If you’ve ever dreamed of standing face-to-face with a T. rex or testing your courage on a swaying rope bridge above dinosaur tracks, then you’re in for a Jurassic-sized treat. Tucked away in the scenic hills near Cañon City, Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience is where science meets wild, roaring fun—with a side of Rocky Mountain air.
This isn’t your typical dusty museum with bones behind glass. Nope—here, you walk among towering animatronic dinosaurs, try your hand at fossil digs, and even scale high ropes with a panoramic view of ancient Colorado. Whether you’re wrangling grandkids, reliving your own dinosaur obsession, or just seeking something unusual near the Royal Gorge, this place is the real dino-deal.
What We Love
Roaring Giants Come to Life
Along the outdoor Dinosaur Wild Walk trail, life-sized, moving dinosaurs growl, blink, and stomp as you stroll by. It’s thrilling and surprisingly lifelike—you half expect one to chase you down the path (don’t worry, they’re all bark and no bite).
Ropes Course With a Prehistoric Twist
For adventurous souls, the multi-level ropes course towers above the park, complete with swaying bridges and a bird’s-eye view of dinosaur country. Younger guests have their own pint-sized version, making it a blast for all ages.
Fossil Dig & Discovery Lab
Channel your inner paleontologist at the hands-on dig pit, where kids and curious adults alike can uncover replica fossils. Indoors, the Discovery Lab showcases real specimens from Colorado’s fossil-rich soil—and the staff is full of fun facts.
Family Photo Goldmines
There’s a giant dinosaur skull just begging to be climbed on, life-sized replicas perfect for silly group shots, and even a T. rex bursting through a wall. It’s impossible not to snap a few keepers.
Mini Museum With Mega Cool Stuff
Inside, you’ll find actual dinosaur bones, 3D exhibits, and interactive stations that turn learning into pure play. It’s compact but cleverly curated to entertain both casual visitors and dino-geeks.
Atmosphere & Setting
Perched on a hillside just west of the Royal Gorge Bridge, the Dinosaur Experience blends natural beauty with playful spectacle. You’ll hear chirping birds and the occasional dinosaur roar as you meander gravel trails lined with native wildflowers and prehistoric beasts. The buildings are modern-rustic with a family-friendly layout that’s easy to navigate. On sunny days, the whole park has a festival-like energy—especially when the dinos start “breathing.”
Value (Is It Worth It?)
Absolutely. General admission hovers around $15–$20 depending on age, with combo packages for the ropes course and museum extras. You can easily spend 2–3 hours here—longer if you pack a picnic or dive deep into the exhibits. It’s ideal for families, road-trippers, and travelers combining it with Royal Gorge Bridge visits. And with no need to book far ahead, it’s a great spontaneous detour.
Other Considerations
There’s plenty of free parking and easy highway access, though expect a bit of uphill walking on gravel trails. Sunscreen and hats are a must for the outdoor exhibits, and sneakers will serve you better than sandals if you’re tackling the ropes. The main indoor areas are climate-controlled, wheelchair accessible, and offer clean restrooms and a dino-themed gift shop. A small snack bar offers kid-friendly fare—think popcorn, soda, and ice cream treats.
This Dino Daytrip Is a Roaring Success
Whether you’re here to marvel, climb, or dig, the Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience delivers a unique mix of thrills, science, and Colorado sunshine. It’s an unforgettable way to time-travel—without ever leaving the present.
Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience
📍 44895 W US Highway 50, Cañon City, CO 81212-9768