Explore 11 scenic hikes in Colorado Springs with trails for every hiker, plus tips for a perfect adventure.
Strap on your boots and grab a water bottle – it’s time to tackle the ultimate outdoor playground of Colorado Springs! With hikes that weave through the Garden of the Gods and ascend the iconic Pikes Peak, every step promises an Instagram-worthy view.
And the best part? There’s a trail for every type of trekker, from those looking for a casual stroll to those itching for a challenging climb.
Imagine walking trails that lead you through a landscape so vivid, you’ll swear it’s been filtered for maximum awe. With every hike, you’ll not only connect with nature but also cross paths with the locals – and by locals, we mean the deer, the foxes, and if you’re lucky, a soaring eagle or two.
But that’s not all – we’re throwing in pro-level tips to make sure your hiking adventure is top-notch. We’ll help you ace the altitude, pick the perfect gear, and even how to high-five the wildlife (okay, maybe just a respectful nod from afar).
So, are you ready to conquer the scenic heights and bask in the wild beauty of Colorado Springs? Let’s dive in!
Hikes in Garden of the Gods Park
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods Park is a must-visit for anyone interested in hiking and nature.
The park features over 15 miles of hiking trails, with breathtaking views of towering rock formations, towering cliffs, and stunning vistas.
The park is also home to a number of historic landmarks, including the famous Balance Rock and Siamese Twins formations.
Central Garden Trail
Trailhead: Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center
Round Trip Distance: 1.5 miles
The Central Garden Trail is a 1.5-mile loop that takes hikers through the heart of Garden of the Gods Park.
The trail winds through towering red rock formations and offers stunning views of Pikes Peak and the surrounding mountains.
This well-maintained and easy-to-follow trail is a great option for families with children or those looking for a leisurely hike.
Scenic Stops: Along the trail, hikers can see the famous Balance Rock and Siamese Twins formations, as well as other historic landmarks within the park.
Wildlife: Garden of the Gods is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and coyotes, which may be spotted along the trail.
Perkins Central Garden Trail
Trailhead: Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center
Round Trip Distance: 2.5 miles
The Perkins Central Garden Trail is a 2.5-mile loop that offers a more challenging hike through a variety of landscapes, including rocky outcroppings, forests, and grassy meadows.
This trail takes hikers through the heart of Garden of the Gods Park and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Scenic Stops: Along the way, hikers can see a variety of rock formations, historic landmarks, and wildlife within the park.
Wildlife: Garden of the Gods is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and coyotes, which may be spotted along the trail.
Hikes in Pikes Peak
Pikes Peak, located just outside of Colorado Springs, is one of the most iconic mountains in the state.
Standing at 14,114 feet, the peak is a popular destination for hikers, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the city below.
There are several ways to reach the summit, including hiking trails and a scenic drive.
Barr Trail
Trailhead: Barr Camp
Round Trip Distance: 13 miles
For those looking for a challenging hike, the Barr Trail is the way to go. The Barr Trail is a 13-mile trail that takes hikers to the summit of Pikes Peak.
This strenuous trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a popular destination for experienced hikers.
The trail gains a significant amount of elevation, but the views from the summit are well worth the effort.
Scenic Stops: Along the way, hikers can stop at various scenic overlooks to take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Wildlife: Pikes Peak is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and bighorn sheep, which may be spotted along the trail.
Crags Trail
Trailhead: Pikes Peak Highway
Round Trip Distance: 5 miles
The Crags Trail is a 5-mile round trip hike that takes hikers to the Crags, a series of rock formations near the summit of Pikes Peak.
This trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys and is a great option for those looking for a shorter hike.
Scenic Stops: Along the way, hikers can stop at various scenic overlooks to take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Wildlife: Pikes Peak is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and bighorn sheep, which may be spotted along the trail.
Hikes in North Cheyenne Canon Park
North Cheyenne Canon Park, located on the western edge of Colorado Springs, is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Starsmore Discovery Center Trail
Trailhead: Starsmore Discovery Center
Round Trip Distance: 1.5 miles
The Starsmore Discovery Center Trail is a 1.5-mile loop that takes hikers through a variety of landscapes within North Cheyenne Canon Park, including forests, meadows, and rocky outcroppings.
This trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys and is a great option for those looking for a peaceful walk with breathtaking views.
Scenic Stops: Along the way, hikers can stop at various scenic overlooks to take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Wildlife: North Cheyenne Canon Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and coyotes, which may be spotted along the trail.
Helen Hunt Falls Trail
Trailhead: North Cheyenne Canon Park
Round Trip Distance: 1.5 miles
The Helen Hunt Falls Trail is a 1.5-mile round trip hike that takes hikers to the base of the Helen Hunt Falls.
This trail is easy to follow and offers stunning views of the waterfall, which plunges over 100 feet into a rocky pool below.
This trail is also a great option for families with children, as it is relatively short and easy to navigate.
Scenic Stops: The highlight of this trail is the Helen Hunt Falls, which provides a breathtaking view of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape.
Wildlife: North Cheyenne Canon Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and coyotes, which may be spotted along the trail.
Hikes in Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Red Rock Canyon Open Space, located just west of Colorado Springs, is a popular destination for hikers, mountain bikers, and rock climbers.
The park features over 8 miles of trails, with stunning views of towering red rock formations and breathtaking vistas.
Intemann Trail
Trailhead: Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Round Trip Distance: 5.5 miles
The Intemann Trail is a 5.5-mile loop that takes hikers through a variety of landscapes within Red Rock Canyon Open Space, including forests, meadows, and rocky outcroppings.
This trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys and is a great option for those looking for a peaceful walk with breathtaking views.
Scenic Stops: Along the way, hikers can stop at various scenic overlooks to take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Wildlife: Red Rock Canyon Open Space is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and coyotes, which may be spotted along the trail.
Red Rock Canyon Loop Trail
Trailhead: Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Round Trip Distance: 3 miles
The Red Rock Canyon Loop Trail is a 3-mile loop that takes hikers through the heart of Red Rock Canyon Open Space.
This trail winds through towering red rock formations and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, making it a great option for families with children or those looking for a leisurely hike.
Scenic Stops: Along the trail, hikers can see a variety of rock formations and other scenic landmarks within Red Rock Canyon Open Space.
Wildlife: Red Rock Canyon Open Space is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and coyotes, which may be spotted along the trail.
Pro-level tips while hiking in Colorado Springs
Hiking in Colorado Springs can be a truly exhilarating experience, but it’s important to be prepared for the unique challenges of hiking in this high-altitude environment.
Here are some pro-level tips to help you make the most of your hiking experience in Colorado Springs:
Acclimate to the Altitude
Colorado Springs is located at an altitude of over 6,000 feet, which can be a shock to your body if you’re not used to it.
To help your body acclimate, it’s best to spend a few days in the area before starting any strenuous activities, such as hiking.
Hydrate
Dehydration is a common issue in high-altitude environments, so it’s important to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your hike.
It’s also a good idea to bring extra water with you, especially on longer hikes.
Wear the Right Clothing
In Colorado Springs, the weather can change quickly, so it’s important to be prepared for a variety of conditions.
Be sure to wear layers, as well as a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
It’s also a good idea to bring rain gear, as thunderstorms are common in the area during the summer months.
Use Sunscreen
The sun is stronger at high altitudes, so be sure to apply sunscreen before your hike to protect your skin from sunburn.
Know Your Limits
Colorado Springs is home to some challenging hikes, so it’s important to know your limits and choose a trail that is appropriate for your skill level.
Be sure to take breaks as needed and don’t push yourself too hard.
Respect Wildlife
Colorado Springs is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and coyotes.
If you encounter wildlife while hiking, it’s important to give them plenty of space and respect their territory.
Stay on the Trail
To help preserve the natural beauty of Colorado Springs, it’s important to stay on designated trails and avoid disturbing the surrounding environment.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
When hiking in Colorado Springs, it’s important to be prepared for emergencies.
Bring a first-aid kit, a map, and a charged cell phone with you, and let someone know your hiking plans and expected return time.
By following these pro-level tips, you can make the most of your hiking experience in Colorado Springs and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of this amazing city.
Getting to Colorado Springs and Planning Your Hikes
Colorado Springs is located in the south-central part of the state of Colorado, approximately 70 miles south of Denver and 50 miles west of Pueblo.
Towering peaks, including the Rocky Mountains to the west and the Palmer Divide to the east surround the city.
The best time to visit Colorado Springs is during the summer months when temperatures are mild and the landscape is lush and green.
During the winter months, the city can receive significant snowfall, making it a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding.
Getting to Colorado Springs
The city is well-connected by air, with the Colorado Springs Airport located just a few miles from the city center.
Visitors can fly into the airport and rent a car or take a shuttle to reach their destination.
The city is also well-connected by road, with highways leading to Denver, Pueblo, and other nearby cities.
Iconic Sites in Colorado Springs
Garden of the Gods Park
Garden of the Gods Park is a public park that features towering red rock formations and breathtaking vistas, making it a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, and sightseeing.
The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and coyotes, which may be spotted along the trails.
Pikes Peak
Pikes Peak is a towering mountain that offers some of the most breathtaking views in the state of Colorado.
Visitors can hike to the summit or take the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The mountain is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and bighorn sheep, which may be spotted along the trails.
Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, located just west of Colorado Springs.
The park features over 8 miles of trails, with stunning views of towering red rock formations and breathtaking vistas.
The park is also a popular destination for rock climbing, with a variety of routes for climbers of all skill levels.
Colorado Springs is a city rich in natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for those looking to explore the great outdoors.
From the towering peaks of Pikes Peak to the stunning rock formations of Red Rock Canyon Open Space, the city has something to offer everyone.
So why not plan a visit today and experience the beauty of Colorado Springs for yourself?
Conclusion
With its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, Colorado Springs is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for a challenging trek or just someone looking for a peaceful walk with breathtaking views, the area has something to offer everyone.
From the iconic Pikes Peak to the stunning rock formations of Red Rock Canyon Open Space, the area is home to some of the most scenic hiking trails in the state of Colorado.
So why not grab your hiking gear and hit the trails today?
