Fossil remains of dinosaurs have been found less than three miles from Royal Gorge Bridge. Dating back 100-200 million years ago, the fossil bones were first discovered in this area in 1876. Also found in this area were the Allosaurus, Stegosaurus and Comptosaurus. It takes nature a long, long time to make a canyon.
Geologists now believe that the gorge was entirely accomplished through the slow task of erosion.
The first 'tourists' to visit the Royal Gorge were the American Indians. In sheltered canyons and mountain parks of the region, many western Indian tribes were known to camp and hunt. Spanish missionaries were familiar with the Royal Gorge area as early as 1642, and early fur traders and trappers are thought to have visited the region during the 1700's. Among the first settlers of Canon City in the 1860's were Anson Rudd and his wife. Rudd served in many public offices, beginning with being the first sheriff.