Royal Gorge Bridge Park – A Colorado Must See

The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is one of Colorado’s iconic and must-see attractions, an awe-inspiring spectacle of man and nature meeting halfway. Known as America’s Bridge, located in the heart of the Royal Gorge Region and adjacent to Cañon City. Check out the Visitor Center, Waterclock, Plaza Theater & Historical Expo, Royal Rush Skycoaster, Zip Line, Gondola, and Children’s Playland.

Royal Gorge Bridge Park, Via Ferrata

Not only can visitors enjoy the breathtaking scenery from above the gorge, but they can now climb the steep walls via the new Royal Gorge Via Ferrata. This attraction is a protected and safe climbing system on the sheer vertical walls of the Royal Gorge, using trained guides, climbing lanyards with carabiners, steel cables, and iron rungs installed into the rock surfaces. Routes 400-600 feet into the gorge are tailor-made for the beginner up to the advanced. This is a perfect family outing for an unforgettable experience. The Royal Gorge Via Ferrata is suitable for ages 12 and up. (Extra pay feature, reservations required.)

Royal Gorge Bridge Aerial Gondola

Other world-class attractions include the Aerial Gondola, which traverses 2,400 feet across the gorge and reaches a maximum suspension of 1,200 feet above the Arkansas River. This is a fun activity for the whole gang. Be wowed together when making this spectacular crossing.

The Royal Gorge Cloudscraper – Zipline

For the daring, the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park Cloudscraper, by ZipRider, flies guests a thousand feet over the river, and patrons can experience the World’s Scariest Skycoaster sitting on the very edge of the gorge. Both are extra pay features and are open from mid-March to the end of December (weather permitting.)

Royal Rush Skycoaster

Located on the south rim of the gorge is the Skycoaster. Riders are hoisted up to the top of a 100-foot tower and, from that starting point, swung out 1,200 feet over the edge of the Royal Gorge.

The Tommy Knocker Playland

This is a kid’s dream come true playground. Have fun with ropes, slides, nets, tunnels, 20-foot towers, and a splash pad. Check out panning for gold at Ole Zeb’s Sluice Box, and take a ride on the vintage-style Daisy’s Carousel.

The Plaza Theater

The park has a storied history beginning with the spectacular undertaking of building the Royal Gorge Bridge in 1929 and is the highest suspension bridge in America to date. The bridge survived a wildfire in 2013 and sustained minimal damage, while 90% of the park was destroyed. The rebuild was a spectacular undertaking. Visit the Plaza Theater and Historical Expo for the whole story!

The Visitors Center

When you arrive at the visitor’s center, you will certainly be taken in by all the breathtaking views. Just around back, check out the water clock. It’s the only one of its kind in Colorado.

The Royal Gorge Bridge Park, including the Bridge and Visitor Center, is open 365 days a year. The Visitor Center with its mammoth deck overlooking the gorge, is the perfect place to shop, dine, relax, and enjoy the surroundings.