Slow-smoked BBQ, legendary margaritas, live bands every Saturday, and outdoor games galore: discover why Whitewater Bar & Grill has been voted #1 for a decade.
There's a reason Whitewater Bar & Grill has been voted Cañon City's best bar and grill for 10 consecutive years. Located right at the base of Royal Gorge Rafting and Zipline Tours, this rustic Western-style venue offers the perfect blend of incredible food, cold drinks, and Colorado hospitality.
The Food: Smoked In-House Daily
Everything at Whitewater is made fresh, and all BBQ is smoked in-house daily. The standout dishes have earned legendary status among locals and visitors alike:
The Slopper Burger: A Southern Colorado trademark! An open-faced burger smothered in homemade pork green chili, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and tomatoes. It's messy, it's delicious, and it's absolutely worth the napkins.
BBQ Brisket Sandwich: Customers call it "to die for." Slow-smoked brisket piled high with our signature BBQ sauce on a toasted bun.
BBQ Nachos: "Easily the best in Colorado" according to regulars. Tortilla chips covered with cheese, Anna's Famous Baked Beans, BBQ brisket, sour cream, chopped onions, and fresh jalapeños.
Texas Potato: A massive baked potato topped with butter, cheese, brisket, sour cream, and BBQ sauce. It easily feeds two!
Rocky Mountain Oysters: A Colorado tradition! Battered "bull fries" served with dipping sauce. When in Colorado...
More Than Just Great Food
Whitewater isn't just a restaurant; it's an experience. The outdoor area features:
- Sand Volleyball Courts: Multiple courts for pickup games
- Axe Throwing: $10 for 5 minutes of throwing fun
- Kids Playground: Perfect for families with young adventurers
- Private Cabanas with Fire Pits: Reserve for groups
- Corn Hole & Horseshoes: Classic outdoor games
- Live Bands Every Saturday Night: Local and regional acts
The Drinks
The margaritas at Whitewater are legendary: frozen or on the rocks, they keep guests coming back. The full bar features Colorado craft beers on tap from local breweries, plus a complete selection of cocktails, spirits, and wines.
Family and Dog Friendly
Kids are welcome and entertained with the playground and games. Dogs are welcome too on the outdoor patio. It's the kind of place where everyone feels at home.
Location & Hours
Address: 45045 Hwy 50 W, Cañon City, CO 81212 Phone: (719) 269-1009 Hours: Mon & Thu-Sun: 11am-9pm | Fri-Sat: til 10pm | Closed Tue-Wed
The restaurant is located directly at the Royal Gorge Rafting base, making it the perfect spot for lunch after a morning on the river or dinner before heading to your cabin or glamping site.
Pro Tips
- The Triple Decker Burger with pulled pork and coleslaw is a local favorite
- Get the Chili Cheese Fries as a side: customers say they're "awesome"
- Saturday nights with live music get crowded: arrive early for the best seats
- Order online for pickup if you're in a hurry between adventures
- The Spinach Strawberry Salad with Colorado goat cheese is surprisingly excellent
