Family Vacation Colorado & New Mexico – The Royal Gorge

This area is probably the best vacation for kids. So much to see! Here’s our Family Vacation Colorado & New Mexico – The Royal Gorge.

This has been one family vacation to remember. The weather was beautiful, and the view was breathtaking.

Family Vacation Colorado & New Mexico – The Royal Gorge

Brody and I flew to Colorado City, CO and Tracy picked us up. He was already in New Mexico getting his 2nd home ready for when he goes back in September for work. After he picked us up, we drove straight to see the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park. It was quite a difference from when I was there last with my family many years ago…and I mean way different.

I must have been there back in the 70’s, and back then I remember feeding the deer right outside the entrance to the Royal Gorge. That’s just one difference; the other was the price of admissions. I know my dad would not have paid too much for our family of 5 to get in. Be prepared – I believe it cost $25 a person to enter.

I had worn a dress on the plane and brought a sweater just in case I needed it. Nope, didn’t need it and it was a hot day…but not as hot as where we live in north Texas. We were so glad to get away from that heat. It was a beautiful day, and we started out riding the tram across the mountain. This is a must do as you can see the whole park from above. No extra cost, but just a long line. I got some great photos from up there. The man standing there directing us inside the tram was telling us which way to go and which way not to go. He cussed too…which surprised me. So, we took his advice and walked DOWN the mountain to the bridge.

We had been given a booklet when we bought our tickets about a scavenger hunt that we could do. Thought Brody would like to do it, so before we got on the tram, we made sure to the first and second missing letter. I can’t remember it all, but if you get all the missing letters in this scavenger hunt it spells a word, and you have to guess what the word is and take it up to the front when you’re ready to go they will give your child a ranger badge. It was fun. I recommend it – it’s free. I believe once you pay the price of admittance everything else is free except food and souvenirs.

Family Vacation Colorado & New Mexico – The Royal Gorge

Here are a few things you’ll see.

• The beautiful bridge of course. All 52 state flags are on the bridge. It’s very refreshing to see. Of course, my husband and child posed at ours (above).
• Aerial Gondolas – which I called it a tram. A must do.
• Cloudscraper by ZipRidger – kind of like zip lining but not really – you sit in this chair and glide across. Not as scary as a “real” zip line (cost extra).
• Skycoaster – I don’t remember this, but I’m sure it cost extra too.
• A beautiful Visitor’s Center
• Children’s Playground
• Plaza Theater (summer only)
• Silver Rock Railway – looks like a small train for kids but was closed when we were there.

Lots of fun stuff to do and see for sure. Royal Gorge Bridge & Park, Canon City, CO – make it your next adventure!!!

Our next stop (Day 2) Crested Butte & Gunnison, CO.  go here >>> Family Vacation Colorado & New Mexico – Crested Butte & Gunnison, CO