Royal Gorge Blog
Tips, planning advice, and local insights for making the most of your Royal Gorge region visit.
Featured Articles
Our most popular and helpful guides
seasonalFall in the Royal Gorge: Your Complete Visitor Guide (September-November)
Fall offers the Royal Gorge's best-kept secret: stunning colors, comfortable temperatures, smaller crowds, and lower prices. Here's your guide to visiting in autumn.
seasonalSummer in the Royal Gorge: Your Complete Visitor Guide (June-August)
Summer is peak season at the Royal Gorge with warm weather, all attractions open, and prime conditions for every activity. Here's how to make the most of your visit.
All Articles
19 articles to help plan your visit
seasonalSpring in the Royal Gorge: Your Complete Visitor Guide (March-May)
Spring brings snowmelt, wildflowers, and peak whitewater conditions to the Royal Gorge region. Here's what to expect and how to plan your visit.
January 17, 2025
planningFirst Time in the Royal Gorge Region? Start Here
Everything first-time visitors need to know about planning a trip to Canon City and the Royal Gorge—what to expect, when to visit, and how to make the most of your time.
January 16, 2025
planningDay Trips from Canon City: Explore Beyond the Royal Gorge
Use Canon City as your Colorado basecamp to explore Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, ghost towns, hot springs, and the stunning Wet Mountain Valley.
January 15, 2025
shoppingMain Street Canon City: A Shopping and Dining Walking Tour
Colorado's longest historic Main Street offers antiques, artisan goods, local restaurants, and authentic small-town character.
January 14, 2025
raftingThe Complete Guide to Rafting the Arkansas River
Everything you need to know before your first (or tenth) whitewater adventure on Colorado's most popular rafting river.
January 13, 2025
hikingThe Best Hikes in the Royal Gorge Region: A Local's Guide
From easy riverside walks to challenging summit scrambles, these trails showcase the diverse terrain surrounding Canon City.
January 12, 2025
lodgingWhere to Stay Near Royal Gorge: Hotels, Cabins, and Camping
From luxury lodges to riverside campsites, here's how to choose accommodations that match your adventure style and budget.
January 11, 2025
food-drinkLocal Eats After a Big Day Outside
You've rafted, hiked, or explored all day. Now you're hungry. Here are the spots that feed tired adventurers best.
January 10, 2025
photographyPhotographer's Short List: Viewpoints and Times of Day
A condensed guide for photographers visiting the Royal Gorge region—where to shoot and when the light works best.
January 9, 2025
safetySafety Basics for River Activities
The Arkansas River demands respect. Here's what you should know before getting on the water.
January 8, 2025
seasonalWinter in the Gorge: What's Open, What's Quieter
Off-season visits offer different rewards. Here's what to expect if you visit the Royal Gorge region in winter months.
January 7, 2025
planningRainy Day Alternatives Near Canon City
Summer storms are common but usually brief. Here's how to stay entertained if weather puts outdoor plans on hold.
January 6, 2025
planningFamily-Friendly Royal Gorge Weekend Without Overdoing It
Kids have different stamina levels than adults. Here's how to plan a Royal Gorge family trip that keeps everyone happy.
January 5, 2025
planningWeekend Plan: Adventure Day + Downtown Dinner
How to structure a satisfying weekend that combines outdoor adventure with the local dining and social scene.
January 4, 2025
planningWhat to Pack for a Day in the Gorge (Wind, Sun, Water)
The Royal Gorge environment has quirks that catch unprepared visitors off guard. Here's a practical packing list for different activities.
January 3, 2025
sightseeingA First-Timer's Guide to Canyon Views and Scenic Pull-offs
New to the Royal Gorge region? Here are the viewpoints and scenic stops you shouldn't miss, plus tips for making the most of each one.
January 2, 2025
raftingRoyal Gorge Rafting Seasons: What Changes Month to Month
Understanding how the Arkansas River changes through the year can help you choose the right time for your rafting adventure. Here's what to expect each season.
January 1, 2025