Browns Canyon National Monument
Designated in 2015, Browns Canyon protects 21,586 acres of stunning granite canyon wilderness along one of the most rafted rivers in the United States. Located between Salida and Buena Vista.
About the Monument
Established by President Obama in February 2015, Browns Canyon National Monument protects a spectacular granite canyon carved by the Arkansas River over millions of years. The monument is jointly managed by the BLM and US Forest Service.
The canyon is most famous as the premier whitewater rafting corridor in Colorado, with Class III-IV rapids that draw hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. But beyond rafting, the monument offers excellent hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, and camping in a wild, uncrowded setting.
Things to Do
Whitewater Rafting
The premier activity. Class III-IV rapids through the canyon are commercially guided daily in summer.
Hiking
Ruby Mountain Trail and other BLM trails provide access to canyon rim and river corridor views.
Fishing
The Arkansas River through the monument is designated Gold Medal trout fishing - some of the best in Colorado.
Wildlife
Bighorn sheep, golden eagles, mule deer, river otters, and black bears all inhabit the monument.
Camping
Several primitive and developed campsites along the river corridor. No reservations required for primitive sites.
Rock Climbing
Granite walls in the canyon offer climbing opportunities for experienced climbers.
Getting There
Between Salida and Buena Vista on US Hwy 285 - approximately 15 miles north of Salida
Monument Facts
Featured Adventure Partners
1 hour east of Salida - Royal Gorge region
Whitewater Rafting · Class IV-V
Royal Gorge Rafting
Expert-guided trips through the Royal Gorge
Expert-guided whitewater on the Arkansas River through the Royal Gorge (Class IV-V), 1 hour east of Salida. A bigger-water add-on to a Browns Canyon day. All gear included.
See 2027 Trip Dates
Zipline · Canyon Adventure
Royal Gorge Zipline Tours
Soar 1,200 feet above the Royal Gorge
Combine your rafting day with Colorado's most dramatic zipline - soaring over 1,200 feet above the gorge floor. Multiple courses. Open year-round.
Book Zipline Tours
Luxury Glamping · Lodging
Royal Gorge Vacation Rentals
Stay in canyon country
Yurts, Airstreams, and cabins near Cañon City - the perfect basecamp for multi-day Arkansas River adventures. Wake up surrounded by canyon wilderness.
Browse RentalsWorth the Drive - Royal Gorge Region
Raft Class IV-V rapids, zipline 1,200 feet above the canyon, dine at a local icon, or glamp under canyon walls. An easy day trip from Salida.
Royal Gorge Adventure Hub
The ultimate adventure hub - rafting, zipline, and lodging packages near Cañon City.
Whitewater Bar & Grill
Cañon City's premier dining experience - great food and drinks in a lively atmosphere.
Rooftop Social
Cañon City's rooftop bar and restaurant with stunning views - the perfect spot after a day of adventure.
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