The Royal Gorge

The Royal Gorge: America's Highest Suspension Bridge

     Living in Colorado Springs has amazing benefits to explore and venture into our beautiful state of Colorado. With the Rocky Mountains (and Pikes Peak) right in our backyard, our landscape gives way to gorgeous sunrises and sunsets, peaks and valleys, rocky formations and gorges. In fact, one of the most popular gorges with America’s highest suspension bridge is only located a little over an hour away in Cañon City: The Royal Gorge!

     The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park offer many things to do in the area to make this an unforgetting experience. Begin by taking a walk across the tallest suspension bridge in America. Sitting 956 feet above the Arkansas River, there are 1257 wooden planks making up the bridge. Here, you’ll see incredible views of the mountains and valleys that make up the area. As you cross the bridge, you’ll notice quite a few things that everyone can enjoy while visiting the park.

     For the more adventurous folk, you’ll find the Royal Rush SkyCoaster, where you’ll enjoy a 50mph free fall through the Rocky Mountain air, approximately 1,200 feet above the river. This thrilling experience gives you a special view as you are hoisted to the top of the 100-foot tower before your stomach drops over the gorge. If the free fall isn’t quite up your alley, perhaps you will take a ride on the Cloudscraper Zip Line! The highest zip-line in America, you will not want to miss the opportunity to cross this adventure off your bucket list. These thrilling experiences do require a special ticket for each ride and will open as long as the weather permits. The Aerial Gondolas also provide a great experience for those not wanting a heart stopping trip across the gorge. Here, you’ll glide across the gorge as you view the breathtaking Colorado Mountains and Arkansas river 1,200 feet below. The Gondolas are free with your general admission into the park, so be sure not to miss this opportunity during your visit.  

     Not everything here is about the thrills as there is plenty to do for the younger, smaller crowd. The Tommy Knocker Playground is sure to bring lots of fun and laughter as the children climb the obstacle course and run out all of that extra energy! They will also enjoy a splash pad area to cool down in the warm summer months as well as a carousel located next to the play area. 

     While there is a ton to do atop the gorge with the bridge and rides, you also don’t want to miss out on the Royal Gorge Train, that takes you through the Colorado Rockies while providing delicious eats along the way. The trains currently have four departures throughout the day, and tickets are required to enjoy this special experience. You can find tickets HERE. It would be amazing to begin the day with breakfast on the train and end the day zip lining across the Gorge. 

     We truly do feel the Royal Gorge offers a one-of-a-kind experience that is sure to bring memories that last a lifetime. Whether you live in Colorado Springs, or are just passing through for a visit, we HIGHLY recommend you plan a day trip to the Royal Gorge in Cañon City. If you’ve already visited and have some awesome pictures to share, head on over to our Facebook page and share your experience with us! We would love to see them and possibly share them with our readers!