Back in 2014-5, when multiple user groups and agencies got together to create a master plan for recreation and use in Eastern Fremont County, a trail from the Riverwalk (via Tunnel Drive) to the Royal Gorge Trails (via Fremont Peak area) was identified as a potential project and asset to our community. Now in 2021, the EA is complete, the planning is done, and the project is getting closer to completion. High above the Arkansas River, trailbuilders are working diligently to create one of the most intense, bold, ambitious trails ever built in Fremont County. It is a trail that is not only beautiful and challenging, but it povides a key connection between town, Tunnel Drive, and the Royal Gorge Mountain Park and Trails.
From an article in the Daily Record: “This trail would increase access to two local trail systems and improve the outdoor recreation opportunities in the area,” said Keith Berger, Royal Gorge Field Office Manager.
It's happening. But it's not open yet.
Please note that the seasonal closures for this trail are a compromise between the needs of several user groups, including native wildlife. The closure for June and July are for lambing (to be sure that ewes are not expending calories running from trail users and therefore in need of extra calories to feed their young). Reduced hours in August-October are to accommodate hunters who have pulled a coveted Bighorn Sheep tag (about 8 are issued, and hunters utilize dawn and dust time frames to hunt).
From an article in the Daily Record: “This trail would increase access to two local trail systems and improve the outdoor recreation opportunities in the area,” said Keith Berger, Royal Gorge Field Office Manager.
It's happening. But it's not open yet.
Please note that the seasonal closures for this trail are a compromise between the needs of several user groups, including native wildlife. The closure for June and July are for lambing (to be sure that ewes are not expending calories running from trail users and therefore in need of extra calories to feed their young). Reduced hours in August-October are to accommodate hunters who have pulled a coveted Bighorn Sheep tag (about 8 are issued, and hunters utilize dawn and dust time frames to hunt).
- “The BLM’s overall goal for this project is to provide public access, provide high quality recreation opportunities, and improve the quality of life for the area’s residents.”
- Connects the Tunnel Drive Trail (and Rivewalk) to the Royal Gorge Park Trails (near the communication towers).
- This trail will be a challenging trail, and will probably be best hiked up / down or ridden by mountain bike downhill.
- The trail was identified in the Eastern Fremont County Trails, Open Space & River Corridor Master Plan (April 2015)
- Trail will be for foot (hike, run) and bicycle traffic only due to steep grades (~10%), potential conflict with other users, and specialized design.
- Elevation change of about 1,700 feet (that’s about a 157-story building)
- The trail would be about 3.7 miles long, runs through BLM property but begins and ends on City of Cañon City property
- Trail will be natural surface singletrack (from 18” to 3 feet wide)
- Leashed dogs will be permitted
- The trail would be closed June to July, then open 9-5 August-September, open all hours the remainder of the year.
The City of Cañon City is engaging the public in a vote for the name of the trail. To particpate, please visit the poll here.
Please only vote once.
Please only vote once.
Tunnel Drive, Circa 1920's. Photo courtesy of the Royal Gorge Regional Museum and History Center, Cañon City, CO.
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