to Echo for an exciting and educational half-day, full-day white water rafting trip.
Trip Prices Start at $132 per person
Battle of the Bighorn Rafting Trip
Battle alongside your teammates to be the first raft through Bighorn Sheep Canyon while completing a series of challenges along the way.
Base Price: $750 + $132 per person
More Outdoor Activities
Why stop at rafting? Colorado offers outdoor adventure at its finest, so tack on another experience to your Colorado rafting trip. We offer numerous zipline and rafting combinations, including the Royal Gorge Zipline and the Bighorn Sheep Canyon Zipline. If you do visit the Royal Gorge, don’t miss out on the Royal Gorge Bridge and Train Ride. Contact our rafting experts today for more information on booking the perfect outdoor experience.
Colorado Rafting Frequently Asked Questions
While there are many options to choose from, the Arkansas River is home to world-class rapids and pristine mountain beauty. All levels of rafters will enjoy Bighorn Sheep Canyon, with half-day and full-day trips that mix relaxation and excitement. Or try our Scenic Float, where even the youngest beginners will be able to experience the river.
Our Scenic Float trip is perfect for young children, parents looking to relax, and grandparents in need of a peaceful experience. You’ll take a laid-back float down the Arkansas River, not far from Colorado Springs.
While there isn’t a “best time” for Colorado white water rafting trips, there are seasonal differences that are important to consider. We run trips from mid-April through mid-September. July through early September tends to be sunny and warm. Mid-May through early June trips run a bit cooler, with a greater chance of afternoon showers. While May and June tend to be cooler, they are also considered the best months for white water rafting in Colorado.
Be sure to bring sunscreen, secure shoes, water, and snacks. You can find a complete list of what we recommend you bring here.