[Cañon City, Colorado] — White-water rafting is a big deal here. Everyone, from newbie rafters  to the most seasoned river rats, will tell you that a raft trip on the Arkansas River is a thrilling adventure. Do it through the granite-walled Royal Gorge, which forms a perfect tunnel for this wild and turbulent river, and you’re sure to agree it’s the ride of a lifetime, one that makes Disney’s E-rides pale in comparison. Those seeking a more moderate adventure appropriate for first-time floaters or those traveling with children will delight in the scenic beauty and family friendly rapids of Bighorn Sheep Canyon located just upstream from the Royal Gorge.

You’ll be in good company. The Arkansas is the most widely rafted river in America (north, south, or central). At 1,459 miles, it is also the fourth longest, and one of the largest tributaries to the Mississippi River.

You’ll also get wet. The river originates near Leadville, Colo., at Mount Massive, and drops 9,000 feet in just 150 miles to reach Cañon City. Depending on the time of year,  snow pack, water height, and recent rains, you could get very wet. Spring snow melt and runoff can make the ride very interesting. And, in late summer, when the river is less active and the ambient air temperature much hotter, a good dousing or a planned dunk can be a welcome relief. With its churning water and Class III-Class V rapids like Sunshine Falls, Sledgehammer, and Boat Eater—yup, this is a really fun one—you can bet this will be a wet ride.

When you’re not paddling, be looking. Whatever time of year you raft it, the scenery is spectacular and the wildlife viewing exciting. In the deepest part of the Gorge, rugged cliffs climb to 1,000 feet on either side. Plants hang precariously from the granite walls and Big Horn sheep roam its steep rocky ledges. Foraging for food, deer  prance delicately along the riverbanks. Small animals—like rabbits and squirrels—dart  in and out of the vegetation. Eagles soar above, dipping dangerously close to the water to get a bird’s-eye view of you on your raft. Looking for lunch perhaps?

Royal Gorge rafting adventures come in all sizes and shapes. There is something for everyone, from families and first-time floaters looking for a gentle ride to experienced rafters looking for “adrenaline rafts” which are designed to aggressively navigate even the most challenging rapids.

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