Activity: Rock Climbing (permit required)

Red Rock Canyon Open Space

Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a 1,470-acre city preserve on the west side of Colorado Springs, showcasing tilted red-sandstone hogbacks, former quarry walls, and big views toward Pikes Peak. A network of multi-use trails winds through canyons, mesas, and reclaimed quarry benches, making it a favorite for hikers, runners, cyclists, climbers, and dog owners.

Trails and Recreation

More than 15 miles of natural-surface trails link canyon floors to mesa-top overlooks and connect south to the Intemann Trail and Manitou’s trail system. Signature routes include Red Rock Canyon, Mesa, Greenlee, Sand Canyon, and Roundup—easy to moderate loops you can mix and match. A designated freeride/skills area offers bike features from beginner to advanced. Rock climbing is allowed on established routes (free annual City permit required); always check for any seasonal closures.

Amenities and Features

You’ll find restrooms, trail maps, and multiple parking areas at the main entrance. Two signed off-leash dog loops (Upper and Lower) give pups room to roam; elsewhere, dogs must be leashed. Picnic spots are tucked along the lower trails, and wayfinding is posted at major junctions.

Wildlife & Scenery

Expect classic Front Range scenery—red walls, juniper and piñon on sunny slopes, and cottonwoods along the drainages. Mule deer, foxes, raptors, and a wide variety of songbirds frequent the open space. Sunrise and sunset light the sandstone and quarry faces in deep oranges and reds—prime time for photos.

History

For more than a century, these canyons supported sandstone quarries, gravel pits, and other industry. The City purchased the property in 2003 using TOPS (Trails, Open Space and Parks) funds, opened it to the public in 2004, and later expanded it with adjacent parcels like White Acres. Today’s trails follow old quarry roads and bench cuts, turning a once-industrial landscape into a premier urban open space.

Plan Your Visit

Location: Main entrance at 3550 W High St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904 (access via S 31st St off US-24)
Hours: Generally 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. (seasonal gate hours may vary)
Parking: Primary lots at the W High St entrance; additional small lots serve southern access points
Know Before You Go: Stay on designated trails to protect fragile soils; observe posted climbing rules and any wildlife closures; off-leash only in the signed dog loops.

Garden of the Gods Park

Garden of the Gods Park is Colorado Springs’ crown jewel—a National Natural Landmark known worldwide for its towering red sandstone formations framed by Pikes Peak. With awe-inspiring geology, rich cultural history, and miles of trails, it is one of the most visited parks in the state and a must-see for residents and visitors alike.

Trails & Recreation

Garden of the Gods offers more than 21 miles of trails for hiking, running, biking, and horseback riding. The Perkins Central Garden Trail is a family-friendly, paved 1.5-mile loop with spectacular views of the park’s signature formations. Mountain bikers and equestrians can explore designated multi-use routes, while technical climbers come from around the globe to scale the sandstone spires (permit required).

Wildlife & Scenery

Mule deer, bighorn sheep, and red-tailed hawks are frequently seen among the towering rock formations. The park is also one of the best places to capture sunrise or sunset photography, when the sandstone glows against the backdrop of Pikes Peak and the Front Range.

History

The park’s striking formations began forming more than 300 million years ago, later uplifted and sculpted into their current dramatic shapes. In 1909, Charles Elliott Perkins’ children honored his wishes to donate the land to the City of Colorado Springs, ensuring that the park would remain “free to the world.” Today, Garden of the Gods continues to inspire millions each year with its blend of geology, history, and natural beauty.

Plan Your Visit

Location: 1805 N. 30th Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Hours: Open daily, 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. (summer) and 5:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. (winter)
Parking & Access: Multiple lots are available throughout the park. The Visitor & Nature Center, located across from the main entrance, offers free exhibits, maps, and educational programs.
Tips: Arrive early to beat crowds, especially on weekends. Dogs are welcome on leash, and rock climbing requires registration and proper gear.  Stop at the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center to see maps, interpretive displays, use the restrooms and grab food & souvenirs.
More Information: https://gardenofgods.com/

With its dramatic landscapes, deep cultural roots, and abundant recreational opportunities, Garden of the Gods Park is a one-of-a-kind outdoor treasure in the Pikes Peak region.

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