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After turning left on US 50 towards Canon City, I came across the main entrance to Royal Gorge. This was about to be one of the few semi - let downs for the trip. I should clarify that it is not a let down because of the beauty of the gorge. But, because it is a tourist trap. The ride in is surrounded by tourist attractions, more like Six Flags than a canyon. To be fair, it did get better, and I understand that you have to do what you have to do to get people to stop. It would be a great place to take kids, there are train rides and amusements scattered around. But, I am on the bike, seeking adventure....my thrills are riding on two wheels, leaning  over and seeing the country, not riding other mechanical wonders.
As I pulled up to the main entrance, there were cars everywhere. In fact, it was pretty much full! I should mention the site is under Canon City’s jurisdiction, and is not a state or national park. Overall, it was clean, but the cost to get in was $21 dollars... ouch!!!!! I opted not to enter the actual park, but did snag a shot.. from one of the free overlooks...that leave you wanting more.
It was getting pretty warm again, but I noticed afternoon storms building, something I would get used to as I rode! I did take several pictures, they are posted in the photo gallery, instead of on this page!
I left the Gorge, and had intended to ride US 50 West, but after riding a few miles, I saw another sign that said Royal Gorge -South Entrance. I was hoping for a better, closer view, without all the tourist attractions! It was several miles in, and the road was not well maintained. As I neared the south side, I caught up with another bike with a couple on it. We dodged gravel, pot holes and a car or two as we pulled up to the entrance gate. Cost $21 dollars....but if we left within and hour, we would get $7 dollars back!... what the heck? So we rode in and parked. We did find out we could ride across the bridge, it would appear things were getting better from a biking standpoint!
I walked across the bridge with the couple from Iowa. We took pictures and as they headed to another look out point, I decided to ride across. It was windy, but the views were good. I managed to spend enough time doing this, that I didn’t want to ride on that night. A trip to my friend’s house in Penrose was on the b ooks..wow, a decision!!! Its amazing how nice people are when you are on a bike. I handed my camera to some people standing there, and they were nice enough to take some shots....thanks!!!
I had noticed my throttle grip was getting loose with all the roll-ons and turns I was making. I stopped in Canon City to get some glue and called my friend to let him know I was coming by for the nite.
We ate dinner that nite at a place called Mr C’s Restaurant and Lounge in Penrose. I had a good steak, and they have a variety of food on the menu!!! I had decided to go to Mesa Verde the next morning.....my “turn left” was going to get even better!!! read more....
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