Five Must-Photograph Locations in the Royal Gorge Region

The Royal Gorge

The Royal Gorge in Cañon City offers some of Colorado’s most dramatic views and colors. With its deep walls and Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range backdrop, the scale and grandeur of the canyon are arguably unparalleled. 

The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park

The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park suggests five must-take photos for those wanting to capture the canyon’s scope and beauty. The list includes Point Sublime on the south side of the park, the fence near the Plaza Theater, from the bridge itself, the platform outside the park’s entrance, and the old Incline overlook.

Orchards

With its mild climate and tillable soil, the Royal Gorge Region became a rich agricultural hub starting as far back as the 1860s. With many of Colorado’s earliest orchards planted in Cañon City and Florence, the region became famous for its fruit harvests. Visit Colon Orchards to catch springtime blossoms or rich fall colors.

Oil Well Flats

Oil Well Flats is a recreational trail system located 6.5 miles north of Cañon City. At the top of the Island in the Sky trail, there’s an expansive view of the Arkansas River Valley, which includes the Royal Gorge, The Arkansas River, and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. A photograph from here will show anyone the varied and dramatic landscape offered by the Royal Gorge Region. Deep within the trail system, other scenic features include a 200-foot cliff of pitted slickrock, a shaded patch of woods, and an old burn area that’s been transformed into a rolling prairie.

Red Canyon Park

With 600 acres of pinon, sage, and red rock formations to explore, there are dozens of opportunities for a gorgeous photograph at Red Canyon Park, located just north of Cañon City. Just imagine what the area’s towering red rocks look like as they reflect the setting sun.

Temple Canyon

A hike straight down into Temple Canyon takes you to a floor cut by Grape Creek. In the spring and summer, green cottonwoods and wildflowers line the canyon’s floors. For a unique shot, follow the trail across the creek to a gorgeous, natural amphitheater known as The Temple.

You are sure to get some great shots in the Royal Gorge Region. Along the way please make sure to Care for Colorado and Leave No Trace.