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Cañon City

Cañon City is an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

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A valley of trees under the Royal Gorge Bridge in Cañon City. In the background is a landscape of faded blue mountains against the skyline.
The Royal Gorge Bridge
Royal Gorge Region
A group of happy friends walks the sidewalks of downtown Cañon City on a sunny day.
Shopping in downtown Cañon City
Royal Gorge Region
A wooden sign in the foreground labeling a trailhead that says "Hogbacks Open Space Recreation Area." In the background is a cloudy sky above a hiking trail path.
Hogbacks Open Space trailhead
Nick Landry, courtesy of Royal Gorge Region
A strip of storefronts in downtown Cañon City at night. Red lights from cars in motion make a few steady streaks above the road.
Downtown Cañon City at night
Royal Gorge Region
Wine bottles sit on a shelf at the Winery at Holy Cross Abbey behind a slightly blurry object. Behind the bottles are windows letting in natural light.
Winery at Holy Cross Abbey
Royal Gorge Region
The red Royal Gorge train runs along on the railroad at the bottom of a wide valley. In the background is the Royal Gorge bridge against a deep blue sky.
Royal Gorge Route Railroad
Nick Landry, courtesy of Royal Gorge Region
A tall metal sign with a replica of the Royal Gorge that says "Welcome to Cañon City." In the background is a deep purple and yellow sunset with minimal clouds.
Welcome to Cañon City sign
Nick Landry, courtesy of Royal Gorge Region
In the foreground are scattered green pine trees and shrubbery amongst a rocky cliffside. In the background is the other side of a wide, hilly valley covered in greenery. Along the horizon are the outlines of distant mountains. All of it is lit golden by the setting sun.
Sunset at the Royal Gorge
Royal Gorge Region
A group of happy friends walks across the street amongst the shops and the Skyline Theatre in downtown Cañon City.
Downtown Cañon City
Royal Gorge Region

Surrounded by breathtaking natural attractions and year-round outdoor activities, Cañon City is an outdoor enthusiast's dream. Climbers can take their pick from 80 routes on incredible granite walls at Tanner Dome Crags, 11 miles south of the city. Hiking trails wind through canyons and mountain passes, offering spectacular views of the surrounding area. 

Just north of Cañon City, hikers can explore Red Canyon Park, 600 acres of red-rock formations and vertical spires. Mountain bikers should check out the extensive trail systems in the area, like Hogbacks Open Space, where trails weave through junipers and pinyon pines and vary from beginner to advanced. 

The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park boasts one of the highest suspension bridges in the United States, which offers stunning views from more than 1,000 feet above the Arkansas River along with high-adrenaline thrills for the whole family. 

The Royal Gorge Route Railroad takes passengers on a 24-mile breathtaking journey through the stunning gorge for which it’s named. Dine on board and even participate in the Murder Mystery Train, where you get to solve a crime. In winter months, don’t miss the Santa Express and Holiday Train. 

West of Cañon City, discover the wonders of the Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience, where real dinosaur fossils are on display. Rich in history, this attraction is fascinating to kids and adults alike. Find multiple options to get your heart pumping on a zipline ride through the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. With several add-on options like the zip and sip (zipline and drinks) or scenic guided hikes and aerial courses, this is an experience to remember in the Royal Gorge Region.

With its close proximity to Colorado Springs and Denver, Cañon City's location makes it the perfect day trip. Visit the walkable, historical downtown for shopping, restaurants, and galleries. Check out the latest exhibit at the Fremont Center for the Arts and explore the local arts and history. 

For a ride with a side of adventure, tour Skyline Drive, a paved route that takes you to the top of a ridge overlooking Cañon City. Be prepared for the hundred-foot drops on either side of the road, making this drive a hair-raising thrill. End the day with a wine tasting at the Winery at Holy Cross Abbey, where you'll find award-winning Colorado wine.

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