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Royal Gorge Park Sunrise
OUR TAKE

Experience one marvel after another at the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, where a wonder of man-made architecture crosses a stunning example of nature’s raw power.

What you can do

Get into the details

Located a breathtaking 956 feet above the crashing Arkansas River (291 meters), the Royal Gorge Bridge is one of the world’s highest suspension bridges. It’s towering structure is a marvel of engineering that connects visitors from one side of the millions-plus-years-old gorge to one of the coolest parks in the Pikes Peak region.

Awe is the closest word we can find to describe what you’ll feel as you take in the staggeringly beautiful views of the gorge and the surrounding region. You’ll definitely want to ensure your phone has extra photo storage (or bring a camera with extra memory) to capture every moment of your trip. 

Fun Things to Do at the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park

The Royal Gorge Park is packed with fun ways to spend a day, like the thrilling Cloudscraper Zip Line or relaxing-but-awesome gondola rides across the canyon. And the pulse-pounding Skycoaster helps you make your acquaintance with the Royal Gorge’s steep drop like no other ride can. For a more in-depth and hands-on way to experience the Gorge, try the Royal Gorge Via Ferrata, aka The Iron Way. It’s a powerful mountaineering experience that takes you along the gorge walls! Make your Via Ferrata reservation to create the most amazing memories in the Rocky Mountains

For younger visitors, Tommy Knocker Playland offers climbing structures for unleashing one’s inner mountain goat and a fabulous carousel for easygoing fun. And don’t miss the water clock by the visitor center, it’s absolutely fascinating.

Dining at the Royal Gorge Bridge

You can bring lunch from home for enjoying at one of the many picnic areas — or you can leave the cooking to the folks at Café 1230, the Bridge View BBQ, or Grill on the Hill. Sometimes you can smell that tasty goodness cooking all the way across the bridge! All three have hearty and light options, so no one will leave unsatisfied. Oh, and there’s also the Cliff Side patio, where you can enjoy sweet snacks like slushies and cotton candy.

Live Entertainment and Exciting Events

The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is also known for its entertainment and special events. They feature educational entertainment with animal encounters, live music and special guest entertainers.

The fun does not just happen in the summer. Every season has its own special options. In the fall, you can put on a costume and go to Boo at the Bridge for spooky, family-friendly, Halloween fun. During the winter, you can actually drive across the bridge during the Bridge of Lights holiday event. In the spring, there’s an annual Easter Sunday service and Earth Day activities, too.

Head out and make a day of it. You won’t be sorry you visited the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park — and you certainly won’t be bored!

Things to know

From $35 / adult
Hours

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Daily

Average time

3-5 hours

Exertion level
Attraction type

FAQs

No personal vehicles will be allowed on the Bridge at any time. Pre-scheduled car clubs may be given an exception. If you have a car club and would like more information, please call 719.276-8320.

The Park is open year-round (weather permitting), including holidays. During peak tourist season, all attractions are open. During off-season, attractions are limited. Attraction times and closing times vary. Please check the website before you purchase tickets. 

The easiest route through the Park starts at the Aerial Gondolas on the north rim at the Visitor Center. Ride the gondolas to the south side, then walk down to the Bridge.
Looking for some high-altitude rides on the Zip Line or Skycoaster? Get here early to skip the wait times and start soaring as soon as possible.

The Park is at an altitude of 6,700 feet (2,042 meters) in an arid region, so keep hydrated and wear sunscreen, even in the winter. Speaking of winter, the Park is 8-10° warmer than Denver and Colorado Springs. And there is always a breeze in the middle of the bridge, all year long.


Colorado weather is unpredictable, and afternoon rainstorms are common. If rain rolls in, temporary ride closures may occur. Refunds will not be given for these closures. 

Yes, the Park is accessible to people with disabilities, but please be careful on the steep trails you may find throughout the Park. Wear sturdy walking shoes if you have difficulty navigating or use a medical walker or cane.

Gondolas and the theater are wheelchair accessible. The South gondola platform does not have a ramp, so guests with wheelchairs will need to ride the gondola round trip.

Rides, such as the Skycoaster and Zip Line, have additional restrictions concerning height, weight, and physical ability.

Location

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