Raft and Rail THROUGH THE ROYAL GORGE
Each Raft and Rail package begins at Echo Canyon’s rafting check-in area, where we’ll greet your group or family and drive you down to the Royal Gorge Route Depot near historic downtown Cañon City. You’ll take a 2 hour train ride through the incomparable scenery of the Royal Gorge, at the feet of thousand-foot canyon walls, enjoying the engineering wonder of the world famous Royal Gorge Bridge. You might even catch a glimpse of white water rafting as you ride along the Arkansas River. After the Royal Gorge Route Train ride, we’ll shuttle you back to Echo Canyon and the 8 Mile Bar & Grill, where you can relax and enjoy a delicious meal served on our scenic patio overlooking the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Lunch is on your own, so you can eat light and grab a delicious appetizer or go big with our mouth-watering burgers. Then, you’ll prepare for your white water rafting trip by obtaining safety and splash gear (if / when necessary based on weather conditions).
Choose the Class of Train Service You Prefer
When making reservations for this Royal Gorge rafting and train ride package, you have a few options to consider. Firstly, which class of train car would you like to ride in? Coach Class allows you to enjoy reserved seating for the duration of the trip and also the option to walk outside to the open cars. You can purchase snacks from the dining car as well. Alternatively, the Vista Dome class offers reserved seating in historic train cars with famed domed glass ceilings. These cars provide a fabulous view of the Royal Gorge from the comfort of plush seating. Vista Dome ticket holders may order from a full menu of delicious meals and are also welcome to walk outside to the open cars at will.
Customize Your White Water Adventure
Secondly, your white water rafting trip portion of our Royal Gorge rafting and train ride package is also customizable. There are three different white water rafting trips to choose from with the Raft and Rail package, each with varying levels of rapids: mild, intermediate, or adventure-class.
- Mild: Family Float Raft and Rail – For families or groups looking for a white water rafting trip that is perfectly suitable for kids as young as 4 to 5 years of age.
- Intermediate: Bighorn Sheep Canyon Raft and Rail – On this section, you will encounter 8 miles of whitewater with a dozen fabulous rapids ranging from Class II-III. Beginning with Five Points and ending in a dizzying finale with Spinner, these rapids will keep you on your toes and asking for more! Intended for families and groups with kids ages 6 and up.
- Advanced: Royal Gorge Raft and Rail – The Royal Gorge provides world-class whitewater in one of the most scenic locations around the globe. Find yourself paddling through Class IV-V rapids such as Sunshine Falls, Wallslammer, and Boat Eater. Even inexperienced rafters can conquer this section, but all participants should be in good physical condition with the ability to swim. Recommended minimum age 14 to 18 depending on river flows.
* Please note that whitewater is subject to varying water level and conditions, and some raft and rail trips may be altered according to changes throughout the season.
Whether you want a mild, family-oriented trip, an intermediate white water rafting experience, or a full-on Royal Gorge white water adrenaline adventure, Echo Canyon can accommodate your group. Call us at 800-755-3246 to book your Royal Gorge rafting and train ride combo today! Seating on the Raft and Rail trip is often limited, so make reservations early if possible.
