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Print Friendly MapFor over 50 years, the Royal Gorge Scenic Railway, a miniature tourist train, took visitors from the Buckskin Joe Old West theme park (now closed) to the lip of the gorge, treating them to stunning views of the rugged valley and mountains. Today, that experience has been recreated for hikers and bikers, making use of the old railroad grade and redecked trestle bridges. The trail starts from the parking area just off County Road 3A and follows the gentle railroad grade to the overlook, where users can feast their eyes on the Arkansas River, the Royal Gorge Bridge and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. From the end of the trail, users can continue along Royal Gorge Park's other single track trails, but note that they are rated intermediate to difficult.
A couple of points to note before getting out on the trail: the trail is on an easement so please respect private property and remain on the trail. The Point Alta Vista Trail has a natural surface that gets muddy when it rains, and it is not recommended for hiking or biking in those conditions. Also, leashed dogs are welcome but some may find the bridge decking challenging to walk on.
From Cañon City, take US-50 west, then turn left onto County Road 3A. Drive 1.25 miles to the parking lot on the right side. You'll find a trail map and a pedestrian gate leading to the trail.
Nice trail for a walk or bike ride if you have an hour or two. The trail ends at an observation point that extends over the canyon for a nice view of the royal gorge bridge and the river canyon. It is an easy bike ride except for the detour around a collapsed bridge which is more like a single track. If not comfortable riding single track, jump up on the road until the road meets up with the trail on the other side of the bridge. Stay on the trail to avoid flats caused by cactus and sand burrs.
Parking area is easy to miss, look for Royal Gorge Ranch & Resort sign which is at the first big curve south of US-50 highway.
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