Tunnel Drive Trail

Tunnel Drive Trail follows the route of Canon City's old irrigation pipeline above the Arkansas River and passes through three historic tunnels cut into the granite canyon wall.

Trail Details

The trail runs about 2 miles one way (4 miles round trip). The short stretch from the trailhead is paved and is the steepest part; after that the trail is a wide, mostly level gravel path. The City of Canon City lists the trail as having handicap access, but the surface past the first stretch is gravel, so wheelchair and stroller users should plan for it (all-terrain wheels help). The tunnels are cool and shaded on hot summer days.

What You'll See

Views of the Arkansas River and surrounding canyon walls accompany you throughout the hike. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep on the rocky slopes above, they're frequently spotted in this area. The tunnels were cut through the granite for a redwood-stave irrigation pipeline that also supplied water to Canon City; the city stopped using it in 1974. Below the trail, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad runs along the river.

Practical Information

Parking is at the Tunnel Drive trailhead on the west side of Canon City. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography and cooler temperatures in summer.