(CAÑON CITY, Colo.) — Of all the summer activities to do in the Royal Gorge region, there is no better way to cool off in the summer than to hop in the Arkansas River and swim within the flowing water. People also enjoy reading books or hanging out with friends and family while listening to the rushing sounds of the river. The Royal Gorge Whitewater Festival in Cañon City is the perfect place to do all of these things.

Courtesy: FOX21’s Hunter Phipps

Charlie and Tucker, from Cañon City, attended the festival and plan to come every summer. They are used to being around the water. That’s why they were part of the competitive watercraft races and decided to participate in the ducky dash.

“You’ll get in this… kind of like a kayak, except it’s open,” Tucker said. “We’ll get in there and we’ll go down to the finish line below the bridge.”

The races range from casual to a very intense pace as the competitiveness ramps up. The events range from kayaking to rafting and even paddleboarding.

Ellie, who participated in the races for the first time this year, decided to try her hand in a surfing competition. “It’s pretty exciting,” Ellie said.

In between the races, people get in on the river action just for fun, as they surf and swim, and people gather along the rocks to watch all of the action. Beyond the water fun, there were other activities, from live music to food, ice cream, and even a wiener dog race later in the day. For some, there is no better way to enjoy the summer in the Royal Gorge region.

Courtesy: FOX21’s Hunter Phipps

“Come out during this time of the year, it’s just spectacular,” Tucker said.

All of the proceeds will benefit organizations involved with the festival, including the non-profit, Royal Gorge RIO, a river initiative organization that will use the funds to focus on water safety education, river conservation, and whitewater recreation.