Redemption Trail in Cañon City, Colorado

Redemption Trail is a challenging and scenic hiking and mountain biking trail located in Cañon City, offering sweeping canyon views and a rugged outdoor experience just minutes from downtown.

Known for its steep climbs and technical sections, Redemption Trail is popular with experienced hikers and mountain bikers seeking elevation gain, panoramic views, and a more demanding route in the Royal Gorge region. The trail winds through classic southern Colorado high-desert terrain, with rocky switchbacks, exposed ridgelines, and dramatic overlooks of the Arkansas River valley.

Redemption Trail is best used from spring through fall, when trail conditions are ideal and temperatures are moderate.

Dogs are permitted on leash, though the narrow tread and elevation changes make this trail best suited for confident outdoor enthusiasts. This trail is often combined with nearby routes to create longer loop options for advanced users.

Vegetation along the trail includes piñon pine, juniper, scrub oak, and native grasses, while higher elevations open to expansive views of canyon walls, rolling foothills, and distant mountain ranges. Despite its proximity to town, Redemption Trail delivers a remote, backcountry feel that highlights the raw beauty of Colorado’s canyon country.

For those seeking a challenging hike or technical mountain bike ride in Cañon City, Redemption Trail offers rewarding climbs, unforgettable views, and a true test of endurance.