Skyline Drive Canon City
A thrilling, narrow one-way drive atop a ridge offering stunning 360-degree views of Canon City and the surrounding mountains.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour views
Skyline Drive Canon City
Best Time
Golden hour views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A thrilling, narrow one-way drive atop a ridge offering stunning 360-degree views of Canon City and the surrounding mountains.
"Skyline Drive is a must-see for anyone visiting Canon City, its steep, cliff-side climb makes you feel as though you are "off-roading". 
🚗 Drive with Care
This one-way road has no guardrails. Stick to the 15 mph speed limit and be extra cautious on hairpin turns. :warning:
📸 Camera Ready!
The views are incredible from start to finish. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning panoramas. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Ridge Drive
The entire 2.6-mile road
Experience a thrilling one-way drive along a narrow ridge with stunning 360-degree views of Canon City and the surrounding landscape.
+1Panoramic Overlooks
Various pull-off points
Stop at designated spots to soak in the incredible vistas. Perfect for photography and appreciating the vast Colorado scenery.
Summit Trail
At the peak of the drive
A short trail at the highest point offers even more expansive views and a unique perspective from the very top.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Heights: Drive with Caution
+1Timing is Everything for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive with Care
This one-way road has no guardrails. Stick to the 15 mph speed limit and be extra cautious on hairpin turns.
📸 Camera Ready!
The views are incredible from start to finish. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning panoramas. :camerawithflash:
⏳ Short but Sweet
The drive itself is only about 2.6 miles and takes roughly 10-15 minutes without stops. :stopwatch:
⛰️ Not for Acrophobes
If you have a fear of heights, this drive might be challenging. The lack of guardrails is a significant factor.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive with Care
This one-way road has no guardrails. Stick to the 15 mph speed limit and be extra cautious on hairpin turns.
📸 Camera Ready!
The views are incredible from start to finish. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning panoramas. :camerawithflash:
⏳ Short but Sweet
The drive itself is only about 2.6 miles and takes roughly 10-15 minutes without stops. :stopwatch:
⛰️ Not for Acrophobes
If you have a fear of heights, this drive might be challenging. The lack of guardrails is a significant factor.
💰 Free Scenic Drive
Enjoy this breathtaking experience without any admission fee. It's a fantastic way to see Canon City. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking, unparalleled views from Skyline Drive, calling it a must-see scenic route. The unique experience of driving along a narrow ridge with no guardrails is both thrilling and memorable, though it's noted as challenging for those with a fear of heights. The short duration and free access make it a highly recommended stop for anyone visiting Canon City.
"Skyline drive is one way road with wonderful view of both sides.
Only 15 miles/h is speed limit to drive safely.
Old prisoners made this road and it's awesome driveway."
Keiko Masuda
"We did it!
Im thankful we've been in Colorado for a few years now and got acclimated to the altitude and the mountain driving, or else this would have been quite terrifying!!
Staying locally for a week we saw this and knew about it from others so we made the decision to just do it.
Now we can say we have driven the Skyline road.
There is no cost to drive yourself up.
And it is only a 10-15min road, unless you stop and get out at places.
I read that the local prisoners helped build it back in early 1900s, I think they did a great job 👍🏼
I will admit, as passenger, there was a sec there at one point I did feel my heart rate increase ❣️"
Lea Rose Bell
"Great views along this one way thrilling ride, not for the faint of heart or those afraid of heights. A couple of trails at the top that also leave you feeling "on edge". A must if you're in the area/ passing through and can handle it."
AdvoK8great
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Skyline Drive is located just south of Canon City, Colorado. Access is typically from the west side of town. Follow local signage directing you to the entrance of the one-way road.
Yes, Skyline Drive is a paved road, though it is narrow and winds along the ridge.
While the official speed limit is often posted as 15 mph, it's crucial to drive cautiously and adjust your speed based on conditions and visibility.
Due to its narrowness and hairpin turns, it's generally not recommended for large RVs or vehicles over a certain length. Check local advisories if you have a larger vehicle.
Skyline Drive is typically open year-round, but it can be subject to temporary closures due to weather conditions, especially snow and ice in winter. Always check local conditions before visiting.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to drive Skyline Drive. It's a free scenic route for visitors to enjoy.
Skyline Drive is generally accessible during daylight hours. It is a public road, but it's best to visit when there is sufficient light for safe driving and enjoying the views.
No advance booking or tickets are required for Skyline Drive as it is a public road.
The primary restriction is that it is a one-way road. Visitors should also be aware of the lack of guardrails and the narrowness of the road, which may deter those with severe acrophobia.
Yes, there are designated pull-off areas where you can safely stop to enjoy the views and take photos.
📸 📸 Photography
Every pull-off offers a unique perspective, but the summit trail provides a particularly commanding view. The entire drive is incredibly photogenic.
Sunset offers dramatic lighting and colors, while early morning provides softer light and fewer crowds. Golden hour in both morning and evening is ideal.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in the distance. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards!
Always be aware of your surroundings and the edge of the road. Secure your equipment when moving around pull-off areas.
Drone regulations vary by location. It's essential to check current FAA and local regulations before flying a drone in this area.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
The drive itself is only about 2.6 miles and typically takes 10-15 minutes without stops. However, you'll want to factor in time for pulling over and enjoying the views.
The road was reportedly built by local prisoners in the early 1900s, making it a historical and unique engineering feat.
Yes, there is a short trail at the peak of the drive that offers further exploration and stunning views.
Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to walk the summit trail. Layers are always a good idea in Colorado's mountain climate.
While children can enjoy the views, parents should be extra vigilant due to the lack of guardrails and the steep drop-offs. Keep a close eye on them at all times.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The drive is short, making it manageable for younger attention spans, and the pull-off points allow for breaks to enjoy the scenery. Consider visiting during less crowded times, like early mornings, to ensure a more relaxed experience. If your children are not afraid of heights, they will likely be mesmerized by the expansive views. The summit trail is also a short, accessible option for a bit of exploration. Ensure everyone is wearing comfortable shoes, and be prepared for changing mountain weather.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring your wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the landscape and consider a telephoto for distant details. The numerous pull-off spots provide ample opportunities to frame unique shots. Don't miss the short trail at the summit for an even higher vantage point. Remember to pack extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll likely be taking more photos than you anticipate. Always be mindful of the road's edge when setting up your equipment.
🚗 Road Trip Adventurers
+1 It's a perfect stop for a quick adventure that delivers big on views and bragging rights. The one-way nature simplifies navigation, allowing you to focus on the breathtaking scenery. Combine your drive with other local attractions in Canon City, such as the Royal Gorge Bridge, for a full day of exploration. Remember to check road conditions before you go, especially during winter months, and always drive with caution.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Ridge: Driving Skyline Drive
+1Travelers often describe the drive as thrilling and not for the faint of heart, with some experiencing an increased heart rate due to the sheer exposure.
+1Interestingly, the road's construction is attributed to local prisoners in the early 1900s, adding a layer of historical intrigue to the adventure.
Capturing the Majesty: Photography on Skyline Drive
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the full scope of the scenery, from the city of Canon City below to the distant mountain ranges. A telephoto lens can also be useful for isolating interesting geological features or distant landmarks. The summit trail at the peak offers an even more commanding viewpoint, allowing for unique perspectives looking down the ridge.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit