
Red Canyon Park
Discover breathtaking red rock landscapes and unique formations at Red Canyon Park, a hidden gem offering adventure without the crowds.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps for hiking

Red Canyon Park
Best Time
Pleasant temps for hiking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover breathtaking red rock landscapes and unique formations at Red Canyon Park, a hidden gem offering adventure without the crowds.
"A local recommended this park + referred to it as 'discount Sedona'. Cool place to hike + scramble that’s away from the crowds. "

🚗 Drive the Scenic Route
Skyline Drive offers incredible views, but it's a one-way road with steep drops. Drive carefully!
🥾 Hike the Riverbeds
The riverbeds have changed over time, offering new adventures and canyon views on foot.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Red Rock Formations
Explore unique, vibrant red rock landscapes and hoodoos that rival more famous destinations.

Scenic Hiking Trails
Discover numerous trails winding through canyons, offering adventure and breathtaking views.

Skyline Drive
Experience a thrilling one-way road with panoramic views of the surrounding red rock canyons.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Red Rock Adventure
Best Time to Explore
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive the Scenic Route
Skyline Drive offers incredible views, but it's a one-way road with steep drops. Drive carefully!
🥾 Hike the Riverbeds
The riverbeds have changed over time, offering new adventures and canyon views on foot.
🤫 Seek Solitude
This park is a hidden gem, often providing a peaceful experience with few other visitors.
🐴 Horse & ATV Friendly
Respectful riders share the trails; it's a great spot for equestrian adventures.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive the Scenic Route
Skyline Drive offers incredible views, but it's a one-way road with steep drops. Drive carefully!
🥾 Hike the Riverbeds
The riverbeds have changed over time, offering new adventures and canyon views on foot.
🤫 Seek Solitude
This park is a hidden gem, often providing a peaceful experience with few other visitors.
🐴 Horse & ATV Friendly
Respectful riders share the trails; it's a great spot for equestrian adventures.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Red Canyon Park's stunning red rock scenery and peaceful atmosphere, often calling it a 'discount Sedona' and a hidden gem. Many appreciate the lack of crowds and the affordability, making it a perfect spot for hiking, scenic drives, and photography. Some note that the riverbeds have changed, offering new hiking adventures.
"Beautiful, sandy river beds, pretty ride !! Courteous people, I'm on horse and always get treated with respect!! Thank you to all who ride atvs, n such so far everyone, completely understands horse's can be stupid lol and give us the right of way !! And help desensitize my 3 yr old to them ! My favorite place to ride with beginners or semi not beginners lol !! I would love to bring chainsaw and clear Riverbeds !! Hopefully ok because I'm bringing next time !!! Thank you TNT short for Todd n tina"
Tina Hames
"I drove into the park in early December. It is drivable if you don’t want to hike but there is a small parking lot if you want to hike the trails. I had the place to myself. There are pull offs if you want to walk to some of the formations or just take pics. Snow and ice on some of the roads but all were navigable with a normal vehicle. Very pretty and peaceful. Some picnic spots and restrooms and no cost to enter."
Susan Schubert
"Good memories of a place I took my two sons in 2003. Back then I drove them up the riverbed in my 4 wheel drive. Now in 2022 the riverbed has dropped considerably. With new terrain the canyon is a bit deeper & can only be seen by foot. The hike is an adventure as you turn each corner to find a new view of the canyon walls."
Paul Dearinger
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Red Canyon Park is located just west of Cañon City. Follow signs for the park, which is easily accessible by car. Many visitors drive Skyline Drive for scenic views.
Yes, the park is generally accessible in winter, though some roads may have snow and ice. A normal vehicle should be able to navigate most areas.
You can drive through parts of the park, including the scenic Skyline Drive, or explore on foot via its numerous hiking trails.
No, there is no cost to enter Red Canyon Park, making it an affordable outdoor destination.
Yes, a regular vehicle is sufficient for most areas, especially if you stick to the main roads and parking lots.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required for Red Canyon Park. It's a free-to-enter public park.
Red Canyon Park is open year-round, typically from dawn to dusk, though specific hours can vary. It's best to check local information if you plan a very early or late visit.
Absolutely! You can enjoy scenic drives and short walks to formations in just a couple of hours, or spend a full day hiking.
Generally, there are no major restrictions, but always be mindful of park rules regarding fires, camping, and respecting the natural environment.
Pets are generally allowed in Red Canyon Park, but they must be kept on a leash and you should clean up after them.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
While specific trail names aren't always prominent, exploring the sandy riverbeds and canyon walls offers an adventurous hike. The 'Red Canyon Hike' is a popular out-and-back option.
Yes, the park is a photographer's dream with its unique red rock formations, canyons, and expansive views. Skyline Drive offers many pull-offs for photos.
You might encounter various desert wildlife. It's also a popular area for horses and ATVs, so be aware of shared trails.
Yes, there are picnic spots available within the park, making it a great place for a family outing or a relaxing lunch amidst nature.
Compared to more famous parks, Red Canyon Park is often described as having 'zero crowds' or being a 'hidden gem,' offering a more peaceful experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants within Red Canyon Park itself. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks for a picnic.
Cañon City, located a short drive away, offers various dining options, from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants.
While specific rules can vary, it's generally advisable to check local regulations regarding open fires or barbecues. Picnic areas are available.
Yes, it's highly recommended to pack plenty of snacks and water, especially if you plan on hiking, as amenities are limited within the park.
It's unlikely to find regular food trucks or vendors directly at the park. Your best bet for food is Cañon City.
📸 📸 Photography
The unique red rock formations, canyon walls, and expansive vistas from Skyline Drive are prime photography locations. Every turn offers a new perspective.
Absolutely. The dramatic red rock landscapes, especially during sunrise and sunset, provide stunning opportunities for landscape photographers.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer hues enhancing the red rock colors.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with local authorities or park management before flying a drone to ensure compliance with any restrictions.
The park is known for its hoodoos and unique eroded rock formations. Exploring the canyon floor and higher ridges will reveal many photogenic spots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated spots. The scenic drives, like Skyline Drive, also offer engaging views for younger passengers. It's a great place to let kids burn off energy in a beautiful, natural setting without the overwhelming crowds of larger national parks.
💰 Budget Travelers
This makes it an ideal day trip from Cañon City or a stop on a larger Colorado road trip. The main costs would be transportation and any food or drinks you bring along. It offers a high-value experience for minimal cost.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Skyline Drive provides numerous vantage points for capturing panoramic shots, while hiking trails lead you into the heart of the formations for more intimate compositions. The park's relative lack of crowds means you can often set up your shots without interruption.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Red Canyon Park's Geology
Geologists find the area particularly fascinating due to the variety of rock types and the visible evidence of past geological activity. The landscape has evolved significantly over time; what was once a riverbed accessible by 4WD vehicles is now a deeper canyon best explored on foot, revealing new terrain with each visit.
For visitors, this means a dynamic and ever-changing landscape. Whether you're hiking through the sandy riverbeds or driving the scenic Skyline Drive, you're experiencing a living testament to the Earth's powerful forces.
Hiking and Outdoor Activities
Beyond hiking, the park is also popular for horseback riding and ATV use, with shared trails that accommodate different recreational activities. This makes it a versatile destination for groups with diverse interests. The park's relatively uncrowded nature means you can often enjoy a peaceful experience, whether you're a beginner hiker or an experienced adventurer.
For those seeking a more structured experience, guided tours, such as those offered by Colorado Jeep Tours, can provide a unique way to navigate and learn about the park's geology and history.
Skyline Drive: A Thrilling Scenic Route
The drive itself is an adventure, with steep inclines and narrow sections that demand attention. It's a fantastic way to get a broad overview of the park's beauty without extensive hiking. Numerous pull-offs allow drivers to stop, take photos, and simply soak in the incredible scenery.
It's important to note that Skyline Drive is a one-way road, and drivers should be prepared for heights and winding turns. It's a must-do for visitors looking for scenic vistas and a bit of an adrenaline rush.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit