Skyline Drive: A Thrilling Scenic Route

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.