Hanging above the raging Arkansas River, the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park opens its gates every day from 7 a.m. to dusk to let you witness the immense beauty of a place where ingenuity meets nature. Located only two hours from Denver outside of Canon City, Colorado, the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park will captivate you with 360-degree views of sheer cliffs and clear blue Colorado skies. Offering sights that will surely take your breath away. Here is my guide to the ultimate day trip at the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park.

Take a ride in the sky

The Aerial Gondola will have you gliding across the 2,200-foot gap while hovering 1,200 feet above the canyon floor. Views will abound and heights are in full supply. I recommend that you start your adventure on the north side of the bridge. Take the Aerial Gondola from the north side to the south side. This will bring you over to all the other attractions and the best hike to points in the park. Plus it’s a great way to get your blood pumping first thing in the morning.

Snap a selfie at Point Sublime

Situated on the south side of the Royal Gorge, Point Sublime has a clear shot of the bridge, the Royal Gorge and the Arkansas River below. Framed by sheer granite cliffs, this vista is sure to make even the most seasoned photographers drool with desire.

Zip through the air

Coming in as the highest zip line in North America the Cloudscraper Zip Line will push your adrenaline meter all the way up. This revolutionary zip line system allows riders to be hands-free. So you can snap, scream and throw your hands in the air and wave them like you just don’t care that you’re over 1,200 feet in the air.

Go for a stroll

Take your time and stroll down the Royal Gorge Bridge. Built in 1929 the Royal Gorge Bridge is one of the highest and most famous suspension bridges in the entire world. Stop in the center of the bridge to take in all the infamous Colorado beauty and feel the bridge sway gently under your feet.

End on a high note with a concert 

Cap off the day with live music. The Park After Dark concert series brings you five unique summer concerts to the Elk Park Amphitheater. Catch one of the two remaining acts. See the Gin Blossoms perform on August 20 or end the summer season on a high note with Blitzen Trapper on September 17, 2016. Every concert ticket grants you park admission to the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park.

Other attractions at Royal Gorge include a sky coaster, a children’s playland and one of the only water clocks in the world. So don’t just stop at our suggestions, get out and explore!