Top Trails to Hike near the Royal Gorge Bridge
Hike These Terrific Trails With Views of the Royal Gorge
Just over an hour’s drive from Colorado Springs sits the Royal Gorge, an expansive gorge nearly 1,000 feet deep and carved by the Arkansas River. Taking in the spectacular vistas of the Royal Gorge is a must-do while in Colorado. Hiking is a great way to see the gorge and the remarkable Royal Gorge Bridge while getting some fresh air and exercise. With over 20 miles of hiking trails, the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is home to some of the top hikes in the region. To help you find one that suits your taste for adventure, here are a few trails with the best views.
Overlook Trail and Loop
With stunning views of the Royal Gorge and the bridge, the easy-to-moderate Overlook Trail offers a 1-mile trek that will get you remarkably close to the edge of the gorge. Be prepared for big winds and big wows as you take in the amazing scenery! The more adventurous among you may want to cut across the Overlook Loop via the Rock Hardy Trail, which involves scrambling down and up an 85-foot valley.
Canyon Rim and FAR Out Trails
If you are game for a longer hike, pick up the Canyon Rim Trail heading toward FAR Out, follow FAR Out for 1 mile, and then take the Canon Vista Trail back for a roughly 3-mile trek. Don’t skip the short detour from FAR Out along the Le View Trail to the overlook; as the name suggests, it’s where you can get the best view of the gorge and bridge. There is no shortage of great spots for a photo op, so bring your camera—just don’t venture too close to the edge!
Summit Trail
Those willing to make the climb along the Summit Trail to Fremont Peak will be rewarded with glorious 360-degree views of central Colorado and the Rocky Mountains. This trail covers roughly 2.6 miles and 300 vertical feet. Starting with the Canon Vista Trail, take the FAR Out Trail southward to reach the Summit Trail, and then follow it up the hill. Standing atop Fremont Peak, at 7,107 feet, you can see for hundreds of miles and take in the beauty of the rugged landscape.
Royal Gorge Bridge and Park
For an easy walk that the whole family can enjoy, head over to the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park. This tourist attraction near Canon City is where you can access the bridge itself as well as paved paths and overlooks along both the north and south rims of the gorge. If you are not afraid of heights, you can even stroll across the Royal Gorge Bridge which, at 956 feet above the Arkansas River, is the highest suspension bridge in the country! All guests can step inside the Visitor Center to learn more about this historical site, see the Water Clock in action, or grab some refreshments while relaxing and enjoying the view.