Plan Ahead, Mom! 7 Colorado Adventures You’ll Want to Book Now for Summer 2026
Listen, I know it’s pumpkin spice season. Your kids are barely back in school, and you just wrangled everyone into Halloween costumes. But trust me—now is the time to start thinking about next summer’s family getaway. Because while you’re sipping cider, the coolest Colorado adventures are already filling up.
If you’re dreaming of mountains, sunshine, and wide-open spaces (read: places where your kids can burn off energy and maybe learn something), then put Cañon City, Colorado at the top of your list. It’s the kind of place where dinosaurs roamed, gold was struck, and rivers are still wild.
Here’s how to plan the kind of summer trip your kids will rave about—and that you’ll actually enjoy too.
1. Raft the Arkansas River with Echo Canyon River Expeditions
Let’s start with the splashiest part of the trip: white water rafting.
Whether your crew includes fearless tweens or slightly nervous adults (hi, it’s me), has Echo Canyon River Expeditions rafting trips that fit every comfort level. They’re known for top-tier guides, epic scenery, and trips that are safe and fun.
The Arkansas River flows right through Cañon City and offers everything from gentle Class II floats to exhilarating Class IV runs through the Royal Gorge. You’ll get soaked, laugh a lot, and come away with brag-worthy stories—and maybe some matching family photos in helmets.
Pro tip: Book a morning trip before the sun heats up and the river gets busier. You’ll thank yourself.
2. See Real Dinosaur Footprints on Skyline Drive
Yep, real dinosaur tracks. Skyline Drive is a narrow ridge road right outside of town, and it features visible dino footprints embedded in the cliffside.
It’s a quick but unforgettable drive with panoramic views, and there’s a picnic area nearby if you want to stretch your legs (and your lunch). It’s also the perfect “yes, it’s educational” activity for your little paleontologists.
3. Strike Gold in a Real Mining Town
Cañon City has roots in the Wild West, and you can explore them at the Royal Gorge Regional Museum or hop over to Cripple Creek—a living ghost town just an hour away. Families can tour old gold mines, learn how people lived in the 1800s, and even pan for gold. Spoiler: it’s harder than it looks.
Kids get to play prospector, and adults get a little appreciation for modern plumbing. Win-win.
4. Ride the Rails (and Eat the Donuts) on Pikes Peak Cog Railway
A short drive from Cañon City, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway takes you 14,115 feet up to the top of the world. The scenery is unbeatable, the ride is surprisingly peaceful, and at the summit, you can indulge in world-famous high-altitude donuts.
If your kids are tired of walking trails, this is a great way to enjoy big mountain views without breaking a sweat.
5. Experience the Royal Gorge from Every Angle
The Royal Gorge Bridge is the highest suspension bridge in the U.S. and walking across it is both awe-inspiring and only mildly terrifying (in a good way!).
You can also take a gondola ride over the gorge or, if your crew is extra brave, zipline across it. For something more chill, book a ride on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad for a scenic, slow-paced journey through the canyon—complete with onboard lunch and AC.
6. Glamp Under the Stars (with Heat, A/C, and Indoor Plumbing, Thank You Very Much)
Camping is great in theory… until someone has to pee at 2 a.m. or realizes they forgot the tent poles. Enter: glamping.
At places like Echo Canyon River Expeditions’ Royal Gorge Cabins, you can stay in safari-style tents or modern luxury cabins with:
It’s the kind of “roughing it” that still lets you enjoy a hot shower and your morning coffee in peace.
Bonus: many glamping locations have multiple tents or cabins on site, so it’s perfect for groups or family reunions. Bring the grandparents!
7. Explore the Great Outdoors Without Leaving Town
Cañon City is surrounded by natural beauty—and you don’t need to be a hardcore hiker to enjoy it. Some family-friendly faves:
There’s also downtown Cañon City for cute shops, local restaurants, and summer events like concerts and festivals.
Start Booking Now—Your Future Self Will Thank You
From rafting the Arkansas with Echo Canyon River Expeditions to stargazing in a glamping tent, Cañon City, Colorado delivers all the unplugged, memory-making magic a summer vacation should. And if you start planning now, you’ll have your pick of prime glampsites, rafting trips, and rail tickets.
So go ahead—dream big, book early, and get ready for a Colorado summer your family will never forget.
