Tunnel Drive Trail - Canon City, Colorado

The Tunnel Drive Trail is very good for beginners, casual hikers and mountain bikers or those who simply want to take in the rocky views of the eastern end of the Royal Gorge. From the trailhead, it is only two miles one-way.

The trail comprises of an old railroad bed that travels into the Royal Gorge, although not all the way to the Royal Gorge Bridge. The trail goes through three old railroad tunnels, then fully enters the gorge with views of the Arkansas River and the beautiful gorge.

I must say, this is a trail the community of Canon City can be very proud of - one of those things that improves "quality of life" in a tangible way.

Directions: Near the major bend of Highway 50 (west side of Canon City) turn onto Tunnel Drive. The road travels for approximately 0.7 miles to the trailhead. The trail is handicapped accessible, as the first part of the road can be driven on to the handicapped parking section.

-Steve

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Twitter: @stevegarufi
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Tunnel Drive Trail The Arkansas River flows through the base of the gorge, with the trail running elevated on the north side. Beautiful scenery!

	The Hike Markers exist every 0.25 miles.
	Approaching the three tunnels. A few benches exist to relax, read a book or just take in the views.
	The Tunnels The trail goes through three tunnels that once served a railroad. The third tunnel is the longest. Although enough light existed, it might be fun to bring a flash light to see more details inside. My other pages related to old railroad beds, sites and tunnels: Manitou Tunnels (Manitou Springs, CO) Colorado Railroad Museum (Golden, CO) Railroad Bed Trail (Nathrop, CO) Alpine Tunnel (Gunnison County, CO) Midland Tunnels (Buena Vista, CO) Hop Gulch Trestle Site (Buena Vista, CO) Chaffee County Walk On Railroad Tracks
	The creek inside Temple Canyon flows into the Arkansas River.
	Magnificent view of the river, the Royal Gorge Route tracks and of course, those lofty peaks surrounding the gorge.
	Continuing on the hike.
	Plenty of "walking stick" cactus in the area. :)
	Probably my best shot. This grand view can be enjoyed right front the trail!
	Approaching a bridge.
	After two miles, the trail dead-ends.
	One photo as I walked back. I should note I hiked at about 9:45 a.m., and the lightning seemed best for morning photography. Other hikes & photo galleries in Canon City and Fremont County: Fremont County (Roads Less Traveled) Skyline Drive Rafting In The Royal Gorge Texas Creek Cotopaxi Western Fremont County Hayden Pass
	One self-portrait. My fantasy football shirt doesn't look too bad. Lastly, special thanks to Ark Collective Backpacks for this really handy backpack. You can check them out online at www.arkcollective.com. If you enjoy my website, let's stay connected on Facebook ... ColoradoGuy.com on Facebook