Whitewater Rafting Safety

Unsurpassed Safety for 100% Fun

Whitewater rafting safety is our number 1 priority.
We fully understand any safety concerns you might have about whitewater rafting. Safety is our absolute number one priority at Royal Gorge Rafting. Here is some insight into our approach to safety for every rafting trip.

Guide Training

All of our guides exceed Colorado State Parks river guide qualifications, maintain high fitness levels to handle challenging scenarios, and hold current First Aid and CPR certifications. Many pursue advanced certifications such as Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC), Wilderness First Aid (WFA), and Swift Water Rescue Training (SRT). We are proud to employ kind, caring, and dedicated whitewater professionals who bring expertise, passion, and commitment to every river adventure.

Safety Orientation

We begin every trip with a detailed safety orientation to inform you of the possible hazards encountered white water rafting and how we mitigate these. Every guide will go over paddle instructions for you so you know exactly what needs to be done to maneuver your raft down river. It is natural to be apprehensive about whitewater rafting in Colorado but once you experience the thrill it will become an unforgettable experience!

Equipment

We issue every guest top-quality Type 5 U.S. Coast Guard approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD, Life Jacket), helmets, and a paddle.

Kayak Support

We Exclusively Employ a Team of Safety Kayakers!

Our professional safety kayakers on our Royal Gorge and High Water Bighorn trips (Class IV or more) are essential. They can identify hazards, retrieve paddles, rafts, assist swimmers, and perform heroic rescues. Their expertise in whitewater rescue enhances your safety.

For What It's Worth

While it costs us thousands of dollars each season, we’re the only rafting company in the region to employ full-time safety kayakers. You may not always need their help, but, when the unexpected occurs, our kayakers are ready to turn challenges into rescues. Enjoy with greater confidence the thrill and beauty of your adventure, knowing you’re in the best hands on the Arkansas River.

Swims Can Happen

Imagine being separated from your raft—a rare but possible scenario. That’s when our support kayaker races to action. They can quickly respond to your situation, guiding you back to safety. In those exciting moments, their assistance is priceless.