Cottonwood Creek Park is one of the largest community parks in northeast Colorado Springs, offering more than 70 acres of recreation and open space. This popular destination combines athletic facilities, playgrounds, trails, and wide open lawns, making it a hub for families, athletes, and anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors in the heart of the city.
Amenities and Recreation
The park features a wide variety of facilities, including:
Cottonwood Creek Recreation Center with an indoor pool, gymnasium, and fitness classes.
Sports fields for soccer, football, and baseball.
Tennis courts, basketball courts, and a skate park.
Playgrounds and picnic areas perfect for families.
Dog park where pups can run off-leash.
Trails and Natural Features
A paved section of the Cottonwood Creek Trail runs through the park, connecting to the larger Pikes Peak Greenway Trail system. The trail is popular with walkers, cyclists, and runners, offering a scenic corridor along the creek with mountain views to the west. Open fields and shady spots make it a great place to enjoy nature without leaving the city.
Location and Access
Address: 3920 Dublin Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80918
Parking: Multiple paved lots are available around the park and recreation center, with ADA-accessible spaces. Parking is free.
Hours: The park is open daily from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.; recreation center hours vary seasonally.
With its blend of recreation facilities, community events, and natural beauty, Cottonwood Creek Park is a top destination for families, athletes, and trail users in Colorado Springs.
Palmer Park
Palmer Park is one of Colorado Springs’ largest and most beloved urban parks, spanning more than 730 acres in the heart of the city. With rugged bluffs, panoramic overlooks, and miles of trails, the park feels like a wild escape just minutes from downtown.
Trails and Recreation
The park features over 25 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, running, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Popular routes like Yucca, Templeton, and Mesa Trails take visitors through sandstone formations, meadows, and forested ridges. The park also offers a dog park, playgrounds, and athletic fields, making it a favorite destination for families and outdoor adventurers alike.
Amenities and Features
Palmer Park is home to baseball and soccer fields, picnic shelters, restrooms, and wide-open spaces perfect for gatherings. The dog park is among the largest in the city, while Good Neighbors Meeting House (just outside the park) and nearby neighborhoods make it highly accessible. Overlooks such as Grandview Point provide sweeping views of Pikes Peak and the Front Range.
Wildlife & Scenery
From rugged sandstone spires to sweeping grasslands, Palmer Park offers an impressive variety of scenery. Visitors often spot mule deer, coyotes, rabbits, hawks, and songbirds while exploring the trails. Seasonal wildflowers add bursts of color in spring and summer, while the sandstone formations glow at sunrise and sunset.
History
Palmer Park was gifted to the city in 1902 by General William Jackson Palmer, the founder of Colorado Springs, as part of his vision to preserve natural lands for public enjoyment. For over a century, the park has served as both a community gathering space and a wilderness refuge within the city. Its size, history, and rugged beauty make it one of the crown jewels of Colorado Springs’ park system.
Plan Your Visit
Location: 3650 Maizeland Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80909 Hours: 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. daily Parking: Multiple lots located at trailheads, Grandview Overlook, and sports fields.
Woodmen Trail – Colorado Springs, CO
Woodmen Trail is a neighborhood focused urban trail in northern Colorado Springs that provides an important east west connection through the Briargate area. Following a powerline corridor, this paved trail offers a convenient option for walking, running, biking, and everyday recreation for nearby residents.
Trail Experience
Woodmen Trail is approximately 2.5 miles long and is constructed of smooth concrete. The trail runs east to west between Woodmen Road and Briargate Boulevard, beginning just west of Austin Bluffs Parkway and extending to just past Union Boulevard. Rolling hills along the corridor create noticeable elevation gain and loss, giving the trail a moderate rating despite its relatively short length.
The trail is popular with local users, is stroller friendly, and includes several benches along the route for resting and enjoying the surroundings. Wildflowers fill the fields around the trail in late summer.
Road Crossings and Safety
Users should expect a mix of neighborhood street crossings and larger roadway crossings along Woodmen Trail. Major crossings include Union Boulevard, Rangewood Drive, and Lexington Drive. The Union Boulevard crossing is accessed via the signalized intersection at Briargate Boulevard. Rangewood Drive includes a marked crosswalk, though vehicles may not consistently yield. Lexington Drive features a signalized pedestrian crossing.
Connections
Woodmen Trail transitions into Skyline Trail near the intersection of Briargate Boulevard and Union Boulevard, where the route shifts north. An unmarked connection to Briargate Trail occurs near Yellowwood Drive, allowing users to continue north. Multiple neighborhood access points are available along the length of the trail.
Management
Woodmen Trail is managed by the City of Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department. Phone: 719 385 5940
Templeton Gap Trail – Colorado Springs, CO
Templeton Gap Trail is an important east west multi use trail in central Colorado Springs that follows the Templeton Gap Floodway. The trail provides a key connection between neighborhoods, parks, open spaces, and several major trail corridors, making it a popular route for both recreation and transportation.
Trail Experience
Templeton Gap Trail is approximately 4 miles long and runs primarily east to west alongside the Templeton Gap Floodway. The trail begins near Mark Dabling Boulevard at the Goose Gossage Youth Sports Complex and continues west to Palmer Park, with a northern fork extending toward Union Meadows Open Space near Austin Bluffs Boulevard and Union Boulevard.
The trail surface is primarily concrete, with some sections of asphalt and gravel. Elevation changes are generally mild, though users should expect a few moderate hills along the route.
Road Crossings and Navigation
Templeton Gap Trail includes several street crossings, including a major crossing at North Nevada Avenue. A short discontinuity exists near North Hancock Avenue by Portal Park. The trail runs on both sides of the floodway; however, to pass under Union Boulevard near Hancock Avenue, it is recommended to remain on the south side of the floodway for a more continuous route.
Connections
Templeton Gap Trail connects directly to the Pikes Peak Greenway at Goose Gossage Youth Sports Complex. From this location, users can also access Sinton Trail to continue west. On the eastern end, the trail links to Austin Bluffs Trail near North Union Boulevard, providing access toward the University of Colorado Colorado Springs campus. Additional connections include Greencrest Trail into Palmer Park and easy access to Union Meadows Open Space.
Cottonwood Creek Trail – Colorado Springs, CO
Cottonwood Creek Trail is a major east west urban trail in northern Colorado Springs and a key connector within the city’s trail system. Following Cottonwood Creek, the trail links neighborhoods, parks, and regional trail corridors while providing a smooth and accessible route for everyday recreation and transportation.
Location: Northern Colorado Springs, following Cottonwood Creek from Powers Boulevard to the Pikes Peak Greenway near I 25
Trail Experience
Cottonwood Creek Trail is just over 6 miles long and features a smooth concrete surface throughout. The trail runs east to west along Cottonwood Creek, beginning near Frank Castello Park at Powers Boulevard and continuing west to connect with the Pikes Peak Greenway and Front Range Trail near I 25.
The trail is generally flat with gentle elevation changes, making it accessible for walkers, runners, cyclists, families, and users of mobility devices. The corridor offers a mix of riparian habitat, open space, and neighborhood views, with long straight segments that are well suited for longer outings or commuting. Benches, trail access points, and nearby amenities allow users to easily tailor trips to their preferred distance and pace.
A dirt trail alternative runs between Union Boulevard and Rangewood Drive, providing a more natural surface option and forming a pleasant 3 mile loop with convenient parking at Cottonwood Creek Community Park.
Road Crossings and Navigation
Cottonwood Creek Trail includes one major street crossing at Union Boulevard. Trail users should use the marked crosswalk at Woodland Hills Drive when crossing Union Boulevard. The trail passes alongside Frank Castello Park and includes a spur connection to Dublin Park; however, accessing Dublin Park requires crossing Dublin Boulevard, which currently does not have a designated pedestrian crossing.
Connections
Cottonwood Creek Trail connects directly to the Pikes Peak Greenway and Front Range Trail just south of the Woodmen Road and Rockrimmon Boulevard area. Multiple neighborhood access points provide easy connections to Cottonwood Creek Community Park, nearby residential areas, and the YMCA. The trail also links to Woodmen Trail and other local trail segments, strengthening north south and east west connectivity across northern Colorado Springs.
Skyline Trail – Colorado Springs, CO
Skyline Trail is a neighborhood focused urban trail in northern Colorado Springs that provides an important north south connection through the Briargate area. Often referred to locally as the Powerline Trail due to its alignment with overhead powerlines, Skyline Trail is well used by nearby residents for walking, running, and biking.
Skyline Trail is approximately 2 miles long and features a mix of wide concrete and dirt trail surfaces. South of Research Parkway, the trail is smooth concrete, while the segment north of Research Parkway transitions to a dirt surface. Rolling terrain creates noticeable elevation gain and loss, giving the trail a moderate difficulty rating.
The trail includes several distinctive switchbacks near Mirage Drive that offer views across the surrounding neighborhoods and open spaces. Despite its urban setting, the corridor provides a sense of separation from nearby roads and is popular for short neighborhood outings as well as longer connected trips.
Road Crossings and Navigation
Skyline Trail includes several street crossings and users should proceed with caution at all crosswalks. Major crossings occur at Briargate Boulevard and Research Parkway. When crossing Research Parkway, users should use the signalized intersection at Chapel Hills Drive for improved safety. Trail signage varies by segment, and awareness is recommended when navigating transitions between surfaces.
Connections
Skyline Trail transitions into Woodmen Trail at Briargate Boulevard, allowing users to continue east west through northern Colorado Springs. A spur trail provides access to Rampart Community Park, which includes a disc golf course, sports courts and fields, and a dog park. The trail passes near High Plains Elementary School and offers views of Reflection Pond, which can be accessed via sidewalks on Parliament Drive.
Sidewalk connections along Briargate Parkway allow access to John Venezia Community Park and the Briargate Trail. Multiple neighborhood access points along the route make Skyline Trail easy to reach from surrounding residential areas.
Skyline Trail plays an important role in connecting neighborhoods, parks, and trails across northern Colorado Springs while offering a moderately challenging route with varied terrain and strong local use.
Sinton Trail – Colorado Springs, CO
Sinton Trail is a scenic urban trail in central Colorado Springs that follows Douglas Creek and an adjacent drainage canal. The trail offers a peaceful corridor through an otherwise developed area, connecting major trail systems while providing opportunities to experience wildlife, seasonal color, and quiet open space close to the city.
Location: Central Colorado Springs, between Garden of the Gods Road and Mark Dabling Boulevard
Trail Experience
Sinton Trail is approximately 3 miles long and runs northwest to southeast between Garden of the Gods Road and Mark Dabling Boulevard, just north of the Goose Gossage Youth Sports Complex. The trail surface is primarily asphalt, with short sections of concrete and gravel. Elevation changes are gradual, with a gentle uphill grade when traveling west.
The trail is well suited for walking, running, and biking and is accessible to a wide range of users. One of the highlights of the trail is its proximity to water and riparian habitat, which supports birdwatching opportunities, particularly near Sinton Pond Open Space. Waterfowl, songbirds, and other wildlife are commonly observed in this area.
In autumn, mature cottonwoods and other trees along the corridor provide vibrant fall color, making Sinton Trail especially popular during the changing seasons. The combination of water, vegetation, and separation from traffic creates a calm and immersive trail experience.
Road Crossings and Navigation
Sinton Trail includes two at grade street crossings at North Chestnut Road and Holland Park Boulevard. The trail also passes under Centennial Boulevard via a narrow metal tunnel, which requires users to proceed with caution and be aware of oncoming traffic, particularly cyclists.
Connections
Sinton Trail connects directly to the Pikes Peak Greenway and Templeton Gap Trail, making it an important link within Colorado Springs’ urban trail network. With minimal use of sidewalks and local streets, users can also reach 30th Street to connect with the Foothills Trail and Garden of the Gods Park.
A short dirt path provides access to Sinton Pond Open Space, a 13 acre natural area that offers a quiet detour and additional wildlife viewing opportunities within a densely developed part of the city.
Sinton Trail serves as both a functional connector and a natural refuge, offering year round recreation, seasonal beauty, and access to some of Colorado Springs’ most popular trail corridors.
Shooks Run Trail – Colorado Springs, CO
Shooks Run Trail is a central Colorado Springs urban trail that follows Shooks Run Creek through historic neighborhoods, community spaces, and growing arts and garden corridors. The trail provides an easy, accessible route for walking, biking, and everyday recreation while connecting several key trail systems and local destinations.
Location: Central and southeast Colorado Springs, following Shooks Run Creek from Lilac Street to Fountain Boulevard
Trail Experience
Shooks Run Trail is approximately 4 miles long and runs north to south along Shooks Run Creek. The trail begins near Lilac Street and the Rock Island Trail in the north and continues south to Fountain Boulevard and South Shooks Run Park. The paved surface makes for an easy walk or ride, with a slight downhill grade when traveling south.
The trail is well suited for all ages and abilities, with benches and picnic tables placed along the route for rest and gathering. Shooks Run passes through residential areas and community focused spaces, creating a neighborhood oriented experience that blends everyday use with access to nature. Several street crossings occur along the trail, so users should proceed with awareness at intersections. Several parks can be found along or near the trail.
History and Character
One of the defining features of Shooks Run Trail is its connection to Colorado Springs’ early rail history. At the southern end of the trail, users pass through a historic rail underpass built in 1887, a reminder of the city’s industrial and transportation roots. Beyond the underpass, the trail reaches the Concrete Coyote property, owned and stewarded by Concrete Couch, which has become a hub for community creativity and placemaking.
Connections
Shooks Run Trail connects directly to the Rock Island Trail, expanding access to north south travel across the city. Sidewalks and neighborhood streets provide frequent access points along the route, making the trail easy to reach from surrounding homes and businesses.
With limited on street or sidewalk travel, users can connect to the Pikes Peak Greenway, further linking Shooks Run into the broader Front Range trail network. The trail also passes near Pikes Peak Urban Gardens and the Sustain a Center, where the Trails and Open Space Coalition office is located just off the corridor.
Shooks Run Trail plays an important role in connecting neighborhoods, supporting local community spaces, and strengthening the urban trail network in Colorado Springs. It is a trail built for everyday use, local connection, and continued investment in accessible outdoor spaces.
Sand Creek Trail – Colorado Springs, CO
Sand Creek Trail is an evolving multi segment trail system in Colorado Springs that follows Sand Creek through residential areas, parks, and open spaces. When complete, the trail will serve as an important east west and north south connector, linking neighborhoods to recreation facilities and the city’s larger trail network.
Location: Eastern and southeastern Colorado Springs, following Sand Creek from Woodmen Road to Airport Road
Trail Experience
Sand Creek Trail is currently made up of two primary segments that are not yet connected. Each segment is approximately 4 miles in length and offers a different trail experience depending on location and surface type.
The southern segment runs diagonally through southeast Colorado Springs, beginning near El Pomar Youth Sports Park and extending east toward Wildflower Park. From Wildflower Park, the main trail continues north of Airport Road, while the East Fork Sand Creek spur heads east and ends just before Powers Boulevard. This section is largely concrete and offers a mild, accessible route for walking and biking. Users should expect two major street crossings at Hancock Expressway and Chelton Road.
A short central section of Sand Creek Trail was constructed between Platte Avenue and Galley Road as part of the Patriot Park development, creating a partial link through the corridor.
The northern segment of the trail runs north south alongside Sand Creek between Woodmen Road and Barnes Road. This section features mostly hardpacked natural surface, with a concrete segment between Barnes Road and Stetson Hills Boulevard. The northern portion offers a more natural setting, with open views and access to nearby parks and open space.
Connections
Sand Creek Trail connects directly to the Pikes Peak Greenway at El Pomar Youth Sports Park, providing access to the larger Front Range trail system. The trail also offers convenient access to the Southeast Family Center YMCA and surrounding neighborhoods.
The northern segment connects to Stetson Park and Stetson Hills Open Space, expanding recreational opportunities and linking users to additional trail and open space experiences.
Sand Creek Trail represents a growing investment in trail connectivity for Colorado Springs. As additional segments are completed, it will continue to strengthen access to parks, neighborhoods, and regional trail corridors across the city.
Rock Island Trail – Colorado Springs, CO
The Rock Island Trail in Colorado Springs follows a historic railroad corridor through the heart of the city, providing an easy, accessible east west route that connects neighborhoods, parks, and major trail systems. Built along the former Rock Island Railroad bed, the trail reflects the city’s transportation history while serving modern recreation and commuting needs.
Location: Central Colorado Springs, running east west alongside Constitution Avenue from Weber Street to Powers Boulevard
Trail Experience
The Colorado Springs segment of the Rock Island Trail is approximately 6 miles long. It runs east west from Weber Street to Powers Boulevard, generally paralleling Constitution Avenue. The trail surface is a mix of concrete and asphalt, creating a smooth and accessible experience for walking, biking, and other non motorized uses.
The trail has a gentle grade, with a gradual uphill slope when traveling east. Several at grade street crossings occur along the route, so users should exercise caution at intersections. The corridor passes through residential areas and urban landscapes, offering a practical and well used route for everyday recreation and transportation.
Connections
Rock Island Trail connects directly to the Shooks Run Trail, creating a continuous north south and east west trail link through the city. With limited street or sidewalk travel, users can also connect to the Pikes Peak Greenway, Homestead Trail, and Palmer Park, making this trail an important part of Colorado Springs’ broader urban trail network.
