Wondering where Cañon City is? While nearby Colorado Springs is likely on your radar when planning your family vacation to Colorado there is a good chance you have not heard of Cañon City. But with the many opportunities for outdoor adventure and unforgettable scenic views, we think that Cañon City Colorado should be on your list!
From exploring the Royal Gorge, enjoying a scenic train ride, going wildlife watching, visiting some dinosaur tracks, and getting out on the water with some white water rafting, Cañon City has lots to offer families. We have compiled a list of our favorite things to do that we think you should add to your plans!
About Cañon City
Cañon City is a historic city in Fremont County, Colorado. It is about an hour outside of Colorado Springs, making it a great option for a day trip. The city sits beside the Arkansas River in southern Colorado.
The city dates back to 1858 during the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush. It originally grew as a supply hub for miners and settlers traveling through the region, and later became known for its railroad connections and agricultural industry.
Today Cañon City is alive and well. The city has a reputation for it’s outdoor activities and visiting Cañon City with kids is the perfect way to get some adventure in on your next family vacation!
Things to Do In Cañon City With Kids
The Royal Gorge Railroad
The Royal Gorge Railroad is one of the most well known attractions in Cañon City Colorado. The ride takes you through the Royal Gorge, a 1,250 ft. high gorge carved out by the Arkansas River. During the two hour train ride you will be delighted with stunning views of the gorge and the Arkansas River while having the option to enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
The train ride offers three seating options: the vista dome, which is the most expensive but comes with the best views, deluxe class, which has table seating and large windows, and coach seating, which is traditional passenger seating with tables. There is also an open-air car, so no matter what seating option you choose you can great views of the gorge!
The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park
The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is another one of the best things to do in Cañon City Colorado. The main attraction at the park is the Royal Gorge Bridge, a suspension bridge that hangs at 1,000 feet over the Royal Gorge. If you aren’t afraid of hikes, you can walk across the bridge and take in stunning 360 views of the area.
The park also contains the Cloudscrapper Zipline, Via Ferrata (rock climbing), and the Royal Rush Skycoaster for the daring! For those looking for a more relaxed experience, take a ride on one of the Royal Gorge gondolas.
Hank’s Hangout offers a play area with a carousel, splash pad, ropes, slides, and towers. Kids can also enjoy panning for gold. Before exploring the area be sure to check out the Plaza Theater for shows on the history of the gorge and the wildlife of the area.
Go For a Hike
Cañon City has a wide range of hiking options for families, from trails exploring Colorado’s rugged landscape to peaceful river walks to trails overlooking the Royal Gorge. Many of the trails are flat and easy, making them great options for families.
Tunnel Drive Trail is one of the best hikes in Cañon City. The trail is a mostly flat 4 mile out and back trail that takes you through 3 historic tunnels. The trail also gives you views of the Arkansas River.
Another good option is the Royal Gorge Rim Trail. This is a 3.5 mile loop trail that begins near the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park. The trail follows along the gorge rim and gives you amazing views of the Royal Gorge and Arkansas River.
The Fremont Peak Trail is a moderate trail 3.2 miles in length. The trail gives you panoramic views of Cañon City, the Royal Gorge, and the Arkansas River Valley. The trail is located in the Fremont Peak Open Space and takes you to the summit of Fremont Peak.
The Arkansas Riverwalk Trail is a flat, paved trail that follows alongside the Arkansas River. The trail is 7 miles one way, but you can choose to turn around earlier if you want. Whether you are looking for a challenging hike or peaceful walk, exploring the area on foot is one of the best ways to see the natural beauty of the area.
Drive the Phantom Canyon Road
Phantom Canyon Road is one of the best scenic drives in Cañon City Colorado. The drive spans 30 miles along an unpaved road between Cañon City and Victor while gaining elevation from 5,500 feet to 9,500 feet. The road follows the original route of the historic Florence & Cripple Creek Railroad built in the 1890’s. The road is a portion of the Gold Belt Scenic & Historic Byway.
Highlights along the drive include narrow canyons, towering cliffs, hand-carved tunnels, historic bridges, and remnants of old mining communities that once thrived during Colorado’s gold rush era. There are plenty of pull over spots to take in the views or go for a short hike.
While most passenger vehicles can travel the road in dry conditions, the narrow gravel route can be bumpy and winding, so be sure to take your time and check conditions before heading out.
Explore Downtown Cañon City Colorado
Exploring the downtown area of Cañon City Colorado is one of the best things to do with kids. The area is very walkable and has an abundance of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. You can find a wide selection of souvenirs, handmade jewelry, sweet treats, and unique art to look at.
If you are a history person, admiring the buildings along the town’s Main Street from the 1800’s will be a highlight of the visit. Cañon City’s downtown area is listed on the National Historic Register for its turn-of-the-century architecture. The colorful and historic buildings paint a picture of the town’s founding and history.
The Museum of Colorado Prisons
For those interested in history, the Museum of Colorado Prisions is a great option when visiting Cañon City Colorado. The museum is located within a former women’s prison. It contains many artifacts and displays about the Colorado state prison system. Visitors can walk through the prison, seeing inmate cells, dining room, kitchen, isolation cells, and the laundry room.
Adults and kids alike will enjoy hearing about the stories of past inmates and some may be fascinated by the ghost stories from the building. Kids may also enjoy dressing in black and white stripped clothing and standing behind fake prison cell bars-a perfect photo op!
Things to Do In Cañon City Colorado: Drive the Skyline Drive
Skyline Drive is a narrow 2.6 mile drive along the ridges of the Hogback Hills overlooking Cañon City. Skyline Drive was constructed by 60 inmates from a local prison, completed in 1905. During the first couple years of the road’s existence it was used only for horses and travel by foot, but shortly after was opened to vehicles and remains so to this day.
The drive, although short, will give you some great views of the natural scenery around the city and views overlooking the city itself. The road is narrow and passes by many inclines and declines. With no guardrails it is important to drive cautiously on the road.
If you are up for a little bit of a hike be sure to check out the Old Skyline Drive Trail. The trail is a 1 mile out and back trail that will give you access to great views and a chance to relax. You will also find many pull off areas along the drive for great views, including one with 107 million year old dinosaur tracks, a must see when driving Skyline Drive.
White Water Rafting
One of the things Cañon City Colorado is known for is the white water rafting opportunities. The Royal Gorge is a popular spot for white water rafting. With the variety of tours available for kids as young as 4, white water rafting is the perfect activity when visiting Cañon City Colorado with kids. Some of the best options include:
Echo Canyon River Expeditions:
Echo Canyon River Expeditions offers 3 different tour options:
- The Bighorn Sheep Canyon option is designed for children ages 6+ and adults, taking guests through Class I-III Rapids in most cases.
- The Royal Gorge option is also designed for older children (recommended ages 13+) and takes guests through Class III – IV Rapids.
- The last option, the Family Float, is more family friendly (ages 4+) taking guests through Class I – III Rapids in the upper Bighorn Sheep Canyon.
Lost Paddle Rafting is a locally family-owned company that offers similar tour options to Echo Canyon River Expeditions. Options include:
- Bighorn Sheep Canyon Rafting: Beginner level through class II-III rapids in Bighorn Sheep Canyon, good for ages 6+. Half and full day tour options are available.
- Royal Gorge Rafting: Advanced rafting through class III-IV rapids through the Royal Gorge. Ages 12+ are permitted, and during times when water levels are higher ages 16+ are permitted. Half and full day trips are available.
- Multiday rafting trips are also available starting at age 8. These tours range from beginner to advanced rafting.
More Options:
- Whitewater Adventure Outfitters
- Arkansas River Tours
- Raft Masters
- River Runners Royal Gorge
- Royal Gorge Rafting and Zipline Tours
Colorado Jeep Tours
Colorado Jeep Tours offers jeep tours of the Royal Gorge or Red Canyon. Half day and full day jeep tours are available, or choose a tour packages that combines a jeep tour with rafting, a railroad ride, and zip lining. Tours range from 3-8 hours long. The adults can take in the scenery and stunning views while the kids will enjoy the bumps of the off-road journey.
The Royal Gorge tour takes you from Cañon City to Fremont Park, ascending 1,500 feet. You will be able to walk across the Royal Gorge Bridge, a 1,260 foot long suspension bridge that sits 1,000 feet above the Royal Gorge. You will also be able to see some dinosaur tracks that are 100+ million years old on the way back to Cañon City.
The Red Canyon tour option takes you to the Garden Park Fossil Area, past unique red rock formations, petroglyphs, and gives you the chance to see dinosaur tracks. There is a short hike during the tour that takes you to Overlook Arch. Whether you choose the Royal Gorge or Red Canyon tour, you will be treated to a unique experience and stunning views in Cañon City.
Things to Do in Cañon City Colorado: Garden Park Fossil Area
The Garden Park Fossil Area, located about 6 miles outside of Cañon City, offers a combination of hiking trails and dinosaur sites. The Garden Park Fossil Area is the site where some of the most famous dinosaur fossils were discovered in the 1800’s, including Allosaurus, Stegosaurus, Diplodocus, and Camarasaurus fossils.
The park contains two main quarries-the Cleveland-Delfs Quarry and the Marsh- Felch Quarry. The area is still an active fossil research area, so access to some sections will be limited. You can find many display and overlook areas that give you information about the sites while enjoying great views of the area. You can also find picnic tables, so be sure to pack a lunch and spend some time relaxing at Garden Park.
Temple Canyon Park
Temple Canyon Park is a public park in Cañon City that lies along Grape Creek. One of the main features of the park is “The Temple,” which is a large natural amphitheater. The park also boasts great views of the Wet Mountains and the Dawson Mining District.
The Temple can be reached via the Redemption Trail, a 3.6 mile out and back trail. The trail is of moderate difficulty and can be done with children, but be aware that there are some rocky and steep areas. There are also three camping sites available within the park, making it a great place in Cañon City to get away from the crowds and enjoy nature.
Fly High With a Royal Gorge Helicopter Tour
Royal Gorge Helitours offers a unique option for viewing the gorge and one that will surely be a memorable experience for the whole family. They offer many different tours, ranging in price from $54 a person to $480 a person for the most extensive tour.
The tours will take you above the Royal Gorge or take you past the gorge as far as Pike’s Peak if you choose. The Helitours are a great option for a unique experience while visiting Cañon City Colorado with kids.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit Cañon City with kids?
Spring through fall is the most popular time to visit. Summer offers warm weather and rafting season, while fall brings beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures. The area also enjoys mild weather compared to many mountain destinations in Colorado.
Are there easy hikes in Cañon City for families?
Yes! Tunnel Drive Trail is one of the most popular easy family hikes in the area. The Arkansas Riverwalk Trail and Temple Canyon Park also offer family-friendly walking and hiking opportunities.
How far is Cañon City from Colorado Springs?
Cañon City is about 45 miles southwest of Colorado Springs, making it an easy day trip or weekend getaway from the city.
Can kids go whitewater rafting in Cañon City?
Yes! Many rafting companies offer family-friendly rafting trips with calmer sections of the Arkansas River that are suitable for younger children. Age requirements vary by rafting company and water conditions, but most have tours for ages 6+.
How many days should families spend in Cañon City?
While one day in Cañon City will allow you to see the main highlights and visit the Royal Gorge, plan on spending 3-5 days if you want to do more hiking and fully explore the area.
Is the Royal Gorge Route Railroad good for kids?
Yes. The train ride is very family friendly and offers incredible canyon views, wildlife sightings, and a fun experience for children who love trains and scenic adventures.
Can you visit Cañon City year-round?
Yes. The area has a mild climate, making it a great destination throughout the year. Summer and fall are especially popular for outdoor activities.
Is Cañon City crowded?
Compared to many Colorado mountain destinations, Cañon City is often less crowded, making it a great option for families looking for a more relaxed vacation atmosphere.
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