Landmarks in Cañon City

Tours Day Trips & Excursions in Cañon City - Things to do in Cañon City

Discover the best experiences and adventures in Cañon City. Explore our curated selection of top-rated tours, activities, and excursions that showcase the beauty and culture of this destination.

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29 Available Tour Excursions in Cañon City

Free Cancellation
(114 reviews)

Exciting class 4+ whitewater rafting trip. Spectacular Colorado scenery including 1100ft deep gorge and rafting under the world's highest suspension bridge. This is a great trip for adrenaline seeking enthusiasts. The Royal Gorge is one of the premier river trips offered anywhere.

Price: $133.20

Duration: 4 hours

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(42 reviews)

The Royal Gorge is one of the most thrilling and exciting whitewater rafting trips on the Arkansas River. Enjoy the beauty and thrill of God’s creation as you experience 1,000 foot high canyon walls, confront exciting Class IV-V rapids, and see the famous Royal Gorge Bridge. The Royal Gorge is a serious section of river facing Class III-V Rapids, and a half-day trip is not a suitable introduction for beginners. Previous class III or higher paddling experience and strong swimming ability are recommended for all guests. For the safety of our guests and guides, we cannot take guests who are over 250lbs or individuals with a history of heart or serious medical problems. Journey Quest is a non-profit Christ-centered rafting ministry, and these trip are uplifting, family-friendly adventures. You’ll love the scenery, and the intentional ministry led by our guides on this rafting adventure.

Price: $119.00

Duration: 3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(33 reviews)

Explore Colorado's Bighorn Sheep Canyon with this full-day river experience. Spend six hours rafting along the Arkansas River, an ideal excursion for first-time rafters and families with kids. Bighorn Sheep Canyon provides beautiful vistas set in a diverse desert ecology, with a variety of Class II and II whitewater rapids. Prepare to have fun and get soaked. A fresh, gourmet deli-style lunch is included, and there will be plenty of opportunities to stop and swim along the way.

Price: $184.00

Duration: 8 hours

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Free Cancellation
(28 reviews)

Exciting class 4-5 whitewater rafting trip.  Spectacular Colorado scenery including 1100ft deep gorge and rafting under the world's highest suspension bridge.  This is a great trip for adrenaline seeking enthusiasts.  The Royal Gorge is one of the premier river trips offered anywhere.

Price: $199.80

Duration: 6 hours

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(24 reviews)

The Royal Gorge is one of the most thrilling and exciting whitewater rafting trips on the Arkansas River. Enjoy the beauty and thrill of God’s creation as you experience 1,000 foot high canyon walls, confront exciting Class III-V rapids, and see the famous Royal Gorge Bridge. Full-day trips start with Bighorn Canyon (class III-IV), break for a delicious riverside lunch, then drop into the Royal Gorge (class IV-V). Journey Quest is a non-profit Christ-centered rafting ministry, and these trip are uplifting, family-friendly adventures. The Royal Gorge is a serious section of river. Previous class III or higher paddling experience and strong swimming ability are recommended for all guests. For the safety of our guests and guides, we cannot take guests who are over 250lbs or individuals with a history of heart or serious medical problems. For more information about, please contact Journey Quest directly at 719.276.2227

Price: $189.00

Duration: 6 hours

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(14 reviews)

The Full-Day Bighorn Sheep Canyon trip is a perfect way to have fun with family and friends. With a full-day on the river, there’s plenty of time to take a plunge into the Arkansas River, play games, view wildlife, and enjoy everything else Bighorn Sheep Canyon has to offer. Join us on your next full day of Colorado Rafting fun! Journey Quest is a non-profit Christ-centered rafting ministry, and these trip are uplifting, family-friendly adventures. You’ll love the scenery, the experience, and the intentional ministry led by our guides on this Colorado whitewater rafting adventure. For more information about this or any of our other activities, please contact Journey Quest directly.

Price: $169.00

Duration: 6 hours

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(11 reviews)

This scenic 6-hour 95 mile round trip excursion will start at an elevation of 5,300 feet and peak midway through the trip at over 11,000 feet in the historic gold mining mountain towns of Victor and Cripple Creek. The Gold Belt Tour is more than just a great way to get away from the city and experience 360 degrees of heart pounding views. This interpretative tour takes you through old railroad tunnels on the way to the fourth largest gold mine in the world near historic Victor, CO. After a filling lunch in a unique local bakery we drop down in elevation via the old stagecoach road to see Indian petroglyphs and dinosaur quarries dating back to the 1870s. Lunch is included as part of this tour.

Price: $329.00

Duration: 6 hours

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(9 reviews)

A full-day tour that literally puts you on the edge of Colorado's most picturesque attractions. You'll travel over the Royal Gorge as you cross over America's highest suspension bridge that sits nearly 1000 feet above the Arkansas River. This tour provides exclusive access through the south entrance of the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park to the top of Fremont Peak, which will allow you to see and experience the true beauty that Colorado has to offer. This tour has ample photo opportunities and breaks, as well as provided lunch, so all you have to do is sit back and soak in the majesty of nature.

Price: $399.00

Duration: 7 hours

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Free Cancellation
(7 reviews)

Family-friendly adventure is just one hour from Colorado Springs. Raft the Arkansas River through Bighorn Sheep Canyon for splashy rapids, epic scenery, and Colorado wildlife.

Price: $115.00

Duration: 4 hours

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Free Cancellation
(2 reviews)

Raft under the highest suspension bridge in North America and navigate some of the most iconic whitewater in the World.

Price: $127.00

Duration: 4 hours

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Free Cancellation
(2 reviews)

Climb 5,000 feet above Canon City into the high gold mining districts to witness the yearly color change of the aspens on this full-day tour. The Colorado leaf color change varies year to year but typically starts in September and continues into October. With warmer weather than the rest of Colorado, crystal blue skies over the gold and yellow leaves make for the perfect photo opportunity. Don't forget your camera!

Price: $329.00

Duration: 6 hours

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Free Cancellation
(1 reviews)

Unplug into nature with this fun activity for the family. Paddle together through class III rapids with the help of guide instruction. Keep an eye out for Bighorn Sheep and other wildlife.

Price: $205.00

Duration: 7 hours

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Free Cancellation
(1 reviews)

Raft under the highest suspension bridge in North America and navigate some of the most iconic whitewater in the World.

Price: $225.00

Duration: 5 hours

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Free Cancellation
(328 reviews)

Experience world class whitewater at Colorado's Royal Gorge! Incredible scenery and epic whitewater blend to make this one of North America's premier rafting destinations. This 3-hour excursion is led by a local guide, and is a perfect way to spend a half day. Your adventure awaits!

Price: $132.00

Duration: 3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(96 reviews)

This interpretive 3-hour jeep tour departs from Canon City and meanders through bright red towering spires and monoliths sculpted by the erosion of the fountain formation. Your geological tour through time includes a short walk out to "Overlook Arch" and a up-close look at dinosaur footprints left over 107 million years ago. You will see where paleontologists have been removing dinosaur remains for over 140 years from one of the most famous digs in history along with ancient Indian petroglyphs. This scenic tour is just one of the amazing locations we visit from our office in Cañon City. If this tour doesn't meet your needs, we most likely have one that does. We offer tours and packages from 3 hours to all day. Be sure to see our other listings for more options.

Price: $149.00

Duration: 3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(1068 reviews)

Just one hour from Colorado Springs, Echo Canyon's Bighorn Sheep Canyon Half Day rafting trip is the most popular of our river experiences with miles of splashy class II and III whitewater at most water flows. You'll paddle through a number of adventurous rapids but don't forget to keep an eye out for Bighorn Sheep and other wildlife native to this region of Colorado. This is a beginner to intermediate section of whitewater intended for kids as young as about 6 years of age. Swimming ability is recommended, and guests should in relatively good physical condition and stable on their feet. Paddling is not required for this trip for those who prefer to hang on while floating the river. Time of the river is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Price: $150.80

Duration: 3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(317 reviews)

Explore Colorado's Bighorn Sheep Canyon with this half-day river experience. Spend three hours rafting along the Arkansas River, an ideal excursion for first-time rafters and families with kids. Bighorn Sheep Canyon provides beautiful vistas set in a diverse desert ecology, with a variety of Class II and II whitewater rapids. Prepare to have fun and get soaked. There will be an opportunity to stop and swim along the way.

Price: $116.00

Duration: 3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(87 reviews)

Experience the rapids of the Royal Gorge on this guided, full-day rafting trip. This is the ultimate Colorado rafting adventure. Combine a Bighorn Sheep Canyon run in the morning with a Royal Gorge excursion in the afternoon. It's is the perfect whitewater trip for rafters who want to truly experience the rapids of the Royal Gorge. A riverside lunch is included.

Price: $199.00

Duration: 6 hours

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Key Info for Visitors

  • Currency: USD
  • Languages: English, Spanish
  • Climate: Semi-arid
  • Timezone: America/Denver
  • Population: Approximately 17,000 residents
  • Best Time to Visit: best time to visit Cañon City is late spring through early fall when the weather is warm and outdoor activities are in full swing.
  • Visa Requirements Visitors from the United States do not require a visa. Citizens from the European Union, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter the United States visa-free for tourism purposes under the Visa Waiver Program, typically for stays up to 90 days. Other nationalities may require a visa or an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval. It is recommended to check the latest U.S. visa policies before travel.

About Cañon City

Cañon City, nestled in the heart of Colorado, is a captivating destination that combines natural beauty with rich history and vibrant outdoor activities. Known as the "Climate Capital of Colorado," it boasts a mild, semi-arid climate ideal for year-round exploration. The city is uniquely positioned along the Arkansas River and is famed for the Royal Gorge, a breathtaking canyon featuring one of the highest suspension bridges in the world. Visitors are drawn to Cañon City for its blend of adventure and culture, including hiking, rafting, and wildlife viewing, alongside historic sites and museums that tell the story of the American West. The welcoming small-town atmosphere, combined with spectacular landscapes and a variety of recreational options, makes Cañon City a compelling choice for travelers seeking both excitement and relaxation.

Cañon City Tours & Experiences

  • Top Attractions: Highlights of Colorado
  • Duration Range: Half-day or Full-day
  • Group Size: Intimate Groups
  • Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
  • Recommended For: The best time to visit Cañon City is late spring through early fall when the weather is warm and outdoor activities are in full swing. Pack layers to accommodate temperature changes, sturdy shoes for hiking, and sun protection. Respect local customs by greeting residents politely and observing quiet hours. Stay hydrated and be cautious when engaging in adventure sports. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases.

Average Tour Price: $65

Lowest Price Tour: $39

Highest Price Tour: $250

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Important Tour Information

  • Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
  • Check tour cancellation and refund policies
  • Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
  • Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation

Top Attractions

1. Royal Gorge Bridge and Park – Home to one of the world’s highest suspension bridges, offering panoramic views, zip lines, and a sky coaster. 2. Arkansas River – Popular for white-water rafting, kayaking, and fishing, providing thrilling water adventures. 3. Skyline Drive – A scenic 3.5-mile road offering stunning overlooks of the city and surrounding canyons. 4. Cañon City Historic Downtown – Features charming shops, restaurants, and historic architecture reflecting the city’s heritage. 5. Museum of Colorado Prisons – A unique museum located in a former prison, showcasing the history of incarceration in the state.

Popular Activities

Visitors to Cañon City can enjoy a wide range of activities including white-water rafting on the Arkansas River, hiking and biking along scenic trails, and exploring the Royal Gorge via bridge walk or zip line. Cultural experiences include touring historic sites and museums, attending local festivals, and sampling regional cuisine. For those seeking relaxation, the city offers peaceful parks and golf courses. Wildlife watching and photography are also popular due to the diverse natural surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cañon City is best known for its stunning natural scenery, outdoor adventure opportunities, and the Royal Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in the United States.

The nearest major airport is Colorado Springs Airport, about 45 minutes away by car. Cañon City is accessible by car via U.S. Highway 50 and State Highway 115.

Yes, Cañon City offers many family-friendly activities including the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, museums, and outdoor recreation suitable for all ages.

We have tours designed for various age groups and fitness levels. Each tour description includes specific requirements and recommendations.

Local Food & Cuisine

Cañon City’s food scene features classic American fare with a Western twist, including hearty steaks, bison burgers, and locally sourced trout. Southwestern influences bring flavors like green chili and spicy salsas. Must-try dishes include Colorado lamb and Rocky Mountain oysters. Popular dining spots include local steakhouses and family-owned cafes known for their friendly atmosphere and regional specialties.

Getting Around

The best way to reach Cañon City is by car from nearby airports such as Colorado Springs or Denver. Local transportation options are limited, so renting a car is recommended for exploring the area. Within the city, driving is convenient with ample parking downtown and near major attractions. Taxi services and limited shuttle options are available, but public transit is minimal.

Travel Tips

The best time to visit Cañon City is late spring through early fall when the weather is warm and outdoor activities are in full swing. Pack layers to accommodate temperature changes, sturdy shoes for hiking, and sun protection. Respect local customs by greeting residents politely and observing quiet hours. Stay hydrated and be cautious when engaging in adventure sports. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases.

Culture & Customs

Cañon City residents value friendliness, hospitality, and a laid-back lifestyle. Social customs include casual greetings and tipping in restaurants. Local festivals such as the Royal Gorge Fireworks and Harvest Festival celebrate community and heritage. Visitors should be respectful of natural areas and private property. Punctuality is appreciated for tours and appointments.

About The Author

Calvin Author

Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.

Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.

Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..

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