Canon City, Colorado
Located only a little over an hour away from Colorado Springs and near the unique Canon City, the Royal Gorge offers a breathtaking escape into nature, combining adventure, history, and stunning landscapes. Known as the Grand Canyon of the Arkansas, the Royal Gorge is a 1,250-foot-deep canyon which was carved by the Arkansas River over millions of years. the region is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts with activities like hiking and rafting, but you don't have to be an outdoor enthusiast to appreciate the beauty of this canyon.
Royal Gorge Bridge & Park
If you like to admire canyons from the rim, the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is where you need to go. The park features one of the highest suspension bridges in the world. The original bridge was built in 1929 and spans 1,260 feet across the canyon, offering panoramic views of the steep granite walls and the river far below. I say original because a fire took out much of the bridge's infrastructure and it had to be rebuilt. Walking across the bridge is an impressive experience, but if you have a fear of heights, you might choose to avoid this bridge on a windy day.
In addition to the bridge, the park features a variety of attractions with at least one option for everyone. If you want a peaceful ride over the canyon with unbeatable views, you can take the gondola to the other side. If you want to up the thrill a little big, you can zipline over the canyon for an extra cost. If you're really a thrill seeker, you can try the Royal
The park also has several scenic trails for hiking, leading to various overlooks with different perspectives of the gorge. The Canyon Rim Trail is a popular option, providing easy access to breathtaking viewpoints without requiring intense physical effort.
Nearby Stays
For those looking to stay overnight near the Royal Gorge, there are plenty of options ranging from rustic campgrounds to comfortable resorts.
Located right on the banks of the Arkansas River, this glamping experience offers a serene camping experience just minutes from the gorge. This campground is perfect for those looking to connect with nature, featuring both one-of-a-kind airstream and yurt accomodations. The sound of the river creates a peaceful atmosphere, and the campground provides easy access to fishing, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
If you prefer a little more comfort, the Royal Gorge Cabins are an excellent option. These luxury cabins are located just a short drive from the gorge and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The cabins and glamping options can room one to four people, but opt for the cabins if you want a little more privacy. After a day of exploring the gorge, you can relax in front of the fireplace or enjoy a meal outside while taking in the sunset.
East Ridge Campground
East Ridge Campground is a newly constructed recreation area near the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park featuring 23 tent and RV sites. Despite the claim that booking can be made online, I did not find this to be true when I stayed there. At this time, I would consider it to be a first-come-first-serve campground that only takes cash. The campground offers stunning views and has several short and easy trails nearby that make for great walks, runs, or biking outings.
Royal Gorge Railroad
No trip to the Royal Gorge would be complete without experiencing the famous Royal Gorge Route Railroad. This historic train journey takes you on a two-hour ride through the bottom of the canyon, offering a completely different perspective of the gorge. The Royal Gorge Railroad dates back to the late 19th century, when it was originally built as part of the competition between the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad and the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway for control of the narrow canyon. The result of this "Royal Gorge War" was a spectacular railway line that hugs the canyon walls and crosses the Arkansas River via a hanging bridge. Today, the train operates as a scenic tour, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the gorge from the comfort of vintage rail cars.
The Royal Gorge Route Railroad offers several classes of service, ranging from coach seating to first-class dining. Regardless of the class, all passengers can access the open-air cars, which provide unobstructed views of the towering canyon walls, the river, and the wildlife that call the gorge home. I will note, that with the coach tickets you do not get to pick your spot and only one side of train has the views ot the gorge. The other side faces the steep walls for both the outbound and return journeys. Additionally, the open-air cars face a similar issue as more and more passengers leave their seats to experience the views.
The train passes under the Royal Gorge Bridge, giving passengers a unique view of the bridge from the bottom of the canyon. Along the way, you'll learn about the history of the railroad and the gorge through narration provided by the train staff. For those looking to elevate their experience, the train offers themed trips and gourmet meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner as you glide through the canyon, with the option to pair your meal with wine, craft beer, and cocktails from the train's bar.
Nearby Activities in the Area
While the Royal Gorge is the main attraction, the surrounding area offers plenty of additional activities for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Arkansas River is known for its excellent whitewater rafting, with rapids ranging from Class II to Class V. Several outfitters offer guided trips, making it easy to experience the thrill of the river safely.
Beyond the park, the Royal Gorge Region has miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking. The Oil Well Flats trail system is a favorite among mountain bikers, offering challenging terrain and stunning views.
For a more adrenaline-pumping experience, you can try zip lining across the Royal Gorge with companies like Royal Gorge Zip Line Tours. The zip lines stretch high above the canyon, offering incredible views and a heart-racing ride.
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