Review #1011
2026-081
Calico River Rapids (4: High Thrill) is a fun white water raft ride that's perfect for the summer or any heat during the year! Formerly known as BigFoot Rapids, it transitioned in 2019 with new storytelling elements, added animatronic wildlife & Bigfoot. I question Knott's 4 rating as it's relatively mild in comparison to Magic Mountain's Roaring Rapids; I say it's more of a 3 (Moderate Thrill).
Situated at the back edge of Ghost Town, the former rendition didn't have any Bigfoot theme or decor to align with its name, which didn't make sense. After the revamp, there seems to be a back story of Ghost Town (intro of Colter & Potts, pioneers that explored the Calico River territory) that complements the ride instead of distancing itself. The circular rafts hold 6 riders with a minimum 46" height requirement.
Our family of 4 usually take up 1, & have paired a few times for parties of 2 when it's super busy. Designed to be a free-floating ride, riders are at the whim of the rapids & have no physical control on how much one gets splashed. However, given the momentum of the spin & partnership with my nearby seat mates, I feel it is possible to shift the spinning to avoid getting more wet by throwing our weight around as a unit. I don't mind getting wet, but hate getting my sneakers soaked; I counter this by resting them on the center foot ring. I have read on Reddit that there's a dry compartment in the center to store bags & spare shoe, but some users say it's not completely waterproof... I always forget to verify this tip. Can someone please confirm (stored belongings getting wet)? If you truly want your stuff to remain dry, there's paid dedicated lockers nearby the park's main entrance & Ghost Town, or you can hike over to GhostRider's lockers, which are complimentary for the 1st 2 hours.
If you're not into getting wet yourself, bystanders can use interactive water cannons by the bridge near Pony Express to spray family members & friends. ;-) Hehehe... but watch out, the cannons can backfire & splash the shooter! \(`0´)/
If you're looking for a break from the heat, Calico River Rapids is the perfect joyride to cool off!
Highly Recommended: Yep! read more