Skyline Drive

Skyline Drive is one of Colorado's most unique and thrilling driving experiences—a narrow road built atop a razor-thin hogback ridge that rises 800 feet above Canon City. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this engineering marvel offers panoramic 360-degree views that stretch from the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to Pikes Peak. The road was constructed in 1905 by inmates from the Colorado Territorial Prison under the supervision of Warden Thomas Tynan. Using only picks, shovels, and manual labor, the prisoners carved this remarkable 2.5-mile route along the crest of a Dakota Hogback formation. The project was completed in just two years and has remained a beloved local landmark ever since. The one-way route begins on the west side of town and winds along the ridge crest, with drop-offs on both sides that can exceed 100 feet. While the road is paved and safe for careful drivers, those with a fear of heights may find the experience intense. The narrow width means there's no passing, and stopping is only permitted at designated pull-offs. One of Skyline Drive's most remarkable features is the preserved dinosaur tracks visible in the sandstone. Look for the interpretive signs that mark locations where theropod (carnivorous) dinosaur footprints have been preserved for over 100 million years. These trace fossils date to the Cretaceous period and provide a tangible connection to the prehistoric creatures that once roamed this landscape. The drive is free and open year-round, weather permitting. It closes during icy conditions for safety. Plan 20-30 minutes for the drive, plus additional time for photo stops at the designated pull-offs. Sunset and sunrise offer particularly stunning photography conditions when the light paints the valley below in golden hues. Important considerations: The road is not suitable for large RVs, trailers, or vehicles with low clearance. Motorcyclists should exercise caution on the exposed ridge. Strong winds can make the drive challenging, especially for high-profile vehicles. The entrance is located off Highway 50 on the west side of Canon City, well-marked with directional signs.