Canon City: Colorado's Royal Gorge Gateway
300 days of sunshine, America's deepest canyon, world-class whitewater, and your basecamp for unforgettable Rocky Mountain adventures
Welcome to Canon City
Nestled in the Arkansas River Valley at an elevation of 5,332 feet, Canon City, Colorado is a hidden gem that offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure, rich history, and small-town charm. With over 300 days of sunshine per year and a mild high-desert climate, Canon City is an ideal year-round destination.
Often called the "Climate Capital of Colorado," Canon City enjoys warmer winters and more moderate summers than the nearby mountain towns. The surrounding red rock canyons and the dramatic Royal Gorge make this one of Colorado's most scenic regions.
The Royal Gorge
Canon City is best known as the gateway to the Royal Gorge, one of Colorado's most spectacular natural wonders. This dramatic canyon, carved by the Arkansas River over millions of years, plunges 1,250 feet deep and is spanned by one of the world's highest suspension bridges. The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park offers breathtaking views, a gondola ride across the canyon, and various family-friendly attractions.
The bridge itself is an engineering marvel, completed in 1929 at a cost of $350,000. It held the record as the world's highest suspension bridge for over 70 years. Today, visitors can walk across the 1,260-foot span, ride the aerial gondola across the canyon, or experience the thrilling Royal Rush Skycoaster.
Whitewater Capital of Colorado
The Arkansas River flowing through Canon City is renowned for world-class whitewater rafting. From gentle family floats to adrenaline-pumping Class IV rapids, the river offers something for every skill level. Several outfitters in the area provide guided trips through Bighorn Sheep Canyon and the Royal Gorge itself, making Canon City a top destination for river enthusiasts.
The rafting season typically runs from May through September, with the highest water levels (and most exciting rapids) occurring in late May and June during spring snowmelt. Late summer offers warmer water temperatures perfect for families with children.
A Rich and Colorful History
Canon City's history stretches back to the 1860s gold rush era when prospectors first explored these canyons seeking fortune. The town was officially founded in 1860 and became the county seat of Fremont County. Unlike many Colorado mining towns that went bust, Canon City thrived thanks to its strategic location, mild climate, and diverse economy.
The "Royal Gorge War"
In 1878, Canon City was the site of one of the Wild West's most famous railroad conflicts. The Denver & Rio Grande Railroad and the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway both wanted to build through the narrow Royal Gorge—but there was only room for one set of tracks. The conflict escalated into armed confrontations, with both railroads hiring gunmen (including Bat Masterson for the Santa Fe). The U.S. Supreme Court eventually ruled in favor of the Denver & Rio Grande, whose tracks still run through the gorge today on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad.
The Prison History
Canon City has been home to the Colorado State Penitentiary since 1871. The territorial prison was actually a controversial decision at the time— residents had hoped for the state university instead! Today, the Colorado Territorial Correctional Facility complex is one of the area's largest employers. Visitors can explore this unique history at the Museum of Colorado Prisons, housed in a former women's prison building.
Dinosaur Discoveries
The Canon City area is also rich in paleontological history. The Garden Park Fossil Area, located north of town, was one of the key sites in the famous "Bone Wars" of the 1870s-1890s when paleontologists Othniel Charles Marsh and Edward Drinker Cope competed to discover new dinosaur species. Notable dinosaurs discovered here include the Stegosaurus, Diplodocus, and Allosaurus.
Fun Facts About Canon City
The Name
"Canon" comes from the Spanish word "cañón," meaning canyon or tube. The city is named for the spectacular gorge nearby. (Yes, technically it should have a tilde: Cañon City, though it's rarely written that way today.)
Film History
Canon City was once known as the "Gateway to the Rockies for Films." Dozens of silent-era and early Western films were shot here between 1910-1925, including Tom Mix movies. The dramatic landscapes provided perfect backdrops.
Holy Cross Abbey
The Benedictine Abbey of the Holy Cross was founded here in 1924. The monks established a winery producing award-winning Colorado wines, and the beautiful grounds are a popular destination for tastings and events.
Bighorn Sheep
Colorado's official state animal, the Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, is commonly spotted in the canyons around Canon City. The best viewing is in Bighorn Sheep Canyon during fall and winter months.
Outdoor Recreation
Beyond rafting and the Royal Gorge, Canon City offers endless outdoor opportunities. Hiking and mountain biking trails wind through the surrounding hills, including the popular Tunnel Drive trail. The area is also known for rock climbing, fishing, and wildlife viewing. In winter, the mild climate makes Canon City a great base for exploring nearby ski areas.
Popular Activities
- Royal Gorge Bridge & Park – Walk across America's highest suspension bridge
- Whitewater Rafting – Family floats to thrilling Class IV rapids
- Royal Gorge Route Railroad – Scenic train rides through the canyon
- Zipline Tours – One of America's highest ziplines at the Royal Gorge
- Hiking – Tunnel Drive, Temple Canyon, Ecology Park, and more
- Rock Climbing – Shelf Road and Garden Park offer world-class sport climbing
- Wine Tasting – Holy Cross Abbey Winery produces Colorado wines
- History Tours – Museums, historic downtown, and prison heritage sites
Day Trips From Canon City
Canon City's central location makes it an excellent base for exploring southern Colorado:
- Cripple Creek & Victor (45 min) – Historic mining towns with casinos and museums
- Garden of the Gods (45 min) – Spectacular red rock formations in Colorado Springs
- Pikes Peak (1 hr) – Drive or take the cog railway to 14,115 feet
- Pueblo (40 min) – Historic Riverwalk, aerospace museum, and restaurants
- Great Sand Dunes National Park (2 hr) – North America's tallest sand dunes
About This Guide
Visit Canon City is an independent visitor guide created to help travelers discover the best of Canon City and the Royal Gorge region. We're not affiliated with the City of Canon City or any tourism board—just locals and visitors who love this area and want to share its treasures with you.
Our information is gathered from publicly available sources and personal knowledge. We strive for accuracy but recommend confirming details with businesses and attractions before your visit, especially for hours, prices, and seasonal availability.