Tunnel Drive Trailhead

I spent the day in Canon City and was so glad that I decided to check out this trail! I absolutely loved walking it! Only wish I could've spent more time on it. I had to turn around because of an injury to one of my toes. I ended up walking a long distance but could've walked further if it hadn't been for my toe. Make sure that you bring water while walking the trail. Wear sunscreen and a good hat as well. I enjoyed the length of the trail and the view of the river while walking it. It was wonderful seeing fellow trail walkers as well! I love how the trailhead starts out paved and how you must walk a while up a winding incline. This trailhead is also sort of "off the beaten path" as well. I like that aspect of it as well. I'm planning on returning here again to walk more of the trail. I will definitely bring my Camelbak on my next trek. I also recommend wearing hiking shoes on this trail. Once you pass the initial winding incline, which isn't that long, this trail is completely flat. I'm recommending hiking shoes because the trail is dirt and small rocks. If you're ever in Canon City, check out this trail. You will probably like it or perhaps fall in love with it, like I have. Also, there are public restrooms at the bottom of the trailhead and there is plenty of parking nearby. The parking isn't a paved lot or lined spaces. There is just plenty of area to park at. Enjoy your visit here!

We were drawn to Cañon City by two big tourist attractions in the area and we ended up enjoying this free trail the most. The trail is about two miles one way and it dead ends, so you will need to walk back the same way. It looks like they are working on building an additional trail up the mountain at the end of the trail. From the trail you can see the Royal Gorge train below. We ended up skipping the train ride after visiting this trail (and saving ourselves almost $500). If you're lucky you will also get to see bighorn sheep hanging out on the mountains. One thing to note, it gets hot here! We went about 10am in early April. The temperature was only in the 60s but with the sun shining and zero shade we quickly got warm. If you're going in the summer be mindful of what time you go.

Kids slept in at the hotel after camping for 5 days, so I decided to head out for a quick hike right outside of Canon City. This trail starts off with a steep paved trail up to the first of three tunnels. Once past the incline, this trail is a gravel path with minimal elevation. Wish I would have brought my bike to cruise to the end of the trail. Great views of the Arkansas River and railroad below. At the end of the trail, I had my breakfast and enjoyed the solitude. Didn't see any bighorn sheep and the trail up the mountain was closed due to breeding season, but will be back to head to the top next time. Great hike for all levels.

I was not expecting the long walk. We finished half of the walk and the views were beautiful! We are from Chicago and this is definitely worth a stop to walk and move your legs! There is also a bathroom at the beginning of your trail