Strap on a life vest for some whitewater adventure. A half-day Royal Gorge trip is perfect for rafters seeking the most whitewater thrills. For a big adventure, go early in the season. Late May to early July offers Class IV and V rapids that will serve up big waves around every curve. If you want to start out slow for your first trip, Bighorn Sheep Canyon is the ideal introduction to whitewater rafting. This action-packed and scenic section is great for all ages and abilities.

See more on Royal Gorge Rafting and Rafting Companies

You're bound to get butterflies in your stomach riding the world's scariest Skycoaster®. The Royal Rush® is the highest Skycoaster® on Earth. Securely strapped in with up to two of your daredevil companions, the Royal Rush Skycoaster® pulls riders up 100 feet above its base and releases them to free-fall at 50 m.p.h., swinging out above the Arkansas River at a heart-pounding height of 1,200 feet! If you want to tame things down, ridge the Aerial Tram across the Gorge or take the Incline Railway 1,500 feet down to the canyon floor and experience what it must have been like when the railway was built in 1931.

(return to top)

Fremont County is at the center of many mountain biking trails. Trailheads are easily accessible from US Highway 50 and can also be found along the scenic Gold Belt Tour (some of these roads may require four-wheel drive). One of the most popular areas to mountain bike is Red Canyon Park. Pedal through gorgeous sandstone rock and spires without the crowds that can be found in other mountain biking areas. Maps are available at the Cañon City Chamber of Commerce of the Cañon City Recreation & Park District. As with any mountain bike ride, be sure to bring plenty of water, a cellular phone for emergencies and a trail or topographic map if you are unfamiliar with the area.

Maps are available at the Cañon City Chamber of Commerce (719) 275-2331 or the Cañon City Recreation and Park District (719) 275-1578.

See more on Royal Gorge Area Trails

Would you rather explore the trails of the Royal Gorge Region on four legs instead of two wheels? You're in luck because many of the trails in the Royal Gorge Region are equestrian-friendly. Several campgrounds in the area also welcome horses and their owners. Click to see a list of Royal Gorge campgrounds.

A short drive north of Cañon City on County Road 9 will lead you to some of the best, most-challenging rock climbing in Colorado. Head to the popular Shelf Road Climbing Area where you'll find hundreds of bolted routes. Spring and autumn are the best seasons to climb, but even in the heat of summer, there are routes that offer shade. A sport climber's paradise, Shelf Road is a great location off the beaten path, but close enough to civilization to enjoy a great meal and a cold drink at the end of the day. See more on Rock and Row Rock Climbing Trips

A full day of adventure is bound to leave you with the desire for a little rest and relaxation. One of the most natural, therapeutic treatments to indulge in is a soak in a natural hot spring. Many facilities dot Colorado, and there are a few within driving distance of Cañon City.

See a list of Colorado Hot Springs

Planning a Colorado Vacation?

Check out these other Vacation Idea pages!