Hikes in Colorado Springs
There is no denying that Colorado Springs is an outdoor enthusiast’s haven. Nestled between the foothills of the Front Range and the Great Plains—the topographic contrast yields countless adventure opportunities. From hiking, biking, and horseback riding to climbing, white water rafting, and fishing, there is no shortage of epic experiences.
Enjoy the comforts of this active city, indulging in delicious gastronomy and sipping a cold beer after a long day of exploring the wilderness. Delivering both high energy and easy-going experiences, this region is ideal for eager explorers looking to condition themselves for a technical summit ascent in the Front Range or for those acclimatizing to the area’s altitude. With a myriad of adventures to choose from, there is an experience to satisfy every type of adventure traveler.
Famously distinguished by demanding vistas of America’s Mountain—Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs is also characterized by the Garden of the Gods, the Red Rock Canyon Park, the North Cheyenne Cañon Park, the Bear Creek Cañon Park, and Cheyenne Mountain State Park. Offering everything from enchanting forestland strolls to red rock scrambles, a visit to Colorado Springs is a must-add to your Colorado itinerary.
15 Awesome Hiking Routes in Colorado Springs
Whether you are seeking an arduous ascent or a relaxing forest walk, Colorado Springs offers a wide range of adventures! Wander through lush mixed pine forests, golden aspen groves, red rock canyons, or scale up waterfalls and craggy bluffs. With ample topographies to explore and scenery to admire, there are hiking routes suitable for all skill levels and ages. We took it upon ourselves to curate a list of the area’s 15 fantastic hikes that we think you may enjoy! Check it out:
- Manitou Incline Trail - The Manitou Incline Trail is an epic hike up the old Pikes Peak cable car route. The 2,768 steps up 600 m has proven to be one the most challenging ascent in the area. Demanding endurance, this popular hike up the Manitou Incline rewards conquerors with breathtaking vistas of the Front Range and the cityscape below.
- Rainbow Falls - Rainbow Falls is a family-friendly adventure to the west of the city. Bounded by looming orange-hued cliffs and a graffiti-decorated bridge, the scenery is unmatched. Short, sweet, and stunning, this walk is a wonderful weekend escape. Head out in the Spring when the cascades are bountiful.
- The Crags Trail - Explore the diversity of Colorado’s terrains as you venture The Crags Trail. This amazing hike travels through aspen glades, bristlecone pine forests, and up craggy granite bluffs. The Crags are a collection of unique outcroppings and spires that jut from the landscape, providing epic overlooks of the foothills.
- Paint Mines Trail - Travel to the plains and immerse yourself in the Paint Mines Trail. Suitable for hikers of all skill levels and ages, this trek can be enjoyed by the whole family. Adventure through the corridors etched into the plains which are geologically, archaeologically, and ecologically significant. This is a great day hike to escape the busyness of the city.
- Seven Bridges Trail - The Seven Bridges Trail is one of our favorite adventures. Hike through the North Cheyenne Canyon, traveling over seven charming log bridges above the running creek as you revel in the sighs of the bounding orange-hued cliffs.
- Helen Hunt Falls - Who doesn’t love a waterfall, right? The Helen Hunt Falls is a beautiful cascade surging over 30ft from North Cheyenne Creek. Explore the shores of the pool and have a picnic overlooking the mesmerizing cascades. Children and adults alike will be hypnotized by the waterfall and the looming bluffs from the bridge atop the falls.
- Pulpit Rock Trail - Conveniently located near the city’s center, the Pulpit Rock Trail is a great urban escape. Explore the luxuriant meadowlands decorated with unique spires, bluffs, and hoodoos. Easy-going and accessible, the park has a myriad of trails to trek, thus the hike can be easily customized to your liking. If you are feeling adventurous, climb up to the ridgeline for an awesome view of the city!
- Seven Falls to Inspiration Point - Seven Falls is the only cascade in the state to earn a spot on the National Geographic’s list of International Waterfalls. The Seven Falls to Inspiration Point might just be the most scenic adventure near Colorado Springs. Hike the ‘grandest mile of scenery” through the Pillars of Hercules and up 224 steps up to the top of the seven distinct cascades. Demanding stamina, the views from Inspiration point prove well worth the effort.
- Palmer Trail Section 16 - Immerse yourself in the wilderness and explore the diversity of the area’s flora and fauna along the Palmer Trail Section 16. Whether you are seeking a hike, bike, or trail run—this amazing route delivers. Travel through mixed pine forests, past red rock outcroppings and through wide creek canyons around this circuit.
- Garden of the Gods Loop - Exhibiting the best of what the Garden of the Gods has to offer, the loop trail is an epic family-friendly adventure. Explore the sandstone spires, hoodoos, and sculptures that adorn the landscape– there is no doubt as to why this site is a crowd favorite.
- Red Rock Canyon Loop - The corridors of the Red Rock Canyon prove to be fantastic hiking routes. Children and adults alike will enjoy the immense bluffs and outcroppings that line the paths. Rich with geological, and archeological significance, this park is well worth the detour!
- Mount Cutler Trail - Looming over the North Cheyenne Canyon, the Mount Cutler Trail is an awesome summit hike near Colorado Springs that reveals the stark contrast of Colorado’s topographies. From Front Range peaks, forested ravines, waterfalls to the Great Plains, the overlook at the peak delivers breathtaking views.
- Mount Muscoco Trail - Another great hike, the Mount Muscoco Trail sits next to Mount Cutler overlooking the Colorado wilderness. Though vertiginous in sections, this route can be ventured by intrepid children and novice explorers alike—just make sure to pack plenty of water!
- Columbine Trail - The Columbine Trail is an unassumingly picturesque adventure through the North Cheyenne Canyon. Bounded by red-hued cliffs, mixed pine forests and along a babbling creek, this trek will lull you into a state of relaxation. A popular trek near Colorado Springs, you will likely be in the company of several other outdoor enthusiasts also seeking tranquility.
- Stanley Canyon Trail - The Stanley Canyon Trail is an epic day-hike near the city. Located in the immediate west of the US Airforce Academy, this serrated canyon provides an up-close and personal view of the base on one side, and from the other– lush greenery, granite outcropping, and lively meadowlands.
When is the Best Time to Visit Colorado Springs?
The beauty of Colorado Springs is unparalleled. Boasting countless adventure travel possibilities, the charm of the area is that it can be explored year-round! Camping and hiking are popular activities all year, but the summer months are congested by tourists and locals alike enjoying the Colorado weather. Though often considered an annoyance, the busyness is a testament to the area’s beauty and plentiful adventure pursuits.
The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are less crowded, and in our opinion, arguably more scenic. The spring is lush and abundant with wildflowers, while autumn will see the rolling foothills cloaked by vibrant red and yellow foliage. The chilly weather will keep you cool while exploring the wilderness, not to mention accommodation rates are usually lower in the city! Winter expeditions in the area are more tranquil and secluded. The mild conditions warrant the perfect opportunity to get out into the fresh air, though it is important to note that some routes are subject to seasonal and sporadic closures in the winter months—including the road up to Pikes Peak.
Other Outdoor Activities in Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs is more than just a hiking destination. Though there are hundreds of amazing hiking routes to explore - over 603.5 km of trails to be exact - this area also offers a plethora of other outdoor activities. Whether you are an intrepid athlete or casual outdoor explorer, you will find an activity to satisfy your adventure craving.
The summertime warrants epic outdoor opportunities beyond hiking and camping. Though many head west out to the Front Range and Sawatch Mountains, there are plenty of opportunities near the city center. Mountain bike through the Bear Creek Cañon Park, white water raft down the Arkansas River, stand up paddleboard on the Rampart Reservoir, or rock climb in the Garden of the Gods– a good time awaits! The winters in Colorado Springs are mild, so many locals take advantage of cross country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, and skating. Just a step out your front door, adventure possibilities are boundless in the city.
Amazing Adventure Tours in Colorado
Sadly, we have yet to curate a Colorado Springs adventure package, but we are always working on adding new ones, so keep an eye out! Until then, check out our Colorado adventure tours or Rocky Mountain National Park hiking tour. If you are interested in planning a trip to the area and need some tips and tricks, feel free to reach out, we like to consider ourselves experts in the adventure travel realm!
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado Springs
What is Colorado Springs known for?
Located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs is known for its unique rock formations in the Garden of the Gods and Red Rock Canyon Park. Additionally, America’s Mountain—Pikes Peak dominates the skyline in the west, offering countless adventure opportunities, attracting locals and tourists alike!
How far are the mountains from Colorado Springs?
The Rocky Mountains are as short as a 30-minute drive west from Colorado Springs.
Is Pikes Peak visible from Colorado Springs?
Yes, Pikes Peak dominates the western skyline. Visible from almost anywhere in Colorado Springs, it is hard to miss!
Is Colorado Springs a good hiking destination?
Yes, Colorado Springs is an epic hiking destination that has trails suitable for explorers of all skill levels and ages!
What is the hardest hike in Colorado Springs?
There is an obvious consensus that the Manitou Incline Trail is the hardest hike in Colorado Springs. This demanding trek will undoubtedly put your endurance to the test as you climb the vertiginous 603 m incline.
Check Out Other Epic Hiking Destination in Colorado
Best Hikes in Colorado Springs
Columbine and Spring Creek Trail
Immerse yourself in the wilderness and revel in its beauty along the Columbine and Spring Creek Trail. This conveniently located hike provides the perfect excuse to head out into fresh air and get your heart pumping. Don’t forget to bring your camera—the stunning scenery warrants countless photo-ops.
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Contemplative and Sand Canyon Loop
The Contemplative and Sand Canyon Loop is a wonderful trail for reflection and relaxation. Wander through the Red Rock Canyon Open Space, a park decorated with amazing red-hued blades, bluffs, and sculptures, while taking the time to reconnect with nature. This short trek is a great de-stressor—trust us.
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Contemplative, Roundup, and Mesa Loop
The Contemplative, Roundup, and Mesa Loop is a relaxing stroll through the Red Rock Canyon Open Space. As you meander through the corridor of the looming red rock bluffs you will be rewarded with sights of the Front Range summits and a myriad of birds that soar above the park.
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Cougar’s Shadow and Blackmer Loop
The beauty in the Cheyenne Mountain State Park is revealed along the Cougar’s Shadow and Blackmer Loop. Located to the east of Cheyenne Mountain, this trek exhibits breathtaking vistas of the looming peak and the lush wilderness.
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Coyote Run Loop Trail
Immerse yourself in the diversity of the area’s flora and fauna along the Coyote Run Loop Trail. This family-friendly nature walk through the Cheyenne Mountain State Park exhibits epic mountain views as hikers wander through the lush meadowlands often littered with deer!
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Gateway and Scotsman Loop Trail
The Gateway and Scotsman Loop Trail is an amazing walk through the Garden of the Gods that reveals the best of what the park has to offer. Wander through the looming sandstone spires that decorate the park and revel in the beauty of the Front Range summits that line the horizon.
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Gateway and Susan G. Bretag Trail
The Gateway and Susan G. Bretag Trail is a wonderful nature walk around the perimeter and through the center of the Garden of the Gods. Enjoy sights of the immense sandstone outcrops that adorn the landscape before immersing yourself in the rock garden.
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Greenlee and Mesa Loop to the Off-Leash Dog Park
Do you have an active pup that needs to burn off some energy? The Greenlee and Mesa Loop to the Off-Leash Dog Park is a great route option in the Red Rock Canyon Open Space for hikers and pups alike that need to get out into the fresh air and get some exercise.
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Greenlee and Mesa Loop Trail
Explore the Greenlee and Mesa Loop Trail in the Red Rock Canyon Open Space. This hike delivers epic perspectives of the immense sandstone blades and bluffs that decorate the terrain. Revel in the grandeur of the rocks and distant views of the Front Range summits.
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Helen Hunt Falls Loop
The Helen Hunt Falls Loop is an awesome adventure that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Traveling through mixed pine forests, along creeks, and through corridors of granite spires, the trail to the waterfalls is just as scenic, if not more.
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High Arches and Ute Valley Park Loop
Escape the busyness of the city and reconnect with nature along the High Arches and Ute Valley Park Loop. This trek presents the perfect opportunity to get out into the fresh air as you venture through the white granite garden. We love this quick walk, and we know you will too!
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Kineo Mountain and Mount Buckhorn via Seven Bridges Trail
Immerse yourself in nature and let your anxieties melt away along the Kineo Mountain and Mount Buckhorn via Seven Bridges Trail. This epic excursion guides intrepid spirits through canyons, unmarked trails, lush forestlands and reveals jaw-dropping panoramas of Colorado Springs. This trek is a must-add to your adventure bucket list!
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Kinnickinnick Trail
The Kinnickinnick Trail is an awesome, family-friendly adventure in Palmer Park that will astonish you with its beauty. Travel through mixed pine forests decorated with impressive granite outcroppings. Whether you hike or bike, explorers of all skill levels and ages will enjoy this scenic route.
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MacNeil Trail
The MacNeil Hike is an epic adventure that wanders along the western slope of Cheyenne Mountain. Boasting breathtaking scenery and jaw-dropping views of the rolling foothills, this excursion packs a punch! The next time you find yourself in the Colorado Springs area, this trek is a must!
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Middle Columbine Trail
Immerse yourself in the stunning scenery of the North Cheyenne Canyon along the Middle Columbine Trail. This wonderful adventure guides explorers through the craggy red-hued canyon corridor, which is decorated with mixed pines and granite outcroppings.
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Mount Buckhorn via High Drive Trail
The Mount Buckhorn via High Drive Trail is an awesome half-day hike in Colorado Springs that will get your heart rate up without too much strenuous activity! Hike from the North Cheyenne Canyon up to Mount Buckhorn which reveals stunning vistas of the encompassing foothills.
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Pulpit Rock Peak Loop
Challenge both your navigational and climbing skills along the Pulpit Rock Peak Loop. This epic adventure near Colorado Springs city center reveals breathtaking views of the rock itself as well as jaw-dropping vistas of the cityscape and Pikes Peak from atop the bluff.
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Pulpit Rock Short Loop
The Pulpit Rocks Short Loop is a short but scenic meander through the Austin Bluffs Open Space. Wander through the lush meadowlands which expose jaw-dropping views of the craggy granite sculpture and distant sights of the rolling foothills.
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Pulpit Rock via Rockhurst Blvd Loop
The Pulpit Rock via Rockhurst Blvd Loop is a family-friendly hike near Colorado Springs’ city center! Wander through the lush meadowlands that expose epic views of the gigantic granite outcropping that accents the terrain!
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Red Rock Rim to Red Rock Canyon Hike
The Red Rock Rim to Red Rock Canyon Hike is a great route to experience what the Red Rock Canyon Open Space has to offer. Adventure through the sandstone bluffs decorated with lush vegetation while admiring distant panoramas of the Front Range’s snow-capped summits.