The Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is more than your average park, it is an integral part of Colorado’s history. The Royal Gorge Bridge was completed in 1929 and is an engineering marvel in itself. This bridge stands at 956 feet above the Arkansas River and is one of the most famous and highest suspension bridges anywhere in the world! It’s so tall that you could fit the entire Empire State Building right underneath it with room to spare (3 feet to be exact!).
There’s much to do at the Royal Gorge beyond the bridge as well. Explore the history and artifacts of the area at the visitors center, check out historical videos at the Plaza Theatre, take in breathtaking views at various photo lookout areas, and more. If you dare, take a ride on their arial gondolas that glide 2,200 feet across the gorge and 1,200 feet above the Arkansas River. They also offer a zip-line all the way across for an awe-inspiring, hair-raising, hands-free experience!
If you’re feeling particularly extreme, take a ride on their royal rush sky coaster, easily one of the biggest adrenaline rushes in the entire state. Soar at 50 MPH through the air in a free fall in which you momentarily dangle 1,200 feet off a cliff and over the Arkansas River.