If you’re heading to Cody, Wyoming, and craving a splash of adventure, the Red Canyon River Trips 7 Mile Whitewater Adventure could be just what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, I’ve gathered enough details to give you a clear picture of what it offers and whether it might be a good fit for your trip.

What stand out are the professional yet fun guides who keep things lively with stories of mountain men like Jim Bridger and Buffalo Bill, and the stunning canyon scenery that you only see from the river. Plus, the family-friendly rapids mean this isn’t a white-knuckle challenge, but rather an exciting outing suitable for most ages with some basic physical fitness.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the tour lasts just about two hours, which is a good chunk of time but not overly long, so it’s ideal if you’re balancing it with other plans. The price point, at $59 per person, seems fair for a guided river adventure, especially when you factor in the included gear and safety instructions.

This tour is perfect for families, groups, or even solo adventurers looking for a scenic, fun ride on the Shoshone River. If your idea of a good time involves fresh air, lively guides, and some splashy fun, this could be a highlight of your Cody trip.

Key Points

Accessible for many: Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and looking for a family-friendly activity.
Engaging guides: Guides share entertaining mountain man tales and historical facts.
Stunning scenery: The canyons visible only from the river are a major highlight.
Flexible rental options: You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards for other lakes in Cody.
All gear included: Life vests, paddles, and safety instructions are provided for a worry-free experience.
Short but sweet: The tour lasts around 2 hours, making it easy to fit into a packed day.

What to Expect During the Whitewater Adventure

The tour departs from a centrally located spot in downtown Cody, right next to the historic Irma Hotel. Meeting time is at 2:45 PM, so plan to arrive a little early to get fitted with your gear and settle in. The actual rafting begins at 3:00 PM and runs for about two hours, covering roughly 7 miles of the scenic Shoshone River.

The rapids you’ll encounter, like Little Big Drop and Colters Falls, are described as exciting but suitable for families. This suggests a good balance — plenty of splashy fun without being overly intense or intimidating. The guides will give you safety instructions and paddling tips beforehand, which makes all the difference whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned paddler.

Throughout the trip, you’ll be floating through canyons that can only be appreciated from the water, with walls towering around you. The guides enrich the experience with stories about local history and mountain men, adding a bit of storytelling to the scenic tour. From reviews and descriptions, it seems this aspect is a big hit — folks love the “fun old mountain man tales” and the way guides keep things lively.

Wildlife sightings are also part of the excitement. While not guaranteed, many guests enjoy keeping an eye out for local animals along the riverbanks. With a professional guide leading the way, you can relax and take in the surroundings while learning some Colorado/Wyoming history.

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The Gear and Facilities

All necessary safety equipment, such as life vests, paddles, and pumps, are included. The rental process is straightforward — rent by the hour or for a full day if you want to explore other lakes afterward, like Beck Lake, Newton, or Hogan Lake. The emphasis on safety instructions and gear shows they prioritize a secure experience.

One thing to note is that all equipment must be returned by 7:00 PM, or you’ll be charged for an additional day. This is standard practice, but it’s good to keep in mind if you’re planning other activities afterward.

Pricing and Value

At $59 per person, this whitewater adventure seems like decent value, especially considering the guided aspect, gear, and the scenic experience. Guided trips often include stories and safety measures that you might not get if you went it alone, making it a smarter choice for most visitors.

Some reviews note the experience is about two hours long, which is a fair amount of time for the price. It’s not a full day’s adventure but enough to give you a strong taste of the river’s excitement and scenery without overstaying your welcome.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This trip is well-suited for families or groups wanting a memorable outing with some splash and fun. The fact that the rapids are described as family-friendly means it’s not overly intense, but still exciting enough to keep everyone engaged.

It also works well for solo travelers or couples who want to enjoy Cody’s natural beauty from a different perspective. The guides’ storytelling is a big plus, making it more than just paddling — it’s an educational, entertaining experience.

That said, if you’re someone looking for an adrenaline rush with big, challenging rapids, this might not satisfy that craving. But if scenic beauty and a fun float with a bit of splash appeal to you, you’ll likely enjoy this tour.

The Sum Up

The Red Canyon River Trips 7 Mile Whitewater Adventure offers a well-rounded, family-friendly way to explore the Shoshone River and its breathtaking canyons. The guides’ engaging stories and the scenic views make it more than just a splashy ride; it’s an experience that combines fun, history, and nature.

For travelers who want a moderate physical activity that’s safe and manageable yet exciting, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially ideal if you’re traveling with family or looking for a relaxed, scenic adventure that doesn’t require advanced paddling skills.

While it’s not a full-day escapade, what you get — two hours of guided fun, stunning scenery, and the chance to learn some local history — is a good deal for the price. Just be sure to arrive on time, follow safety instructions, and return your gear promptly.

If you’re in Cody and craving an interactive, scenic adventure on the water, this whitewater trip is definitely worth considering. It’s a chance to see the river’s beauty from a unique vantage point, with guides who make the journey both educational and enjoyable.

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Red Canyon River Trips 7 Mile Whitewater Adventure 3:00PM Daily!

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The rapids are described as family-friendly, which suggests it’s a safe choice for older children with moderate physical fitness. Always check with the operator if you have very young kids or specific concerns.

What should I wear for the trip?
While not explicitly stated, you’ll likely want to wear quick-drying clothes, a hat, and sunscreen. A water-resistant layer or rain jacket could be useful in case of splashes.

Can I rent equipment for other lakes?
Yes, the rental options include kayaks and paddleboards for lakes like Beck Lake, Newton, or Hogan Lake, available by the hour or full day.

What is the meeting point and time?
The tour meets at 1119 12th St in Cody, right next to the historic Irma Hotel, at 2:45 PM for the 3:00 PM start.

What if I need to cancel?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

How many people will be on the tour?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, which means it’s a relatively intimate experience, allowing for personalized attention from guides.

If you’re looking for a memorable, scenic, and fun river adventure in Cody, this whitewater trip appears to be a solid choice. It combines natural beauty with engaging storytelling and easygoing rapids — what more could you want for a quick outdoor escape?