Teal raft with a paddle crew running whitewater beneath the rocky slopes of Bighorn Sheep Canyon

Bighorn Sheep Canyon Rafting

Class range
I–III
Drive from shop
About 5 minutes
River
Arkansas River

About Bighorn Sheep Canyon

Bighorn Sheep Canyon is our backyard canyon, just downstream of Salida. The upper section has continuous Class II rapids, steep walls and boulder gardens, plus cliff jumping and swimming spots. It's the step up from the Town Run and a great middle ground for mixed groups.

You might see the bighorn sheep the canyon is named for on the cliffs above.

Rafters paddling a teal raft through riffles toward the walls of Bighorn Sheep Canyon

What makes Bighorn Sheep Canyon special

Five minutes from the shop
Continuous Class II rapids
Cliff jumping and swimming

River map

Locations are approximate. Not for navigation.

Trips in Bighorn Sheep Canyon

Raft it, paddle it in an inflatable kayak, or make it a full day.

Bighorn Sheep Canyon rafting FAQ

Is Bighorn Sheep Canyon good for kids?

Yes. Kids 5 and up can raft the half day and full day. It's a great middle ground when your group has mixed ages.

How is it different from the Town Run?

Bighorn has continuous Class II rapids, steeper canyon walls and boulder gardens. It's the step up from the Town Run.

Can we go cliff jumping?

When conditions allow, your guide will stop at spots for swimming and cliff jumping.

Can I paddle my own boat?

Yes. Our inflatable kayak trip runs Upper Bighorn Sheep Canyon from July 1 to September 30, for ages 14 and up.