Just 53 minutes from Colorado Springs, the Royal Gorge area packs world-class rafting, America's highest bridge, helicopter tours, and incredible dining into one epic day.
Living in or visiting Colorado Springs? The Royal Gorge area is just 53 minutes southwest: close enough for a day trip but packed with enough adventure to fill a week. Here's how to make the most of a single day.
Getting There
From Colorado Springs, take Highway 115 south (Vietnam Veterans Memorial Highway) to Cañon City. The drive is scenic and straightforward: about 53 minutes with no major traffic concerns. You'll pass through open ranch country with views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.
Morning: Hit the Rapids
Start early and you can fit in a half-day rafting trip before lunch. Two options:
Bighorn Sheep Canyon (Class II-III): Perfect for families with kids ages 6+. About 3 hours on the water through a stunning red-rock canyon. Watch for actual bighorn sheep on the cliffs above.
Royal Gorge Rapids (Class III-V): For experienced paddlers and thrill-seekers ages 14+. The 10-mile run through the gorge delivers 15 rapids in rapid succession between 1,250-foot granite walls. One of the best whitewater runs in North America.
Midday: Fuel Up
After rafting, Whitewater Bar & Grill is the perfect lunch spot. It's right at the rafting base. Known for slow-smoked BBQ, Colorado beef burgers, and cold craft beers. Kids can burn off energy on the outdoor volleyball court and games while you relax on the open-air patio.
Afternoon Options
Pick one or two depending on your energy:
Royal Gorge Bridge & Park: Walk across America's highest suspension bridge: 956 feet above the river. The aerial gondola, Skycoaster, and Via Ferrata climbing route add even more thrills. Allow 2-3 hours.
Helicopter Tour: See the gorge from above on a 12-30 minute helicopter flight. Tours start at $40/person and depart right next to the rafting base. A completely unique perspective on the canyon.
Zipline Tour: Soar through the Colorado sky on multiple lines with canyon views. Great for the whole family.
Evening: Dinner with a View
Before heading back to the Springs, grab dinner at Rooftop Social in downtown Cañon City. Craft cocktails, Italian-inspired small plates, and a rooftop patio with mountain views make it the perfect end to an adventure day. Or stay casual at Whitewater for one more round of BBQ by the fire pit.
Make It an Overnighter
If one day isn't enough (and trust us, it won't be), our cabins, yurts, and Airstreams let you extend the adventure. Wake up riverside, grab coffee on your deck, and hit a second day of activities before heading home. See our Weekend Getaway itinerary for a full 2-day plan.
What to Bring
- Swimsuit and water shoes for rafting
- Change of dry clothes
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Camera (especially for the bridge and helicopter)
- Light jacket: canyon temps can be cooler than the Springs
- Appetite: the dining here is seriously good