Exercise and Climb at the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park

Looking for a fun way to get your cardio workout while enjoying the outdoors of Colorado? The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is not just a walk in the park. With mountainous terrain, not only do you witness beautiful views of the gorge and surrounding landscapes but you’ll get a workout by walking around the park. From the Visitor Center entrance, across the gorge via our Aerial Gondola, and around to cross the Royal Gorge Bridge, the walk is almost a mile long with a 300-foot elevation gain. Not only will the views of the Arkansas River 956 feet below get your heart beating, this loop in our park will give you a great day of exercise in Colorado’s fresh air. 

Our most hands-on adventure in the Royal Gorge is the Via Ferrata course. This guided climbing experience along the Royal Gorge takes you on a journey through colossal granite walls using a cutting-edge cable system that puts safety first. Feel the thrill as you clip on and off with ease using sturdy cables and steel rungs while conquering both horizontal and vertical rock climbing.

As you navigate the course, you’ll encounter a mini suspension bridge, a brief hike into the gorge, the thunderous Arkansas River below, and the iconic Royal Gorge Bridge soaring above. These unique scenic vistas are exclusive to Southern Colorado, offering a visual feast like no other. Perfect for both novice climbers and seasoned rock enthusiasts, the Royal Gorge Via Ferrata blends hiking and vertical climbing for an adventure that’s as thrilling as it is awe-inspiring.

As you descend Skyline Drive, be sure to spot the parking area for one of Cañon City’s newest hiking and mountain biking trail systems. Offering a variety of trails, from wide dirt paths to technical steep trails, these trails cater to all adventure enthusiasts. Take the Graneros trail up to meet Old Skyline Drive, then choose between cruising down the paved road or navigating the dirt trails back to the parking area. For those new to cycling, the “Greenhorn” double-track is a beginner-friendly path that runs from north to south. Be sure to check out more hiking and biking trails near the entrance to the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park.

One-Stop Adventure Destination in Southern Colorado

The Arkansas Valley stands as a haven for adventure enthusiasts, offering a myriad of exhilarating activities that promise unforgettable moments. The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, with its iconic suspension bridge and heart-stopping attractions, serves as the epicenter of adrenaline-pumping experiences. From the Cloudscraper Zip Line and Royal Rush Skycoaster to the Royal Gorge Via Ferrata, visitors are treated to unparalleled views and a rush of excitement that lingers long after the adventure concludes.

The park isn’t merely a thrilling playground; it doubles as a scenic fitness arena. The mile-long loop, featuring a 300-foot elevation gain, ensures that visitors not only savor breathtaking views but also engage in a fulfilling cardio workout amidst Colorado’s natural beauty.

Whether you’re soaring above the Royal Gorge, navigating the Arkansas River’s rapids, or exploring prehistoric landscapes, the Arkansas Valley proves itself as a treasure trove of outdoor excitement. From the heights of the Royal Gorge Bridge to the depths of the river, every adventure in this Southern Colorado haven leaves an indelible mark, inviting you to return for more thrills, stunning vistas, and cherished memories.