Royal Gorge Bridge

The Royal Gorge is home to one of the most spectacular attractions in Colorado and throughout the West; the Royal Gorge Bridge. Built in 1929 at a cost of $350,000, the Royal Gorge Bridge hangs 1,053 feet above the Arkansas River, which makes it the highest suspension bridge in the world!

A little digging into Royal Gorge Bridge history reveals the federal government deeded the Royal Gorge Park to the city of Cañon City in 1907, and at a time when people began taking trips in automobiles it became necessary to create an attraction that would draw tourists to the view the impressive river gorge.

Today you can visit the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park which includes the world’s steepest incline railway, an aerial tram and if you dare, the Sky Coast bungee which will swing you right over the rim of the Gorge! With beautiful views and exciting attractions, the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park makes the ideal destination for fun!

Another exciting way to view the geological marvel that is the Royal Gorge Bridge is by taking a whitewater rafting trip with Echo Canyon River Expeditions! Join us for a half day or full day raft trip taking you through the confines of the gorge, under the Royal Gorge Bridge, on a high adventure section of the Arkansas River with class III and IV whitewater.

Your guide will teach you the paddle strokes, show you how to stay in the boat and then it’s time to take on the rapids! In between the rapids you’ll hear stories about the Royal Gorge Bridge, the building of the Royal Gorge railroad and resulting Railroad Wars of the 1870’s, as well as other Royal Gorge Bridge history, geology and the rugged plant and animal life that call the Gorge home.

Don’t miss out on this natural wonder on your next trip in Colorado. Whether you view it by raft, from the Royal Gorge Bridge or the Royal Gorge train, the experience will be one you will not soon forget! Feel free to call us or view our page listing all of the whitewater rafting Royal Gorge Bridge trips we offer so you don’t miss out on this one of a kind natural attraction!