Skyline Drive: A Thrilling Scenic Route

Experience breathtaking views and thrilling heights on Skyline Drive, a historic and scenic route in Cañon City, Colorado.

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Skyline Drive is a 2.6-mile scenic road that follows the top of a razorback ridge overlooking Cañon City, Colorado. Built in 1905 by inmates, this one-way road offers breathtaking views and a thrilling, guardrail-free experience.

A brief summary to Skyline Dr

Colorado, 81212, US

Local tips

Drive a small car or truck, as larger vehicles like motorhomes are not recommended due to the narrow road and sharp turns.
Stop at the pullouts to take in the views and capture photos of the surrounding landscape.
Look for the dinosaur tracks embedded in the cliff face near the top of the drive.
Consider hiking the Old Skyline Drive Trail for even more enhanced views of the area.

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Getting There

Driving

To reach Skyline Drive, head west from Cañon City on Highway 50 for approximately 2 miles. Turn right at the entrance to Skyline Drive under the large stone archway. The drive is a one-way route, so follow the road to the top of the ridge. There are no tolls or parking fees associated with Skyline Drive.

Discover more about Skyline Dr

Skyline Drive, located in Cañon City, Colorado, is a unique and historic scenic route that offers visitors a thrilling experience with stunning panoramic views. Constructed in 1905 by inmates from the nearby Colorado State Penitentiary, the 2.6-mile road follows the top of a narrow razorback ridge, providing dramatic vistas of the Arkansas River Valley and the surrounding landscape. The drive is known for its steep inclines and declines, sharp curves, and the absence of guardrails, creating a sense of excitement and adventure. The one-way road rises approximately 800 feet above the surrounding terrain, offering unobstructed views of Cañon City, Fremont Peak, and the Royal Gorge region. Numerous pullouts along the route allow drivers to stop and admire the scenery, take photographs, and explore the area. In addition to its scenic beauty, Skyline Drive also features paleontological remnants, including dinosaur tracks discovered along the ridge in 1999. These tracks, made by a family of ankylosauruses, offer a glimpse into the region's prehistoric past. The road also provides access to the Hogback Open Space Recreation Area, where visitors can enjoy hiking and explore the Old Skyline Drive Trail. Skyline Drive is open daily during daylight hours, weather permitting, and is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Cañon City.