Bighorn Sheep Canyon is Colorado's warmest and most family-friendly rafting section on the Arkansas River, featuring gentle Class II-III rapids through stunning sandstone cliffs. Located near Cañon City and just over an hour from Colorado Springs, this 8-mile stretch offers a perfect introduction to whitewater rafting with its milder rapids and scenic float sections. The warmer water temperatures and colorful canyon walls make it ideal for young children (ages 4+) and first-time rafters. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with bighorn sheep frequently spotted on the canyon walls.
Snapshot
Important information for this section of river
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Water Level
FAQ: What's the current water level for Bighorn Sheep Canyon?
304 CFS
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FAQ: What's the ideal range for this section of river?
300 – 2,000 CFS
Common Questions
What paddlers most often want to know about Bighorn Sheep Canyon.
What class of rapids does Bighorn Sheep Canyon on the Arkansas River have?
Bighorn Sheep Canyon features Class II–III rapids, making it one of the friendlier sections of the Arkansas River. The rapids are engaging but forgiving, ideal for families and first-time rafters.
Is Bighorn Sheep Canyon suitable for families with young children?
Yes — Bighorn Sheep Canyon is one of Colorado's most family-friendly rafting sections. Outfitters typically allow children as young as 4 years old, the water is warmer than upper Arkansas sections, and the rapids are manageable without being boring.
What is the ideal flow range for Bighorn Sheep Canyon?
Bighorn Sheep Canyon runs best between 300 and 2,000 CFS. Flows in the 600–1,200 CFS range offer the most fun Class II–III experience; above 2,000 CFS the character becomes more demanding.
Do you need a permit to raft Bighorn Sheep Canyon on the Arkansas River?
No permit is required for Bighorn Sheep Canyon. It is a freely accessible run near Cañon City, Colorado.
Where does Bighorn Sheep Canyon start and end on the Arkansas River?
Bighorn Sheep Canyon runs approximately 8 miles along the Arkansas River near Cañon City, Colorado, downstream from the Royal Gorge section and upstream of the Parkdale put-in used for other Arkansas runs.
Weather Forecast
What's the daily forecast at the put-in for Bighorn Sheep Canyon?