Finding things to do in a rural area during winter can be a challenge, but Canon City, nestled in the heart of Fremont County, offers a delightful mix of cozy charm and scenic, winter activities.
From breathtaking outdoor experiences to unique local gems, this small town knows how to make the colder months memorable.
Explore or relax in Canon City with these winter activities below to keep you entertained all season long while you’re visiting us.
1. Explore the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park
Photo Credit: Royal Gorge Bridge and Park
Winter transforms the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park into a serene wonderland, offering stunning views of snow-dusted cliffs and the Arkansas River below. Winter’s lighter crowds make it the perfect time to soak in the beauty without the bustle of peak tourist seasons.
Enjoy these must-try activities:
- Walk across the iconic suspension bridge
- Ride the gondola for panoramic winter vistas
- Experience the adrenaline rush of the Royal Rush Skycoaster
Whether you’re after peaceful scenery or high-flying thrills, the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is a top winter destination in Canon City.
2. Stroll on the Riverwalk Trail
The Riverwalk Trail offers a peaceful escape with serene winter scenery along the Arkansas River. People enjoy riding bikes, walking their dogs, and even fly fishing during the winter months.
You can also enjoy these activities during your visit:
- Take a leisurely walk or jog
- Admire the snow-dusted trees and quiet river views
- Watch local wildlife, like deer or birds, in their winter habitat
Tip: Dress in layers and wear sturdy, weather-appropriate footwear to stay comfortable in cooler temperatures. The Riverwalk Trail is an ideal way to experience Canon City’s natural beauty during the winter months.
3. Sip a Warm Beverage at a Local Cafe
Warm up this winter at Canon City’s inviting coffee shops, each offering a cozy atmosphere and delightful seasonal beverages:
- Cafe Belay Coffee Roasters: Enjoy handcrafted drinks like their in-house chai or a classic latte. Pair your beverage with a freshly baked blueberry muffin for a perfect treat.
- The Bean Pedaler: Savor specialty coffees such as the Irish Mocha or Snickerdoodle latte in a unique setting that combines a coffee shop with a bike shop
- City On A Hill Coffee & Espresso: Indulge in their signature warm donuts alongside a freshly brewed cup of coffee.
- Jump Start Java: Grab a quick cup of their popular Aztec Mocha or a classic drip coffee from this convenient drive-thru spot
- Happy Endings Caboose Cafe: Experience a unique ambiance in a renovated 1920s caboose while enjoying espresso drinks and scratch-baked goodies. Try the cinnamon rolls!
Each of these cafes provides a warm haven during the colder months, perfect for enjoying a spiced latte or hot chocolate while embracing the local charm of Canon City.
4. Wine Tasting at The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey
Nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Wet Mountains, The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey in Cañon City offers a cozy retreat during the winter months. Their tasting room provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, complete with a toasty fireplace where you can sip on their award-winning wines.
Here are some wine-tasting activities to Enjoy:
- Sample Award-Winning Wines: Indulge in a flight tasting of their celebrated selections, including rich Merlots and crisp Chardonnays
- VIP Wine Tasting Experience: Enhance your visit with a VIP tasting, featuring a private host and a curated selection of wines paired with artisan cheeses and fruits
- Explore the Gift Shop: Browse a variety of unique items, from exquisite crystal to gourmet offerings like 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Modenese Balsamic Vinegar
Tip: The tasting room operates daily, with hours from 10 am to 6 pm Monday through Saturday, and 12 pm to 5 pm on Sunday. From January through March, closing time is 5 pm. Last call for tastings is 30 minutes before closing.
A winter afternoon at The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey offers a delightful experience for both friends and family, combining exceptional wines with the serene beauty of Cañon City.
5. Shop for Unique Gifts in Downtown Canon City
Downtown Cañon City offers a delightful array of local shops, perfect for discovering unique holiday gifts while supporting small businesses. Here are some must-visit stores:
- Tailored West: A fashion boutique specializing in handcrafted designs for women, offering a selection of clothing, footwear, and accessories
- Kaleidoscope Inspiration: A collaborative boutique featuring over 100 artisans and crafters, providing a variety of gifts, including home décor, jewelry, and gourmet food products
- Cheryl’s Book Nook: A cozy bookstore offering a range of used and rare books, perfect for literary enthusiasts seeking unique finds
- Driftwood & Clay: A makers market and plant house showcasing handmade items, art, and a selection of plants, ideal for distinctive gifts.
- Gift Chateau: A 6,000 sq. ft. retail store featuring handcrafted, vintage, and new items from nearly 70 different artists and vendors, offering a diverse selection for any occasion
- The Artists’ Gallery: A cooperative gallery presenting unique gifts and fine art by 40 local artists, including pottery, jewelry, and wearable art
- Vintage Revival: A boutique filled with refinished antique furniture and vintage-chic décor, offering supplies for your own “vintage revival” projects.
Exploring these shops not only helps you find one-of-a-kind gifts but also supports the vibrant local economy of Cañon City. And this is just a short list! There are plenty of unique shops worth visiting in both Canon City and Florence!
6. Take a Scenic Drive Up Skyline Drive to Stargaze
Skyline Drive offers breathtaking views during the day, but it truly shines as a stargazing destination on clear winter nights, even with a little light pollution. Here’s how to make the most of your visit:
- Drive Slowly and Safely: The narrow, winding road is an adventure in itself, with stunning vistas of Canon City by day and a sky full of stars at night.
- Stargazing: Bring a blanket, hot drinks, and a telescope or binoculars to enjoy the sparkling constellations.
- Winter Wildlife: Keep an eye out for nocturnal wildlife along the way.
Tips: Dress in warm layers, including hats and gloves, to stay comfortable in the crisp night air. Use flashlights sparingly to preserve your night vision and fully enjoy the stars.
Skyline Drive in winter offers a peaceful, magical experience that’s well worth the trip. If you’d like to experience dark skies territories like never before, Westcliffe, Colorado is just a short drive from Canon City, and well worth the visit!
7. Relax at Desert Reef Hot Springs
Photo Credit: Desert Reef Hot Spring
Just a short drive from Cañon City, Desert Reef Hot Springs in Florence, Colorado offers a tranquil winter retreat. Immerse yourself in natural mineral pools, with water sourced from an artesian well over 1,000 feet deep, providing a soothing experience amid the crisp winter air.
Here’s how to enjoy your visit to Desert Reef:
- Soak in the Main Pool: Measuring 36′ x 50′, the main pool is filled with naturally heated mineral water, offering relaxation with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Private Pools: For a more secluded experience, reserve one of the private pools available on-site.
- Overnight Stays: Enhance your visit by staying overnight in a renovated Airstream or Tiny Home, each thoughtfully decorated. Some lodging options even include soaking access during open pool hours.
Additional Visitor Tips:
- Reservations Required: To ensure a serene environment, Desert Reef limits the number of guests. Reservations are required, and walk-ins are not accepted.
- Clothing Policies: The resort is clothing-optional during standard hours, with specific times when swimsuits are required. Review their policies before your visit to ensure a comfortable experience.
- Operating Hours: Desert Reef is closed on Tuesdays. Operating hours vary throughout the week, so check their website for the most current information.
Desert Reef Hot Springs provides a unique winter escape near Cañon City, combining the therapeutic benefits of natural hot springs with the beauty of Colorado’s winter landscape.
8. Discover Local Art Galleries
Cañon City and Florence, boast a vibrant arts scene, perfect for indoor exploration during the winter months. Visiting local art galleries not only provides cultural enrichment but also offers opportunities to find unique, handmade gifts for the holidays.
Here are some notable galleries to explore:
- The Artists’ Gallery: Located at 416 Main Street, this cooperative gallery features fine art and unique gifts crafted by 40 local artists, including pottery, jewelry, art cards, and wearable art.
- Medora: Situated at 415 Main Street, Medora is a fine art gallery offering original artworks, handmade jewelry, decor, and gifts created by local artists.
- The Blue Spruce: located in Florence by the Rialto Theater, this is a long-standing artist gallery in Florence.
Exploring these galleries allows you to immerse yourself in the local art scene and discover distinctive pieces that make perfect holiday gifts. Supporting these venues also contributes to the thriving artistic community in Cañon City.
9. Enjoy a Meal at Local Restaurants with Winter Specials
Cañon City offers a variety of dining options perfect for enjoying warm, hearty meals during the winter months.
Here are some local favorites to consider:
- Fremont Provisions: A scratch-food kitchen emphasizing locally sourced ingredients
- Nirvana Culinary Paradise: Authentic North Indian cuisine with options for various dietary preferences
- The Owl Cigar Store: Renowned for classic American fare, particularly hamburgers and cheeseburgers
- Big Burger World: Known for generous burgers and classic American fare
- DiRito’s Italian Restaurant: Traditional Italian dishes in a cozy atmosphere
- The Lost Cajun: Authentic Cajun dishes, including gumbo and jambalaya
- 8 Mile Bar & Grill: American dishes in a relaxed atmosphere
- Whitewater Bar & Grill: Barbecued meats and classic sides
- China Garden Restaurant: Chinese cuisine with a variety of dishes
- El Caporal Mexican Restaurant: Mexican cuisine with award-winning dishes.
These establishments provide a range of culinary experiences, from comfort food to international cuisine, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every palate during the colder season. But there are so many other wonderful restaurants to enjoy in the area!
10. Enjoy the Regional Winter Events
Photo Credit: Royal Gorge Bridge and Park
Winter in Canon City comes alive with dazzling light displays and holiday experiences that are perfect for families and visitors of all ages.
Here are three must-see events:
- Parade of Lights: Held annually in downtown Canon City, this festive event features creative floats decked out in twinkling lights, spreading holiday cheer throughout the community.
- Bridge of Lights at the Royal Gorge: Experience the Royal Gorge Bridge illuminated with thousands of colorful lights, creating a magical winter wonderland. Visitors can drive across the bridge and enjoy the stunning views of the gorge glowing in the night.
- Santa Express Train: Hop on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad for a magical trip through the Royal Gorge and to the North Pole!
Tip: Dress warmly and bring a thermos of hot cocoa to enhance the festive atmosphere. These events are a perfect way to embrace the holiday spirit and create unforgettable memories.
Make Your Winters Memorable with A Step Back Inn
Canon City blends small-town charm with a variety of unique winter activities, from scenic trails and cozy cafes to local art and festive light displays. In this little charming town, there is much adventure or relaxation to be had to make the colder months memorable.
Stay awhile and enjoy the season’s magic at A Step Back Inn—you’ll find Canon City has everything you need for a perfect winter escape.
