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Tunnel Drive Trail Head
4.8 ★★★★★ 598 Google reviews · Running trail in Cañon City, Colorado · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Mixed
- Distance
- 33 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Tunnel Drive Trail Head's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Visitor access point to a paved riverside path leading to rocky tunnels & mountain views.
What runners say about Tunnel Drive Trail Head
“The views were breathtaking and the trail was well maintained.”
“The trail is scenic, peaceful, and perfect for anyone who enjoys walking and exploring nature.”
“Keep in mind that there is no shade beyond the "long tunnel", so bring water even though it's only a mi or and back; dehydration sneaks up quickly.”
“Top notch views of the Arkansas river, while hiking an easy family friendly trail.”
Top notch views of the Arkansas river, while hiking an easy family friendly trail. Dogs on leash are allowed. The views of the tunnels are absolutely stunning. Photo ops are plenty! The mountain wind that flows through the long tunnel is pure perfection. If I could trap the feeling in a jar forever I would.
Very nice trail with a difficult beginning being steep uphill. It levels out mostly once you're at the top. Lots of cacti along the sides. The tunnels were very cool to see and the views from the top were also very nice. We went to the long tunnel and the walked back. Free to enter and there's parking.
Great way to get your blood pumping. The initial incline is steep, but flattens out at the top for the duration of the trail. There are also benches along the way to rest & soak up the views. Be sure to bring water - you will be exposed to the sun (minus being inside the tunnels), so it can get hot for dogs (& humans).
This was an incredible trail! It's rated easy, and maybe locals have no trouble, but we got pretty winded climbing at the beginning. After getting up to the trail level, it was a very easy going trail. Definitely worth the views! Trail was dry and very well maintained. It was our favorite adventure of the day!
Trail conditions & character
“The tunnels are only about 10 minutes into the walk, and the views of the canyon and train are amazing.”
“Fairly steep incline at the start of the hike that made us very aware that we are from a lower elevation haha but it was manageable and the trail leveled out.”
“There is a vault toilet at the trailhead and benches to relax at along the trail.”
“Be sure to bring water - you will be exposed to the sun (minus being inside the tunnels), so it can get hot for dogs (& humans).”
“You have to hike about 300 yards on a paved trail that is a little steep, but once you're past that it's all level.”
“You have to hike about 300 yards on a paved trail that is a little steep, but once you're past that it's all level.”
“Keep in mind that there is no shade beyond the "long tunnel", so bring water even though it's only a mi or and back; dehydration sneaks up quickly.”
“33 mile you go up and then through the tunnels.”
Plan your run at Tunnel Drive Trail Head
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceMixed — more than one surface along the route, so check the segment you plan to run
- Distance33 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit. Long enough for a real long run.
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websiteroyalgorgeregion.com
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Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
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