Plan Your Royal Gorge Adventure
Everything you need to know before visiting Canon City: directions, weather, altitude tips, and local insider advice
Getting to Canon City
By Car
Canon City is located on US Highway 50, making it easy to reach from Colorado's major cities.
From Denver
115 miles (about 2 hours). Take I-25 South to Colorado Springs, then Highway 115 South to US-50 West.
From Colorado Springs
45 miles (about 45 minutes). Take Highway 115 South directly to Canon City.
From Pueblo
38 miles (about 40 minutes). Take US-50 West directly into Canon City.
From Denver International Airport (DEN)
145 miles (about 2.5 hours). Head south on I-25, exit at Colorado Springs, then follow Highway 115 South.
Other Transportation
Nearest Airports
- Colorado Springs (COS) - 45 miles, best option for regional flights
- Denver International (DEN) - 145 miles, most flight options
- Pueblo Memorial (PUB) - 38 miles, limited service
Rental Cars
A rental car is strongly recommended. Canon City's attractions are spread out and public transportation is limited. Major rental agencies are available at both Denver and Colorado Springs airports.
No Public Transit
Canon City does not have public bus service or rideshare services like Uber/Lyft. Plan to drive or arrange private transportation.
Weather & Best Times to Visit
300+ Days of Sunshine
Canon City enjoys a mild high-desert climate year-round
Spring
March - May
Highs: 55-75°F
Lows: 30-45°F
Wildflowers bloom, rafting season begins in May. Can be windy. April/May is Blossom Festival time!
Summer
June - August (Peak Season)
Highs: 85-95°F
Lows: 55-65°F
Prime rafting season! Hot days, warm nights. Afternoon thunderstorms common. Book activities in advance.
Fall
September - November
Highs: 55-80°F
Lows: 30-50°F
Beautiful foliage, fewer crowds. September is ideal—warm days, cool nights, still great for rafting.
Winter
December - February
Highs: 40-55°F
Lows: 15-30°F
Mild compared to mountains. Snow melts quickly. Royal Gorge Bridge open year-round. Santa Express in December!
Altitude Information
Canon City Elevation
Canon City sits at a moderate elevation—high enough to notice but usually not problematic for most visitors.
Comparison:
- Denver: 5,280 ft (Mile High City)
- Colorado Springs: 6,035 ft
- Royal Gorge Bridge: 6,700 ft
- Pikes Peak: 14,115 ft
Tips for Altitude Adjustment
- 1.Stay hydrated – Drink more water than usual. The dry air dehydrates you faster.
- 2.Limit alcohol – It hits harder at altitude, especially the first day or two.
- 3.Take it easy – Don't overexert on your first day. Ease into strenuous activities.
- 4.Use sunscreen – UV rays are stronger at altitude. Apply generously and often.
- 5.Watch for symptoms – Mild headache and fatigue are common. Rest and hydrate.
Parking Guide
Downtown Canon City
Free street parking throughout downtown. 2-hour limits on Main Street during business hours. Additional free lots behind shops.
Royal Gorge Bridge & Park
Included with admission. Large paved parking lots. Can fill up on summer weekends—arrive before 10am for best spots.
Rafting Outfitters
Free at outfitter locations. They provide transportation to put-in points. No need to worry about shuttling your car!
Trailhead Parking Tips
Most trailheads have small gravel lots. Popular spots like Tunnel Drive can fill up on weekends. Arrive early (before 9am) or go on weekdays. Never leave valuables visible in your car.
What to Pack
Essential Items
- ✓Sunscreen SPF 30+ – UV is intense at altitude
- ✓Sunglasses – Essential, preferably polarized
- ✓Reusable water bottle – Stay hydrated!
- ✓Hat with brim – Sun protection is crucial
- ✓Lip balm with SPF – Dry air chaps lips fast
- ✓Layers – Temperatures swing 30°+ between morning and afternoon
For Outdoor Activities
- ✓Comfortable hiking shoes – Trails are rocky
- ✓Swimsuit – For rafting (wear under clothes)
- ✓Water shoes or sandals with straps – For the river
- ✓Quick-dry clothing – You will get wet rafting!
- ✓Light rain jacket – Afternoon storms roll in fast
- ✓Daypack – For water, snacks, layers on hikes
Don't Forget!
Camera or phone with plenty of storage—you'll want to capture the views! A portable phone charger is handy for long adventure days.
Local Insider Tips
Beat the Crowds
- • Visit Royal Gorge Bridge on weekday mornings
- • Book rafting trips for early morning departures
- • September is the sweet spot—warm weather, fewer tourists
- • Start hikes before 8am in summer to avoid heat
Save Money
- • Buy Royal Gorge Bridge tickets online for discounts
- • Weekday rafting trips are often cheaper
- • Pack a cooler—picnic spots are everywhere
- • Many trails and overlooks are completely free
Dining Tips
- • Eat lunch at popular spots—dinner lines are longer
- • White Water Bar & Grill is THE spot after rafting
- • Make reservations at Rooftop Social on weekends
- • Canon City Mugs is the go-to breakfast spot
Stay Safe
- • Check weather before hiking—storms develop quickly
- • Tell someone your hiking plans
- • Carry more water than you think you need
- • Watch for rattlesnakes on trails (they avoid you)
Ready to Plan Your Adventure?
Browse our curated itineraries for ready-made trip plans, or explore things to do and build your own perfect Canon City experience.