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Give your soul some elbow room (1:35)
From breathtaking views to breath-catching thrills, Royal Gorge Bridge and Park has something awesome for the whole family.
Royal Gorge Bridge and Park
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
- Explore the bridge
- Ride the gondola
Get into the details
956 feet above the crashing Arkansas River, the Royal Gorge Bridge — one of the world’s highest suspension bridges — connects visitors from one side of the millions-plus-years-old gorge to the other, where even more adventure awaits.
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, if you’re old-school) to capture every moment of your trip. But the views aren’t the only reason to visit.
The Royal Gorge Park is packed with fun ways to spend a day, like the thrillingCloudscraper Zip Lineor chill-but-awesome gondola rides across the canyon. And the pulse-poundingSkycoaster helps you make your acquaintance with the Royal Gorge’s steep drop like no other ride. For a more in-depth and hands-on way to experience the Gorge, try the Royal Gorge Via Ferrata, aka The Iron Way, a mountaineering experience on the gorge walls! Make your Via Ferrata reservation to create the most amazing memories!
For the younger set, Tommy Knocker Playland offers climbing structures for unleashing one’s inner mountain goat and a fabulous carousel to spin all your cares away. And don’t miss the water clock by the visitor center, It’s absolutely fascinating!
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 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.
The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is also known for its summerentertainment. They feature educational entertainment like Nature’s Educators (who doesn’t want to learn about birds of prey?), Deja Bluz who play blues and classic rock and roll on holiday weekends. Put on a costume and get to Boo at the Bridge for spooky family-friendly fun near Halloween. For those who wish they could drive across the bridge, the Park’s newest offering, Bridge of Lights, is a holiday drive-through event you need to experience.
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!
Via Ferrata, aka The Iron Way, a mountaineering experience on the gorge walls is open! Make your reservation to create the most amazing memories!
Things to know
- No personal vehicles will be allowed on the Bridge except during special events
- There are some uneven areas in the Park, so be sure to wear sturdy walking shoes.
From $34 / adult
Hours
10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Daily
Average time
3-5 hours
Exertion level
Attraction type
- Family, Thrilling, Laid Back, Outdoors, Historic
FAQs
Can I drive across the bridge?
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 call719.276-8320.
When is the best time to visit?
The Park is open year-round (weather permitting), even on holidays. Rides and attractions open 10AM. Closing times vary depending on season. During peak tourist season, all attractions are open. During off-season, attractions are limited.
What is the best way to see the park?
The easiest route through the Park starts at the Aerial Gondolas on the north rim – at the Visitor Center. Ride those 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.
There are some uneven areas in the Park, so be sure to wear sturdy walking shoes.
What is the altitude and climate?
The Park is at an altitude of 6,700 feet and in an arid region, so keep hydrated and slather on some sunscreen, even in 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, year-round.
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.
Is the park handicap accessible?
Yes, the Park is handicap accessible, but please be careful on the steep trails you may find throughout the Park.
Gondolas and the Theater are wheelchair accessible. The South gondola platform does not have a handicap 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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