2.9
(5)
92
hikers
01:46
6.86km
30m
Hiking
Hike the easy 4.3-mile Arkansas Riverwalk Loop in Cañon City, enjoying river views, cottonwood forests, and wildlife.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
John Griffin Park
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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471 m
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
6.86 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
6.35 km
234 m
232 m
Surfaces
6.51 km
212 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 9 May
27°C
8°C
12 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 27.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Yes, the trail is considered easy and largely flat, making it suitable for most skill levels and families. It features a wide, hard-packed crushed gravel surface, which is easy to navigate. There is one short, steep climb mentioned, but overall it's very accessible.
The terrain primarily consists of a hard-packed, crushed gravel surface, making it smooth and easy to walk on. It largely follows an old railroad bed, so it's wide and mostly flat. Some sections are even wheelchair and stroller-friendly. Within John Griffin Park, you can choose between the River Trail and the Bluff Trail, offering slightly different experiences.
You'll enjoy diverse scenery, including the flowing Arkansas River, thick cottonwood forests, and native wetlands. Wildlife is abundant, with common sightings of various bird species like Lazuli Buntings and Great Blue Herons, as well as deer and Canadian Geese. You might also catch glimpses of the Royal Gorge Train and the distant Royal Gorge Bridge.
The trail connects to several parks, including Centennial Park and John Griffin Park, which serve as excellent access points. Parking is typically available at these parks, providing convenient starting points for your hike.
Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and practice Leave No Trace principles by cleaning up after your pet.
The trail is open year-round, allowing you to enjoy its natural beauty in any season. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer provides lush greenery. Even in winter, it can be a beautiful and accessible option.
No, there are typically no fees or permits required to access the Arkansas Riverwalk Loop or to enter John Griffin Regional Park. It's a publicly accessible multi-use trail.
Yes, the route connects to several other trails and parks. Notably, it provides a connection to the Tunnel Drive Trail, a narrow path that leads through three tunnels of solid granite, offering impressive views of the Arkansas River and railroad. The route also passes through sections of the Arkansas River Trail and the Bluff Trail.
Yes, the trail is well-equipped with amenities. You'll find park benches and picnic tables strategically placed along the route, providing opportunities to rest, enjoy a snack, and take in the surroundings. John Griffin Park also features fitness stations.
Many sections of the Arkansas Riverwalk Loop are indeed wheelchair and stroller-friendly due to its wide, hard-packed crushed gravel surface and generally flat profile. This makes it a great option for visitors with varying mobility needs.
A unique extension is the connection to the Tunnel Drive Trail. This narrow path takes you through three tunnels carved into solid granite, offering spectacular views of the Arkansas River and the adjacent railroad. It's a fantastic way to extend your outing and experience a different perspective of the area.