20 Fantastic Places for Hiking in Colorado Springs

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Looking for the best hiking in Colorado Springs?

One of my favorite parts of Colorado? Checking out some of the awesome hiking in Colorado Springs! There’s no question in my mind how this town has become an outdoor-lover’s haven–there are so many great options right nearby. Grab a coffee at one of the coffee shops in Colorado Springs, strap on your hiking boots, and hit the trails. You have a ton of choices!

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Incredible hiking in Colorado Springs you can’t miss out on

You’re going to have to check out some of the amazing hiking in Colorado Springs available!

1. Sand Canyon, Mesa, Greenlee, Red Rock Canyon Loop

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 5.4 Miles

Elevation gain: 882 feet

Sand Canyon, Mesa, Greenlee is one of the best hikes in Colorado Springs. This popular trail leads hikers around beautiful wildflowers. When hiking this trail, you’ll find views of red sandstone and lush green fields accented by ponds. 

This trail is easily accessible off Highway 24 in western Colorado Springs. There is a parking lot right at the trailhead entrance, making this hike easily accessible. Quite a few activities are available here, including rock climbing (with a permit), horseback riding, and mountain biking. You can even bring your furry friends here while hiking in Colorado Springs.

It’s best to head here as early as possible to avoid crowds on this trail–which means that you also get to check out some of the bars in Colorado Springs early too!

2. Garden of the Gods Park

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Length: 21 miles

Elevation gain: 777 feet

Garden of the Gods Park offers top Colorado Springs hikes and is one of the best things to do in Colorado Springs. These Colorado Springs trails range from easy to moderate, with a combined length of 21 miles. You can choose to hike a few different trails or opt for one longer trail, making this an excellent spot for hiking in Colorado Springs. Self-guided hiking tours are available, along with guided nature walks for those seeking more information on the park.

The Garden of the Gods Park offers views of differing terrain, from meadows to red rocks. Various wildlife, including bighorn sheep and whitetail deer, can be seen while exploring the trails.  Keep an eye out for large puddles after rains; they make for excellent reflective photo opportunities.

3. Mount Cutler Trail

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 1.7 miles

Elevation gain: 472 feet

Mount Cutler Trails is one of the best hikes near Colorado Springs due to the incredible views offered during the quick trek. This 1.7-mile out and back trail is perfect for those of all experience levels. 

This is another hiking trail that gets congested later in the day, so it’s best to head here early in the morning. If you get here before sunrise, you’ll get to see the lovely golden light highlight the red rocks and peaks. The end of the trail overlooks the stunning Seven Falls near downtown Colorado Springs.

If you do arrive later in the day, there are multiple picnic areas before and after the trail that you can stop at for lunch or dinner. Those who want to enjoy a longer hike can add on the Helen Hunt Falls hike.

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4. Palmer Trail (Section 16)

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 5.7 miles

Elevation gain: 1,292 feet

This 5.7-mile loop is one of the top hikes near Colorado Springs. You’ll want to start at the Gold Camp Road Trailhead and head counterclockwise along the trail for the best views of the valley. This trail has many sections that branch off, so it’s best to bring a well-marked map along to avoid any confusion. Just under two miles into the hike, a rocky section appears that may be tricky for some.

This area does offer excellent views of the mountain valley. Keep an eye out for a beautiful waterfall visible from the path in the summertime.

5. Manitou Incline

Difficulty: Hard

Length: 4 miles

Elevation gain: 1,978 feet

Manitou Incline is one of the most revered Colorado Springs hiking courses. This trail was initially a cog railway and includes 2,744 steps to get to the top of Manitou Mountain. It’s best to try this trail if you’re an advanced hiker, as it has a 2,000-foot change in elevation. 

At the top of the mountain, there are beautiful panoramic views of the lush forestry. There are a few different bailout points along the stairway if the trek gets too tiring. Otherwise, take the Barr Trail to get back down, as it’s too dangerous to hike down the steps. From the Barr Trail, you can take a separate trail to see the peak of Pikes Peak. Or, enjoy a brew at Manitou Brewery.

6. Mount Muscoco Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 4 miles

Elevation gain: 1,129 feet

Mount Muscoco Trail is a great spot for hiking in Colorado Springs. It has straightforward signs and markings, making it easy to stay on the trail. This is one of the hikes in Colorado Springs, which offers both views of the mountains and the springs as you follow the out-and-back trail. You’ll also be able to see North Cheyenne Creek as this trail is in North Cheyenne Mountain Park. 

Start at the Mount Muscoco and Mount Cutler Trailhead, then follow Mount Cutler Trail until reaching the Mount Muscoco Trail. As some areas have gravel, it’s best to wear hiking boots and bring hiking poles if available. Avoid hiking this trail in winter unless you are comfortable trekking on ice.

7. Ute Valley Park Loop Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 3.8 miles

Elevation gain: 416 feet

Give Ute Valley Park Loop Trail a try if you’re looking for hiking trails in Colorado Springs that offer views of wildflowers, Ponderosa Pine, and Pikes Peak. Keep an eye out for the Laramie Foundation, an archway made of sandstone and rock formations. Both summer and winter offer stunning views, especially at the top of the overlook. Here, you can look down at the city with a sweeping mountain landscape in the background. This trail offers a portable toilet right at the entrance and a smaller parking lot.

If you’re looking to extend your hiking length in Colorado Springs, there are about 20 small trails within Ute Valley Park that are excellent for exploring. Or, drive a few hours and head to the Rocky Mountains for additional hiking and biking trails.

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8. Helen Hunt Falls

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 0.1 miles

Elevation gain: 19 feet

Helen Hunt Falls trail is short and sweet–it’s a 0.1-mile out and back trek leading to Helen Hunt Falls. These stunning falls are named after Helen Hunt Jackson, a famous author, and social advocate. 

Along the route, there’s also a peaceful stream of relaxing by. This is one of the best Colorado Springs hiking trails for kids and the elderly. Mount Cutler Trail is an excellent add-on if you want to extend the hike. 

In the summer, there is also a visitor’s center near the start of the trail. Those that wish to learn more about the area and what wildlife is available can check in here.

9. Templeton Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 3.9 miles

Elevation gain: 232 feet

Templeton Trail is found in Palmer Park, one of the biggest parks in Colorado Springs. Beyond hiking trails, there is a dog park, a horse stable, and picnic areas. Begin the Templeton Trail at the Yucca Flats Trailhead; this is also where the trail ends. 

You’ll find beautiful views of rocky formations and the Yucca Flats along the trail. There are more rugged/rocky areas, so it’s best to hike this trail with hiking boots instead of sneakers.

Overall, this trail offers one of the best hikes around Colorado Springs for its beautiful views and varied terrain.  Head here early in the morning to avoid getting too much sun, as there are not many shady spots along the trail. 

10. Red Rock Rim Trail to Palmer Trail to Greenlee Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 5.4 miles

Elevation gain: 849 feet

This is one of the best trails in Colorado Springs for views of red rock formations. This trail offers varied terrain and interesting sights as you make your way through forests, plains, and up rock stairs. 

Use a map on this trail, as some sections are not as well-marked. This is a moderately busy path, so arrive as early as possible if you want to avoid crowds. On the trail, keep an eye out for wildflowers and wildlife in the area.

There’s also a waterfall which runs in the summertime. As a note, there’s not a water source near this trail, so it’s best to bring extra water, especially if you’re hiking with your dog.

11. Palmer Trail to Siamese Twins

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 1.5 miles

Elevation gain: 147 feet

You’ll find this trail in the Garden of Gods Park, which leads to the famous Siamese Twins rock formation. Enter the Palmer Trail from the Central Garden or anywhere on the garden drive. This stacked formation offers a small hole through the middle, which you can peer through for excellent views of Pikes Peak and the nearby foothills. 

The trail begins with a slight descent through Pinon and Juniper trees. As you near the Siamese Twins formation, the trail ascends. You’ll still be able to see Pikes Peak from this section of the trail. However, something about seeing this area by peeking through a rock formation makes it even more special. 

If you’re hiking the trail later in the day, you’ll find a decent amount of shade on the way back. This is a perfect area to take a water or snack break. 

12. Stanley Canyon Trail

Difficulty: Hard

Length: 5.8 miles

Elevation gain: 1,702 feet

This trail is one of the more difficult Colorado Springs treks. This hike incorporates a steep incline and some rocky areas to climb over. The first few miles of the hike are especially challenging. Once past this area, the trail opens up into a stunning meadow area with plenty of wildflowers to look at.

The second section of this trail follows a pretty stream that you will follow to the midway point. Beautiful views of rock formations in the canyon can be found along this section.

This trail leads up to the Stanley Canyon Reservoir, a lovely area to enjoy views of the lush greenery surrounding the reservoir.

13. Loud’s Cabin

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 6.2 miles

Elevation gain: 1,778 feet

Loud’s Cabin is situated in North Cheyenne Canon Park. It’s a historic cabin that dates back to 1902. Frank Loud, a mathematician with many interesting connections, including Nikola Tesla and Melville Dewey, built this cabin. Upon arriving at the homestead, you’ll see remnants of the original walls and a large section of the fireplace left. 

The trail to reach Loud’s Cabin passes through the Seven Bridges and offers beautiful views of waterfalls along the way. Sections of the trail weave through forested areas, while other sections open up for views of the surrounding mountains. You’ll want to add this to your list of hiking near Colorado Springs, CO locations.

14. Mount Rosa Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 6.9 miles

Elevation gain: 1,775 feet

Mount Rosa Trail is one of the best hiking trails near Colorado Springs for viewing multiple peaks, including Pikes Peak. You’ll also be able to view Almagre Mountain during the trek. The end goal of this trail is to reach the peak of Mount Rosa, shaped like a witch’s hat. 

Start at Frosty Park, a large valley that sits west of the Mountain, and make your way up the trail for epic panoramic views. This mountain is named after Rose Kingsley, a hiking enthusiast in the late 1800s. 

Hiking in Colorado Springs is only part of the experience at Mount Rosa Trail. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from the main highway, offering exceptional views along the way. Make sure to bring a camera and plan some extra time for photography stops.

15. Kineo Mountain Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 6.5 miles

Elevation gain: 1,961 feet

Kineo Mountain Trail sits in North Cheyenne Cañon Park. You’ll need to travel through the Seven Bridges Trail as part of this trek. Plenty of cascading waterfalls sits on either side of the trail as you make your way up Kineo Mountain. 

This is another trail that you will want to utilize hiking boots as the last section gets pretty steep. As you hike, you’ll find beautiful views of the forest and rock formations. At the summit, enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks.

Heading to Kineo Mountain Trail after 12 pm is a gamble as parking spots fill up fast. If you can arrive at sunrise, you’ll find these trails in Colorado Springs empty and ready to explore.

16. Seven Falls to Inspiration Point

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 3 miles

Elevation gain: 770 feet

Seven Falls is one of the best places to hike in Colorado Springs as it offers a well-paved path to stunning waterfalls. Here, you’ll also find a restaurant, information areas, and bathrooms to stop at before or after the hike. You can ascend a large staircase that leads to the top of the falls for incredible views. From there, hikers can continue on to Inspiration Point for a stunning overlook of the area.

Visitors can take a shuttle from Broadmoor or the Penrose Event Center to get to the trail. Some hiking in Colorado Springs requires a fee for entry; expect to pay $16 per adult when heading here.

17. Silver Cascade Falls Trail

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 0.6 miles

Elevation gain: 298 feet

If you’re looking for hiking in Colorado Springs that offers an easy trek for beginners, try the Silver Cascade Falls Trail. This trail incorporates a few switchbacks as you travel up the side of the hill.

The Silver Cascade Falls Trail begins at the Helen Hunt Falls and extends over them. Once you cross over a bridge, you’ll reach the final overlook. The falls may be substantial or a small trickle, depending on the weather. Bear in mind; the trek is mainly stairs that ascend, so it may not be appropriate for all hikers.

18. Captain Jacks Peak

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 4.9 miles

Elevation gain: 1,102 feet

You’ll want to add Captain Jacks Peak to places to hike in Colorado Springs. This out and back trail features plenty of wildlife and unique rock formations along the pathway. Once you arrive near the top of the peak, expect to go off-trail for about 100 feet to reach the peak. While this section may be more challenging, it’s worth the views at the top.

You can see Specimen Rock, Tenney Crags, Mount Arthur, and Mount Almagre. If you visit in the winter, there may be some slick spots due to the snow. If it’s too snowy at the top, you may need to skip the last section that takes you to the peak though you’ll still find stunning views here while hiking in Colorado Springs.

19. Intemann Trail Loop

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 2.3 miles

Elevation gain: 446 feet

Intemann Trail Loop offers some of the best hiking in Colorado Springs, as you’ll find an array of terrain here and pretty views. Keep an eye out for roots jutting out of the dirt pathway, along with rocks. 

This trail links Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs together. It’s also the connecting trail for Section 16 and Bear Creek Regional Park. As you reach the back of the trail, you’ll find stunning views of the mountains along with interesting rock formations. 

While the trail is not long, there are some steep sections to be wary of. However, if hikers want to stay longer, other connecting trails like Parallel Trail or Red Rock Loop are available.

20. Middle Columbine Trail

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 5.3 miles

Elevation gain: 1,272 feet

Middle Columbine Trail sits a short distance away from Colorado Springs, making for an excellent getaway from the city. The majority of this hike is through a pretty forested area. There are three trailheads available to start at when hiking Middle Columbine Trail – lower, middle, and upper.

As far as trails near Colorado Springs, Middle Columbine Trail is the best for views of Cheyenne Cañon. You can expect a gravel pathway from start to finish when hiking this trail, so it’s best to wear hiking boots with ankle support. Keep an eye out for bears and other wildlife while spending time here hiking in Colorado springs.

Where to stay for hiking in Colorado Springs

Here are some recommended places to stay in Colorado Springs that will give you easy access to most of the trails. I highly recommend these for hikers!

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⭐BEST FOR BUDGET TRAVELERS: SCP COLORADO SPRINGS HOTEL⭐

⭐BEST FOR COUPLES: MCM ELEGANTE SUITES⭐

⭐BEST FOR FAMILIES: QUALITY INN AND SUITES GARDEN OF THE GODS⭐

⭐BEST FOR INSTAGRAM: THE MINING EXCHANGE⭐

⭐BEST FOR ADVENTURERS: BEST WESTERN PLUS PEAK VISTA INN & SUITES⭐

⭐BEST AIRBNB: ROMANTIC GETAWAY BASE OF THE MOUNTAINS⭐ [/vc_cta][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Tips for Colorado Springs hikes

Here are some recommended tips to help you make the most of your time on the trails near Colorado Springs.

• Choose the right trail for your skill level: The area around Colorado Springs offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. Garden of the Gods is perfect for beginners, while the Barr Trail to Pikes Peak can be quite demanding. Research the trails beforehand to find the right fit for your experience and fitness level.
• Prepare for the altitude: Colorado Springs is located at a high elevation, so take precautions to prevent altitude sickness. Stay hydrated, take it slow if you’re new to higher elevations, and consider spending a day or two in the area to acclimate before tackling a strenuous hike.
• Respect the local wildlife: Colorado Springs is home to a variety of wildlife like deer, bears, and mountain lions. Keep a safe distance, don’t feed the animals, and know what to do if you encounter larger wildlife. Carry bear spray if you’re hiking in bear country.
• Follow Leave No Trace Principles: Help preserve the natural beauty of Colorado Springs by following Leave No Trace principles. This includes packing out all trash, staying on designated trails, and not picking plants or disturbing wildlife.
• Be Prepared for rapid weather changes: The weather in the mountains can change quickly. Check the local forecast before you head out and bring layers, sun protection, and rain gear to be prepared for various weather conditions. Having a well-stocked emergency kit in your backpack is also essential for safety.

Conclusion: hiking in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs has hikes for everyone, whether you’re looking for a simple walk or a tough mountain climb. With its variety of trails, it’s a must-visit spot for anyone interested in exploring the outdoors. Don’t miss the chance to check out these trails; they offer a unique opportunity to experience some of the best natural scenery in the region.

There are so many different options available for  Have you ever gone hiking in Colorado Springs? Let me know your favorite hike in the comments!

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