Best Hikes Around Colorado Springs
We've rounded up the top 25 hiking & biking trails in Colorado Springs. Whether you prefer leisurely strolls beneath towering rock formations or challenging hikes and rides through alpine forests, we have the trail for you.
TOP 25 HIKING & BIKING TRAILS
1. Garden of the Gods Park: Rated the #1 U.S. park by TripAdvisor, you’ll find both paved and gravel trails that wind through magnificent red rock formations and offer stunning views of Pikes Peak. Off-leash dog area between Rock Ledge Ranch & 30th St. Easy
2. Red Rock Canyon Open Space: A variety of trails wind along the canyons and ridges of red rock and provide great views of Garden of the Gods. These trails connect to many other hiking trails in the area. There are two off-leash dog loops and a free-ride bike park. Easy to Moderate
3. Cheyenne Mountain State Park: Just south of Colorado Springs you can explore nature’s diversity on 2,700 acres with prairie-to-peak ecosystems on 20 miles of hiking and biking trails. Dogs are welcome. Entrance fee. Easy to Moderate
4. Palmer Park: 737-acre wildlife preserve offering hiking and biking on a mesa overlooking the city. Enclosed dog park as well as a separate off-leash area with incredible views. Easy to Moderate
5. Austin Bluffs Open Space: This area is known for unique rock formations created by the most recent geological uplift. The 585 acres can be accessed via two trailheads. Easy to Moderate
6. Bear Creek Dog Park: Located near the foothills, this 25-acre off-leash park provides dogs and their owners with a variety of hiking options; great amenities such as shade, creek, small-dog area, agility course and restrooms. Named a top-10 US dog park and considered to be among the region's finest.Easy
7. Fountain Creek Park: View wildlife, marshes, streams and ponds as you hike these gentle and shaded trails. Easy
8. Midland Trail: This 5-mile trail runs from the town of Manitou Springs to America the Beautiful Park in Colorado Springs; some parts of the trail are on streets. Easy
9. Barr Trail: 12-mile (one-way) hike gaining 7,800 vertical feet from Manitou Springs to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak - America's Mountain. Moderate to Difficult
10. Palmer Loop Trail: (Also known as Red Rock Palmer Loop Trail) A 6-mile loop hike of moderate difficulty among the pine forest with spectacular views, shade and a small waterfall. Moderate
11. Intemann Trail: This new 3-mile trail (round-trip) is part of the Intemann Trail and provides access to a summit that was only recently open to the public. Moderate
12. Manitou Incline: For the ultimate workout tackle the 1-mile, 2,000-ft. vertical rise trail made from the track of a historic rail car line. Descend on lower 4 miles of Barr Trail. Difficult
13. Royal Gorge Park: Stare 1,000 feet into the famed Royal Gorge. Outdoor enthusiasts of all abilities will find plenty of options for overlooks, winding trails, and mountain biking. Easy to Moderate
14. Helen Hunt Falls: (Officially known as Silver Cascade Trail) This short trail offers a pleasant hike through the forest alongside a cascading stream and waterfall. Moderate