
Hiking, rafting, climbing, and more
sightseeing3-5 hoursExperience one of the world's highest suspension bridges spanning the dramatic 1,250-foot deep Royal Gorge. Enjoy gondola rides, a zip line, and stunning canyon views.
outdoors1-2 hoursHike or bike this scenic paved trail that follows an old railroad grade through three tunnels with stunning views of the Arkansas River canyon.
outdoors2-4 hoursA scenic section of the Arkansas River known for Class II-III rapids and frequent sightings of the bighorn sheep that give the canyon its name.
outdoorsHalf day to full dayExperience world-class whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River with options ranging from gentle family floats to adrenaline-pumping Class IV rapids through the Royal Gorge.
outdoorsHalf day to full dayOne of the area's premier rafting outfitters offering guided trips through Bighorn Sheep Canyon and the Royal Gorge on the Arkansas River.
outdoors2-4 hoursA scenic canyon park offering hiking trails, rock climbing, and picnic areas just south of Canon City.
outdoors1-3 hoursExplore stunning red rock formations, hiking trails, and picnic areas in this scenic park north of Canon City.
history1-2 hoursVisit one of the world's most significant dinosaur fossil sites where many important Jurassic-era discoveries have been made.
outdoors30 minutes - 2 hoursA scenic walking and biking path along the Arkansas River in downtown Canon City, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
outdoors2-3 hoursSoar over the Arkansas River valley on exciting zipline tours offering stunning views of the Royal Gorge region.
outdoorsHalf day to full dayEnjoy excellent trout fishing on the Arkansas River, known for its Gold Medal waters and abundant brown and rainbow trout.
outdoorsHalf day to full dayExplore one of Colorado's premier sport climbing destinations with hundreds of routes in spectacular limestone cliffs.
outdoors2-4 hoursRide challenging singletrack trails through unique high-desert terrain at this popular mountain biking area.
sightseeing15-45 minutesSee the Royal Gorge from the air with scenic helicopter tours offering breathtaking aerial views of the canyon.
outdoors2-4 hoursExplore backcountry roads and scenic viewpoints on guided Jeep tours through the Royal Gorge region.
outdoors1-3 hoursSpot Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep in their natural habitat along the canyon walls of the Arkansas River.
outdoors1-3 hoursExperience incredible dark skies and stargazing opportunities in the Royal Gorge area, away from city lights.
sightseeingFull dayDrive this designated scenic and historic byway connecting Canon City to Cripple Creek and Victor through stunning mountain scenery.
sightseeing2-3 hoursA scenic backcountry drive following a historic narrow-gauge railroad route through Phantom Canyon.
outdoors1-2 hoursPlay a round of disc golf on this scenic course with challenging terrain and beautiful views.
outdoors2-6 hoursPaddle the Arkansas River in your own kayak or with a guided tour, from calm sections to exciting whitewater.
outdoors2-3 hoursA rewarding 3-mile hike to the 7,097-foot summit offering panoramic views of Canon City, the Arkansas River Valley, and the surrounding mountains.
outdoors1-4 hoursA network of trails weaving through juniper-covered ridges and valleys, popular with mountain bikers and hikers seeking varied terrain.
outdoors1 hourAn easy 1.5-mile loop trail with stunning overlook views into the Royal Gorge canyon, perfect for families and casual hikers.
outdoorsHalf day to full dayPremier granite climbing destination with over 80 routes on excellent rock, offering challenges for climbers of all skill levels.
sightseeing2-4 hoursExplore this authentic gold mining ghost town with over 500 historic mines, stunning mountain scenery, and the famous Victor Gold Mine viewpoint.
outdoorsHalf day to full dayOne of Colorado's most iconic natural wonders, featuring dramatic red rock formations against Pikes Peak, just 40 miles from Canon City.
outdoors4-6 hoursDrive or take the famous Cog Railway to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak, 'America's Mountain,' for panoramic views spanning 100+ miles.
Popular spots to check out during your visit
tour operatorColorado's premier whitewater outfitter offering everything from gentle family floats to heart-pounding Class V rapids through the legendary Royal Gorge.
tour operatorSoar over the Arkansas River valley on one of Colorado's most spectacular zipline courses, featuring multiple lines and breathtaking canyon views.
tour operatorThe Royal Gorge region's premier multi-adventure hub — offering whitewater rafting, zipline tours, and vacation rentals all in one place at the gateway to the Royal Gorge.