Royal Gorge Jeep & Train Adventure in Cañon City, Colorado - Colorado Springs

Royal Gorge Jeep & Train Adventure in Cañon City, Colorado

Colorado Springsmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

6 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should be in average physical condition comfortable with 30-60 minutes of seated, bumpy Jeep riding and some walking at train stops.

Overview

Discover Colorado’s rugged beauty on a private 6-hour Royal Gorge Jeep and train tour. Enjoy thrilling off-road rides, stunning wildlife sightings, and a scenic lunch onboard the train.

Details

Experience the best of Colorado’s natural beauty on the Royal Gorge Jeep & Royal Gorge Train tour, an unforgettable 6-hour adventure offered by Colorado Jeep Tours. This unique combination of a rugged Jeep ride through the Royal Gorge Loop and a scenic train journey offers an immersive way to explore Cañon City’s stunning landscapes. Along the way, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of towering cliffs, the Arkansas River, and expansive wilderness. The trip is perfect for those who enjoy both off-road thrills and relaxing scenic rides. Wildlife lovers will appreciate spotting bald eagles soaring overhead and bighorn sheep navigating rocky ledges. The onboard lunch adds a delicious and convenient component to this active day, allowing guests to savor fresh meals while taking in spectacular surroundings. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or adventure seeker, this trip blends excitement, comfort, and education. Learn about the geology and local history as expert guides share stories during the Jeep and train segments. The combination of ground-based exploration and train travel makes it an especially appealing experience for small groups wanting a private, personalized journey. Prepare for an adventure that highlights why Colorado remains a top destination for outdoor experiences.

Adventure Tips

Wear layered clothing

Temperatures can vary throughout the day, so dress in layers to stay comfortable during both Jeep and train segments.

Bring binoculars

Enhance wildlife viewing by bringing binoculars to spot bald eagles and bighorn sheep along the route.

Secure loose items

Due to bumpy Jeep terrain, secure hats and loose gear to avoid losing them during the ride.

Arrive early for check-in

Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding process for both Jeep and train segments.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Paint Mines Interpretive Park nearby for colorful geological formations
  • Tunnel Drive, a scenic road with stunning views of the Royal Gorge

Wildlife

  • Bald eagles soaring above the Arkansas River
  • Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep on the cliffs

History

The Royal Gorge has a rich history tied to railroad development in the late 19th century and was known as the ‘Grand Canyon of the Arkansas.’

Conservation

Efforts by local groups help protect the fragile ecosystems of the Royal Gorge area, emphasizing responsible tourism and wildlife preservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon)
Midday for clear shots of wildlife
Sunset for dramatic canyon lighting

Best Viewpoints

  • Royal Gorge Bridge overlook
  • Arkansas River vantage points along the Jeep trail
  • Train windows facing west for sunset views

What to Photograph

River and canyon landscapes
Wildlife including eagles and bighorn sheep
Historic train and rugged Jeep terrain

Recommended Gear

Layered clothing

Essential

Helps adapt to changing temperatures during the day.

Binoculars

Great for spotting distant wildlife and birds.

Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)

Essential

Protects against strong Colorado sun during exposed Jeep portions.

summer specific

Camera

Capture breathtaking landscapes and wildlife moments.

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