If Disney’s “Pirates of the Caribbean” theme park ride causes you to panic, then the Royal Gorge rafting trip is probably not up your alley! However, it is for all those crusaders interested in the extreme thrill ride!

Brief History: The Royal Gorge Bridge is a tourist attraction near Canon City, Colorado built above the Arkansas River. It’s supposed to be the highest suspension bridge in the world! The Royal Gorge Route Railroad runs under the bridge and along the waters edge of the Arkansas River.

I recently contacted the Royal Gorge Rafting Company in Canon City to book an end of summer rafting trip with a few friends.

Royal Gorge Rafting & the White Water Bar & Grill
45045 W. US Hwy 50 • Canon City, CO. 81212
Phone: 719 275 RAFT (7238) • Email: info@royalgorgeraft.com
http://www.royalgorgerafting.net/

The company has lots to do while you wait to suit up and head to the water…they tend to run late on their trips because they wait for all the reservations to arrive so don’t be that party running late, unless you want ugly stares when you arrive. Things to do include a tether ball (my favorite), sand volleyball court, live music, and their bar & grill.

According to the guides, the best time to go (ugliest waters) is when the snow is just starting to melt in June. The later you wait the slower the water moves, unless you get some good rain a day or two before. The trips vary between 10 to 20 miles in length or half day vs. full day. The class levels ranges from 3 to 5, so there are some serious rapids!

This is one of the many great outdoor possibilities if you live in Denver!