The world's scariest skycoaster, one of the world's steepest incline railways and one of the world's longest single-span aerial trams… and that's just the start of what Colorado's classic destination has to offer. It's a true Colorado family vacation experience and it's only at the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park.

The story of how the Royal Gorge was discovered is as compelling as how the Royal Gorge Bridge was made. The first to visit were Native American Indians, who hunted and camped in sheltered canyons and mountain parks of this Colorado region.


Engineering Facts

  • Built in 1968 at a cost of $350,000
  • Length: 2,200 feet (671 meters)
  • Height above Arkansas River: 1,178 feet (359 meters)
  • Power: direct current motor
  • Auxiliary gasoline emergency standby engine
  • Maximum speed: 11.4 mph
  • Capacity of cabin: 35 passengers
  • Track cables weigh over seven tons each
  • More than two miles of cables utilized in tramway system
  • Safety: wind-warning gauges working at all times; tram will not operate during severe weather or gusty winds

SOARING EAGLE ZIP LINE


The Soaring Eagle Zip Line, the highest zip line in the world, will make its debut at the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park in the Spring of 2012.  Perched on the 1,000 foot granite wall on the northside of the bridge, the ride will have two zip lines carrying two riders each, and will zip 700 feet over canyon walls from 1,000 to 800 feet above the Arkansas River, and then zip back at approximately 35 miles per hour.  Unlike a typical canopy type zip line tour, riders are secured into a "chair" that gives guests freedom of movement for the arms and legs.  This ride is very family friendly and is a perfect thrill ride to enhance the wonderful experiences that the Park already has to offer.

Ride is currently under construction and will open this spring/early summer.  This ride is an extra pay feature.

While the descendants of wild burros left behind during the Colorado gold rush days still fend for themselves throughout the Pikes Peak region, our burros are gentle and tame, making a wonderful ride for our young visitors (22-48 in tall) and giving them a memorable Colorado experience. This is one attraction the family won't want to miss.


Available only during peak season.


With over 2,200 lights and a full menagerie of animals to ride, everyone loves our finely-decorated and brilliantly-colored carousel. This ride provides great family entertainment; even grandparents will enjoy a fun, music-filled spin in one of two ornate chariots.


Available only during peak season.


Built in 1931, and traveling at a 45-degree angle, one of the world's steepest incline railways is still considered one of the most difficult structures ever built. Here, timeless granite walls loom all around as you descend over 1,500 feet to the canyon floor, a mere 50 feet at its widest. Looking up, the Bridge appears as a delicate ribbon cutting across the sky.

Stepping off the car, you'll enjoy the cool spray of the roaring Arkansas River, while white water rafters brave the Class 5 rapids below your feet. One can only imagine what it must have been like with guns blazing and dynamite exploding as early railroad officials hired Bat Masterson to protect their crew and materials in the Royal Gorge War.

Engineering Facts

  • Construction began in 1930 and completed in 1931
  • Length of incline: 1,550 feet (473 meters)
  • 100% grade, 45-degree angle
  • Powered by Otis Elevator with a completely automatic SCR drive system
  • Standby emergency diesel engine
  • Maximum speed: 11.4 mph
  • Rate of descent: 3 mph
  • Weight of cars: 4,500 lbs.
  • Travel time: 5.5 minutes each way
  • Same engineering and construction crews that built the Bridge
  • Safety: 19 manually operated stopping devices, also equipped with automatic governor to stop each car
  • Listed on the National Historic Register


Mule Rides go into Royal Gorge Country. The View Point is a half hour trail ride and the Terrain trail ride is an hour ride. Ride the Rim of the Gorge Extreme Ride is a two hour ride. Mules are the cross between a male donkey and a female horse best known for being surefooted on all types of terrain.

wattmules.com

Available only during peak season.
Age Requirement: must be six years and older to ride
Additional charge.


All aboard our scale-model of “Old 424, an original 1893 locomotive. It's a great way to start your day at the Park; the open-air cars allow you to take in the natural beauty of the Royal Gorge region. This one-mile ride is a favorite experience of children and parents alike.


Available only during peak season.


The Royal Rush Skycoaster is the most awesome adrenaline rush in the state of Colorado. Imagine a free-fall tower sweeping you 50 mph to hang momentarily over 1,200 feet above the Arkansas River, which looks like a tiny blue line far, far below. The Royal Rush Skycoaster is one of only 87 in the world, and was recently named the scariest Skycoaster of them all. There's no better way to add a little adventure to your Colorado vacation!


Open March-October.  This is an extra pay feature.


Engineering Facts

  • Constructed and opened in 2003
  • Height: 100 feet
  • Height above the Arkansas River: 1,200 feet
  • Riders: one to three people harnessed in per ride
  • Speed: riders reach speeds of up to 50 mph
  • Safety: tower and equipment inspected daily; will not operate during severe weather or winds over 40 mph. Minimum height to ride the Skycoaster is 46”

 


Take a load off and see Colorado's Natural Wonder. Our comfortable open-air trolley makes a complete loop around the perimeter of the Park, with stops at such attractions as the Royal Gorge Bridge, the Incline Railway, Aerial Tram, Royal Rush Skycoaster®, and tours through the Wapiti Western Wildlife Park®.


Available only during peak season.

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