Raft-n-Rail®

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Raft-n-Rail®
Trip info

Ride the rails & waves

Start with a splash

Your day begins with a family-friendly (ages 6+) whitewater rafting with Class I-III rapids in most flows. Class IV rapids at highest flows.

Raft to rails

See the river from two unique perspectives. Start out in the water and then take the train through the canyon.

What to expect

  • You’ll take a 2 hour train ride through the incomparable scenery of the Royal Gorge
  • Start your day with paddle down the Arkansas river in Bighorn Sheep Canyon
  • 8 Mile Bar and Grill has food and beverages for purchase before/after your raft trip
  • Snacks or full meals available on the train depending on the type of reservation
  • Departs from the Echo Canyon office near Cañon City

The details

The Raft and Rail package begins at Echo Canyon’s rafting check-in area, where we’ll greet your group and get you checked in for a white water rafting trip on Bighorn Sheep Canyon. Following your morning raft trip, you’ll have time to enjoy lunch on your own at our 8 Mile Bar & Grill, where you can choose to dine indoors or on our scenic patio overlooking the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.  Next, you’ll drive 8 miles 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.

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. You’ll raft a beginner to intermediate section of whitewater known as Bighorn Sheep Canyon. We offer either paddle rafts or paddle assist rafts depending on the age of your kids or your zest for adventure!

On a paddle raft each guest has a paddle in hand, your guide will teach the ins and outs, and you will essentially be the engine while the guide calls paddle commands and steers from the back of the raft. Or, if you have kids in the 6-12 year range, we’ll recommend a paddle assist raft, where the guide controls the raft with long oars positioned in the middle of the raft, but we still bring along a couple paddles so the kids (or adults) can paddle through some of the rapids. We’ll help you choose the best option, based on your family / group.

* 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.

  • Raft-n-Rail® Coach Class $162

    Bighorn Sheep Canyon.

Due to the popularity of this package and limited availability due to COVID-19, the Raft-n-Rail® can only be reserved by phone at this time. 800-755-3246

Insider info

Booking Tips from the Experts

Make the most of your trip by following a few simple guidelines:

  • Go with the flow – river flows are best before mid-August when we usually see seasonal declines in volume
  • Rise and shine – morning trips tend to be less busy and have the best chance for sunny skies and warmer temps
  • Plan for some chill time – rafting can be tiring, build in some time for snacks and hanging out after your trip
  • Build and bundle – you can pair trips with additional activities and lodging on the same reservation
  • Stay and play – we have cabins and glamping tents on-site and endless activities in the area

Royal Gorge rafting is pure, heart-pounding adventure

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.

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About Us

45000 W US Highway 50
Cañon City, CO 81212
800-755-3246
[email protected]

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